William R. L. Smith III

1922 - 2024

William R. L. Smith III

January 3, 1922 - November 2, 2024

William R. L. Smith III, 102, died November 2, 2024. He was the son of W. R. L. Smith, Jr. and Lucille Pelouze Smith. He was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Barbara Budina Smith.

Billy retired after 40 years as a realtor. He was a Navy veteran of WWII. He graduated from McGuire School, attended Hampden-Sydney College where he was a member of the Kappa Sigma fraternity, and later the University of Virginia. Billy was a member of River Road Presbyterian Church and the Country Club of Virginia where he enjoyed golf and tennis until he was in his late 80's.

He is survived by his daughter, Nancy Smith; his son, David Smith; four grandchildren, Margaret Montgomery, David Smith, Jr., Frances Vass and Emily Wharton; and numerous great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Nancy Longaker; and several nieces and nephews.

His long-time friend, Pat Hopkins, who called him every day to bet on baseball, football and horses, kept him in the game. The care of his faithful nurses, Arleta Walker and Vivian Kwala, allowed him to continue to live life on his own terms.

A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m., Wednesday, November 13, in Westhampton Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Samaritan's Purse, River Road Presbyterian Church or a charity of your choice.