William "Bill" Smith

1949 - 2026

William (Bill) Covert Smith, 76, of Greensboro, NC, passed away on March 22, 2026. Born in Chatham County, he was the son of Prentice Lane and Lois Covert Smith and was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Charles and Thomas Smith.

Bill worked in electronics technology and communications, including roles at Bell Labs, Micro Computer Systems, and BellSouth. He was also a former deacon and treasurer at Riverside Baptist Church in Burlington.

A lifelong learner with a remarkable memory, Bill was known for his gentle personality and deep love for his family. He especially treasured the eleven years he spent caring for his granddaughter, McKinley "Kinny" Oakes, every Friday without fail.

He is survived by his children, Greg Smith (Amy Starke) of Raleigh and Jann Oakes (John "Monk" Oakes) of Greensboro; granddaughter, McKinley Oakes; sisters, Anne and Mary Smith of Siler City; and nieces, Jennifer Harris (Scott) and Kim Dumke, and her son Logan.

A graveside service will be held at Chatham Memorial Park, Siler City, on Saturday, March 28th at 2:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to VoteSaveAmerica or the Cancer Research Institute.

Smith & Buckner Funeral Home will be assisting the Smith family.

Online condolences can be made at www.smithbucknerfh.com