William Smith

I met Smitty when I was 7 years-old.

I met him when he was to be married to Marcia. I had never met anyone quite like Smitty before. He carried a self assurance with him that immediately was striking. He was neither boastful nor retiring, he loved meeting his new relatives and had a natural curiosity about the lives of his new cousins, aunts, and other relatives.

I had never met anyone who shared their faith so openly as Smitty.

Through his actions and loving demeanor, Smitty taught us that being a Baha´i was a privilege and an honor. He tirelessly taught his faith throughout his life, always seeking new ways to spread the faith he loved so dearly. Smitty met many people, faith leaders, presidents, people from many different backgrounds. He made an impression on all of them. More than anything, he wanted people to hear the message of love he so reassuringly offered.

Smitty loved sports. He had a competitive nature and it showed up in our backyards. No one liked our annual egg hunts more than Smitty!

He was quick to smile and I loved hearing his deep silly laugh that filled whatever room he was in.

Children and education were a huge influence in his life. Being an educator seemed so natural to Smitty. For me personally, he taught me not to be discouraged when things did not go my way, but taught me to keep thinking about how to shape the future. He firmly believed that tests come and go, and the lessons we learned always left us with valuable insight.

Marcia, the love of his life. Proud of her many talents, thrilled to spend time with her whether in the sands of the Cape, the cosy home they have made in Sudbury, or the shadow of Mt. Tom. Caeli, you made Smitty a father. He could not have been prouder of you! Lewis and Bevin, Jillian, and all his grandchildren, it was apparent the love he felt for each of you. God bless you and keep you during this difficult time.

I was fortunate to meet Smitty in 2016 when I became President of Wheelock College, where Smitty led the National Center for Race Amity. He was a shining light managing a Center with values that reflected the values of our college. Annually he would host a big event featuring dignitaries who had contributed to Race Amity nationally and regionally. I was fortunate enough to participate in two of those events and to see Smitty at his very best. Nothing made me feel more welcome at Wheelock College than one of Smitty's hugs and a conversation about his work, about which he was very passionate. I will miss him.

I was ten years old and he came around with my cousin, Marcia Loomis Smith. He immediately fit in and the rest is history.
He taught me how to scale a fish and how to properly fly a kite. He loved Italian cookies and I did my best to have them for him on every holiday. An extraordinary man. I am honored that he was snd will forever be a part of my family.