Clarence William "Bill" Smith

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Clarence William "Bill" Smith, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, who departed this world on December 4, 2025, at the age of 89. Bill was born on February 13, 1936, in Cleveland, Ohio, to Earl Smith and Helen Smith. He lived a full and vibrant life, embodying the virtues of dedication, love, and laughter.

Bill was preceded in death by his cherished daughter, Michelle Smith, and his siblings: twin brother, Edward Smith, brothers Donald and Earl Smith, as well as sisters Marcella (Ferraro) Smith, Mary Elizabeth "Betty" (Molnar) Smith, Marge (Carlin) Smith, and Evelyn Krinsky. While their absence leaves a void in the hearts of family and friends, the legacy of Bill's love and laughter will remain forever vivid.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 63 years, Margaret "Dolly" Smith, whom he wed on November 3, 1962, in Willoughby, Ohio. Together they built a life rich in love and companionship. Bill was proud of his son, Michael Smith, and daughter-in-law, Joelle, and he cherished the time spent with his grandchildren: Madeline Smith, Julia (Johnson) Smith and her husband, Cole, Grace Smith, Audrey Smith, and Connor Smith, as well as his great-grandchild, Hudson (Johnson). Bill also leaves behind a supportive nephew, Donald Smith, and his beloved dog, Lucy, who remained steadfast by his side till the end.

A proud 1954 graduate of West Tech High School in Cleveland, Bill served his country with honor as a Command Sergeant Major in the Ohio Army National Guard's combat engineer branch, retiring on his birthday in 1996 after an impressive 32 years of service. His commitment to service extended beyond the military; he worked for over 30 years at Stock Equipment Company as a project engineer manager, where he was admired for his expertise, leadership, and sense of humor.

Bill was deeply involved in his community, being a lifelong member of the American Legion, most recently at Post 91. He previously served as Commander at Post 421 and held offices for the 13th District. He also served as President of the 37th Division Veterans Association. He also took pride in being the president of the West Point Parents Club of Northeast Ohio, always seeking ways to give back and uplift those around him.

A passionate musician, Bill was known for his drumming skills, starting as early as 1957. He performed in multiple drum corps and later shared his love of music as Corps Director for the Titan's Drum and Bugle Corps of Brookpark, Ohio. He had a natural gift for making others laugh, his wit brightening the lives of everyone who knew him. Known for his strong backbone and his unwavering principles, Bill was a tough man with a gentle heart, especially when it came to his family dogs. He took immense pride in his Scotch-Irish heritage, his military service, his love for God, and above all, his family. He often boasted about his grandchildren, asking about their lives and being genuinely and continuously interested in supporting their pursuits and dreams.

Bill's funeral services will be held on December 10, 2025, at Tomon and Son's Funeral Home, located at 4772 Pearl Rd, (N. of Brookpark Rd.) Cleveland, OH 44109, beginning at 9:30 AM, followed by a church service at St. Thomas More Catholic Church, located at 4170 N Amber Dr, Brooklyn, OH 44144, beginning at 11 AM, and then a celebration of life including military honors and luncheon at American Legion Post 91, located at 91 American Legion Pkwy, Berea, OH 44017, beginning at 12:30 PM. Family and friends are invited to come together to celebrate the extraordinary life of a man who brought joy, strength, and love into the lives of so many.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in his memory to Hospice of the Western Reserve by clicking here or the Parma Animal Shelter by clicking here.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the nurses of Hospice of the Western Reserve for their compassionate care during Bill's final days, as well as a special thanks to his nephew, Donald Smith, for his unwavering support especially over the last few years.

Bill Smith will be profoundly missed but will forever remain in our hearts, a shining example of love, laughter, and the importance of family. May he rest in peace.

Please check back in the future for further details in regards to Bill's inurnment at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery in Rittman, Ohio, at a later date.