Willie Lee Smith

In Memory of
Retired Captain
Willie L. "Omar" Smith
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of a beloved husband,
father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. Willie L. Smith,
affectionately known as "Omar Smith" and Big "O", was born
September 18, 1949 in Mobile Alabama. He was called to rest on
Friday, December 22, 2023 while residing at the William F. Green
State Veterans Home in Bay Minette AL.
Willie was a remarkable leader, distinguished by his commitments.
He could light up any room and did not meet any strangers. Willie
had a passion for helping people and his community. He loved
reading softball and fishing. Willie cherished every moment spent
with his family.
Willie was a 1969 graduate of Mobile County Training School.
After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Navy, and was
stationed in Corpus Christi Texas as an aircraft mechanic. While
serving his country, he received a National Defense Medal. Willie
was honorably discharged on January 4, 1971. He was employed
with the Old Mobile County Jail for twenty-three years and retired
as a Captain in 2007 at the Mobile County Metro Jail.
Throughout his life, Willie was deeply involved in various
organizations which included The NAACP, President of South
Brookley Association, Ben Cato Rain High School PTO,
"Affectionately known as the Mayor of D.I.P", The National
Association of Black Military Men (BMM), Law Enforcement
Association, Served the Africa-town community, A member of the
Dragons Association, and was also a Masonic Mason who believed
in brotherhood and helping others.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Eugene and Bessie Mae
Williams; his sister, Pauline "Big P" Johnson; and his mother-in
law, Vivian Thornton.
Omar leaves to cherish his memories, a loving, caring and devoted
wife, who was faithful, until his transition, LaTonya Smith; step-
mother, Mrs. Mildred Jackson Williams; three sons: Dr. Willie E.
(Cheryl) Smith, Sr. of Lafayette, LA, Ron (Jada Dukes) Smith of
Mobile, AL and Omar Smith of Mobile, AL; one daughter,
SiTonja Foster of Mobile, AL; two brothers: Eddie Kenyatta King of
Mobile AL and David (Regina) Williams of Mobile, AL; one sister,
Betty Ann Lewis of Mobile, AL; one aunt, Lucinda Andrews of
Mobile, AL; one uncle, James Lee Dennis of Mobile, AL; two
brothers-in-law and two sisters-in-law; eleven grandkids and four
great-grandkids; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other
relatives and friends.