William David "Bill" SMITH

William David "Bill" Smith passed peacefully from this life on Friday, February 10, 2023, in Sarnia, Ontario. Bill was born on December 8, 1941, in Toronto, Ontario to Henry Dorr Smith of Cooperstown, New York and Regina Thackeray of Roseneath, Ontario. He was raised to adulthood in a loving home by his maternal grandparents Roley Thackeray and May Hull at the Thackeray farm near Roseneath, Ontario.

Bill was predeceased by Donna Harrison, his wonderful wife of 48 years, in 2012. He is survived by his son Roland Smith, daughter Rachael Barnaby (Craig) and William Smith Jr. (Luanne). Also survived by 8 grandchildren Roley Smith, Bradley Smith, Nicholas Smith, Arielle Smith, Ethen Smith, Jayce Barnaby, Halle Smith, Darcy Barnaby and a great-granddaughter Morgan Smith, all of whom he was proud of and loved dearly.

Bill was employed by Ontario Hydro at BNPD for close to 29 years. He served his community for several years as president and treasurer of South-Port Optimist Club. He was also a proud recipient of a Lifetime Membership in Optimist International. He also served on board of directors for 6 years and as president for 2 years of Saugeen Golf Club. Bill was always the first to reach out to help others when in need. He was an amazing genealogist who took great pride in his attention to detail. His impeccable research skills allowed him to help many individuals connect the dots of their family roots. This included helping several people find their birth parents and family history after adoption, for which he was especially proud of.

Bill's ashes will be interred beside his beloved wife in Centenary Cemetery that was started by his pioneer 3rd great-grandfather, William Thackeray, on the family farm near Roseneath. Cremation has taken place. In keeping with William's wishes, no services will be held. A small family service will take place later this spring when his remains are interred.

The family would like to thank the many friends and relatives for their thoughts and support. Additional thank you to Dr. J. Ho (London Health Sciences) and Dr. O. MacSweeney (Palliative Care). Very special heart felt thank you to NP Willi Kirenko for her incredible kindness and compassion. She was comforting to Bill and the family. We are very thankful to her in so many ways.

Sympathy may be expressed through donations to St. Joseph's Hospice or the Inn of the Good Shepherd (cheques only at the funeral home please). Arrangements entrusted to Smith Funeral Home, 1576 London Line, Sarnia. Memories and condolences may be sent online at www.smithfuneralhome.ca