William John Smith

William John “Bill” Smith, 70, of Olathe, Kansas, passed away on October 10, 2025. He was born in Kansas City, Missouri, to Richard Lester Smith and Anna Jean Smith (Jensen). Bill was raised in Kansas City and graduated from Shawnee Mission West High School, spending much of his life working hard to provide for those he loved. Bill began his career at Armco Steel, where he took pride in his work and the friendships he built along the way. He later worked as a driver for Keystone Automotive, a position that suited his love for the open road and meeting new people. A true Kansas City man, Bill enjoyed watching football, fishing, grilling, and spending time outdoors. He also enjoyed the excitement of the casino and could light up any room with his stories—stories he was always happy to tell again and again. His humor, warmth, and larger-than-life personality will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Richard Lester Smith and Anna Jean Smith (Jensen), and his son, Michael William Smith. He is survived by his daughters, Regan Lynn Smith and Jessica Leigh Stajduhar; his grandchildren, Ayva Shea Long, Jackson William Stajduhar, Skyler Mackenleigh Stajduhar, and Adelyn Grace Layton; and his siblings, Dr. Richard Lester Smith II, Ann Marie Ray, Cheryl Jean Temple, and Jeanine Diane Wahl. Bill was incredibly proud of his family and loved them deeply. A graveside service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on December 16, 2025, at Oak Lawn Memorial Gardens, 13901 Blackbob Road, Olathe, Kansas 66062. Family and close friends are invited to attend. Bill’s life will be remembered and celebrated by all who knew and loved him.