William "Bill" Kallister Smith passed away peacefully at his home on December 18, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was 84 years old.
Bill was born on March 12, 1941, in Peoria, Illinois, the son of William and Margaret Smith. Bill spent his early years in Peoria, attending Bradley University, before his career brought him and his family to Maryland. He lived in Baltimore, Maryland, for 51 years, a place he proudly called home.
A perfectionist who thrived on meaningful work and leadership, Bill spent over 50 years between two very different careers. Hurst Roche Engineers is where he served over 30 years, working on highly visible projects throughout the state and rising to the office of President. While his engineering career was a tremendous source of pride, it was the game of golf that was his passion and became his second career.
An avid golfer, Bill served the Maryland State Golf Association for over 35 years with unwavering commitment and passion, ultimately serving as Executive Director for nearly 20 years. His leadership left a lasting impact on amateur golf throughout the state. In recognition of his extraordinary service, Bill was inducted into the Maryland State Golf Hall of Fame in 2024.
Golf not only created hundreds of relationships and meaningful friendships, it also allowed him to travel to many of the shrines of the sport, and to add the title of author to his list of accomplishments.
In his spare time, Bill was also a talented artist who found peace and expression through painting. His artwork reflected the same patience, creativity, and attention to detail that defined his life.
Bill shared over 60 years of marriage with his devoted wife, Sharon, a partnership rooted in love, loyalty, and steadfast support. He loved his family deeply and was always devoted to their well-being.
In addition to Sharon, he is survived by his daughter Angie and her husband Jim; his son Bill and his wife Kathy; and his cherished grandchildren, Ben, Maddie, Charlie, and Molly.
A memorial service will be held on January 2, 2026 at 11:00 am, at Hunt Valley Church, 13015 Beaver Dam Road, Hunt Valley, Maryland 21030. A reception will follow at Mercy Ridge, 2525 Pot Spring Road, Timonium, Maryland 21093.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Youth on Course, an organization close to Bill's heart, at https://youthoncourse.org/donate.
Bill will be remembered for his quiet strength, integrity, creativity, and deep devotion to family, work, and the passions that brought meaning to his life. His legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
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