William Smith Obituary
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Bill was born on September 9, 1943, in Marshall, MO to Earle and Betty (Brandecker) Smith. He grew up in Marshall and graduated from Mercy High School in 1961. In 1962 he joined the Air Force. While in the Air Force Bill continued his education and earned his Master's Degree in Industrial Engineering from the University of Missouri in 1976. While in the Air Force Bill worked with teams developing satellite system (including GPS) and retired as a Computer Systems Manager.
From an early age Bill developed a love for aerospace and aircraft. He spent many hours fostering this passion by piloting remote controlled planes as a young man. As he grew older his interest in planes never ceased to fade, and this is what led to him to a career in the Air Force. Later in life Bill developed a love for Corvettes, NASCAR, and gun collecting.
Bill is survived by his daughter Sonya Smith of Corpus Christi, Texas; and four siblings: Diane McCain, Donna Craddock (Mike), Deborah Smith, and Daniel Smith; along with several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Ellen, son Barry and daughter Terri Smith.
Friends will be received from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, August 30, 2025 at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, 903 Bernadette Dr., Columbia, MO 65203 which will be immediately followed by a memorial mass.
Memorial donations in Bill's memory can be made to The Central Missouri Humane Society by clicking this link, or to Disabled American Veterans by clicking this link.
Arrangements are under the direction of Parker-Millard Funeral Service & Crematory, 12 East Ash Street, Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 449-4153. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.millardfamilychapels.com.
To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of William Earle Smith, please visit our Tree Store.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
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