William H. Smith

William H. Smith

November 26, 1992 - August 16, 2023

In Loving Memory of William "Bill" Herbert Smith (1922 - 2023) William Herbert Smith peacefully passed away on August 16, 2023, at the age of 100. Born on November 26, 1922 in Buffalo, New York. Bill was a cherished husband of 55 years to Anna Catherine (Kraft) (d. 2000). He was also revered by his community. He brought joy and laughter while always presenting with a calming force wherever he went. Though we bid him farewell, his spirit will forever truck on in our hearts. Bill was a man "par excellence". His close-knit family brought him immense joy and pride. The community gravitated to his wit, humor and dedication to perfection. He will be forever missed by his adoring eight children, 16 grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. William (d. 2006) and Sandi (Jennifer Holland, Sherri Rushford {Madeline, Jack} , Kelly Brown, William and Megan {Emma}), Paul and Joan (Alicia, Allison), Pamela and Peter Flax (Daniel, Nicholas), Patricia and Thomas Scott (Robert, Alycia, Rebecca {Matthew, Krystiana} and Thomas), Daniel, Barbara and Alan Mudie (Katie {Sawyer, Viola}, Christine and Jordon Lyons), Beverly and Kevin O'Connor (Breanna, Keri and Virgil Neely), and Gary. The family will muster fond memories of his jokes, advice, and his contagious zest for life. He will tell you "The proof is in the pudding" everytime. William's parents William and Jeannette and his siblings Beatrice Long, Wendell, Richard, and Clifford watch over and guide us from above. Bill joined the United States Army during World War II, showing off his strategic skills and bravery by paratrooping behind enemy lines on the night preceding the Normandy Invasion. He was a member of the 101st Airborne Division known as the "Screaming Eagles". Not content with just one branch of the military, Bill decided to take to the seas during the Korean War and navigate the waves as a sailor in the United States Navy. He made every commander beam with pride and dispersed humor amongst comrades. In his military career, Bill, a true Army "driver extraordinaire!" After answering his country's honorable call, Bill embarked on a career rivaling all others. With grit and determination, he donned his trucker's cap and traversed across the open roads with his company 'William H. Smith Trucking". "The Silver Fox", with each mile navigated, shared tales of assisting motorists in need, managing inclement weather and delivery of a few hitchhikers along the way. His unwavering work ethic, professionalism and expertise shone through as he delivered goods efficiently and reliably. Bill's adventurous spirit wasn't limited to just highways and byways but was deeply devoted to his community as a volunteer fireman with the Clarence Fire Company and Clarence Fire District No. 1 for over 50 years. It was represented by achieving "Most Calls Made" many years running. He was also the fire company's biggest cheerleader during their softball games, donning a personalized megaphone. He was also a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Akron Masonic Lodge and American Legion. Bill's bravery and selflessness were evident as he proudly served, protecting, and relishing the opportunity to aid his neighbors during times of need. A Celebration of Life to honor Bill will be held Saturday, November 4, 2023 at the Clarence Fire Hall 10355 Main Street Clarence from 1 - 4 pm. Contributions can be made to Buffalo Hospice, who provided excellent care to William and were there to support the family during William's end of life care. As we live to the beat of life without him, we celebrate his undoubtedly unique spirit, for he was truly one in a million. Funny, feisty and a true force of nature, Bill's towering presence will be missed but never forgotten. Bill, your wit, humor, and zest for life will forever remain in our hearts. May your final adventure be filled with endless joy and laughter. Keep on truckin' Dad!