Billy Bob "Bill" SMITHPETERS

June 29, 1930 - June 28, 2025

Spokane - Bill Smithpeters passed away just one day shy of his 95th birthday. Born in Mt. Vernon, Illinois, Bill lived a full life rooted in service, education, family, and adventure.

Bill played in the minor leagues for the Cardinals before enlisting in the USAF during the Korean War. After meeting Georgialee in Newfoundland, they married and moved to the Midwest and then again to the Spokane area, where he finished his degree and began his teaching and coaching career in local high schools. His last 13 years in the H.S. were at Mead. He was asked to coach the women's basketball team at EWU - where he remained for 20 years. He left his mark at EWU being the first coach to take a team to the NCAA tournament.

Bill shared 70 years of marriage with his wife, Georgialee. They raised two children: Kurt and Karol; and were later blessed with seven grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.

Upon retirement, Bill and Georgialee embraced a life of adventure, touring the United States in their RV. But no matter where the road took them, Bill's heart was always with his family. He was a constant presence throughout his grandchildren's - and great-grandchildren's lives.

At home, Bill was known for always having a major project in motion. Whether remodeling, repairing, or relocating - some might say he made a hobby out of moving homes. He found joy in watching Detroit Tigers baseball and Gonzaga basketball. Each night at home consisted of prayer and journaling with an old western on in the background. He played softball into his 70s and was even on the team for the Senior Olympics. He faithfully served at Sunday School and was a Deacon in his church. He also hosted a "Poor Man's" poker night for over 30 years. Perhaps his most cherished hobby was his sprawling Christmas village - a tradition that transformed his home into a holiday wonderland and brought together young and old.

A memorial service will be held at Redeeming Grace Church, 6528 N. Monroe, on August 23, at 11:00 a.m.

In tribute to Bill, the family invites attendees to wear Detroit Tigers, Gonzaga, EWU, or orange attire.

His legacy lives on in the family he cherished and the lives he touched. His last words to his great-grandchildren were, "Be courageous and say what you believe." But more notably, his advice to all the men that married into his family, "Take two and hit to right!"

But those who wait on the LORD Shall renew their strength;

They shall mount up with wings like eagles,

They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:31