William M. Smith

William Maurice Smith was born on May 28, 1943 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He was the second child of five of the late William A. Smith and Mary M. Smith. After a long illness, he departed this life on February 6, 2011, and entered into eternal peace.

Bill attended Peirce Junior College, where he received his Associate degree in Science. After he graduated from Peirce Junior College, he attended Philadelphia College of Textiles and Science. Bill graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree. Bill was drafted by the Army in 1966. He served as a medic in Vietnam for two years. Before leaving to serve in the Army, he married Doris Artis on May 7, 1966. From this union, three children were born. He was a caring and loving father to Roetina, Dorsia, and William Jr. Bill and Doris were active participants at their church, until illness prevented them from attending.

Bill was a very active person. He loved to play basketball, tennis, and racquetball. During his life, he participated in numerous basketball leagues and won championships and other awards. When he was not playing sports, he would watch sports on television and try to attend as many games as possible. While living in Arizona, Bill and Doris were regular attendants at Arizona Diamondbacks, Phoenix Suns, and UA football and basketball games.

Bill was multi-faceted and had a very engaging personality. People were drawn to him due to his warm heart, sense of humor, knowledge, and likeability factor. He spent a lot of time at work, but found time to help other people. His favorite charity event was dressing up as Santa Claus and passing out gifts at Campbell Elementary School. He was a loving and devoted family man. He stressed education, love, and unselfishness.

Preceding him in death were his parents, William and Mary. Those who he leaves to mourn and treasure his precious memories are his devoted wife, Doris Smith; his daughters, Roetina Green (Ronald), Dorsia Smith Silva (Antonio); his son William Smith Jr. (Christina); his sister Joyce Smith of Philadelphia, PA; his three brothers Jerry Smith (Robin) of Roxbourgh, PA, Robin Smith of Philadelphia, PA, and Wayne Smith (Marilyn) of Philadelphia, PA; his grandson Ronald William Green; his godson Kevin Sims of Washington D.C.; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, relatives, and friends.