William Dewey Smith Jr.

William Dewey Smith, Jr. passed away Friday, February 6, 2026, at Charlotte Stephenson Senior Living in Adrian, Michigan. A longtime resident of Dexter and Ann Arbor before moving to Onsted, he was 102 years old.

William, known to most as Bill, was born August 13, 1923, in Lansing, Michigan, to the late William Dewey Sr. and Sereta Marguerite (Fielder) Smith. He grew up in the Cleveland, Ohio area and graduated from Shaker Heights High School.

Bill proudly served his country during World War II in the United States Army, stationed in both the American and Asiatic-Pacific Theaters. He was assigned to the 803rd Army Marine Ship Repair Company, where his work helped keep vital transport and service vessels operational during wartime missions. His service reflected both technical skill and steadfast dedication to those alongside him. For his bravery and commitment, Bill received numerous commendations, including the American Theater Ribbon; Asiatic-Pacific Theater Ribbon with three Bronze Stars; Philippine Liberation Ribbon with one Bronze Star; Good Conduct Medal; Purple Heart; and the World War II Victory Medal. His military years remained a source of quiet pride throughout his life and shaped his enduring sense of duty, humility, and resilience.

Following his honorable discharge, Bill pursued higher education at The Ohio State University and the University of Wyoming, ultimately graduating from Fenn College. During this time, he met and married Marcella Grace “Marcie” Nash. The two were united in marriage in Cleveland, Ohio, on March 12, 1948.

After relocating to Ann Arbor, Bill began a long and dedicated career with the Ford Motor Company as a cost control engineer, retiring in 1991 to care for Marcie during her declining health. She preceded him in death on May 7, 1992.

A man of unwavering faith, Bill joined First Presbyterian Church of Ann Arbor on February 9, 1965. There, he served as an Elder, taught Sunday School, and was rarely seen without a Bible close at hand. He also devoted many years as a Boy Scout advisor, mentoring young people with patience, consistency, and a strong moral example.

Though he could have a gruff exterior, Bill was deeply devoted to his family and had a playful sense of humor that showed most when he was with them. He treasured time spent with his sons, granddaughter, and great-grandchildren, and even developed a fondness for his great-grand dog, Penny, and great-grand cat, Nina. He enjoyed watching old sitcoms and Westerns, spy movies, and the History Channel.

Bill is survived by his sons, Sheldon Smith and Roger Smith; granddaughter, Laura (Bryan) Upham; and great-grandchildren, Willow, Lily, Holly, and Rowan.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Marcie; and siblings, Alan Smith and Gerry Lou Bauer.

Visitation will be held at Hosmer-Muehlig Funeral Chapel on Saturday, April 11, from 10:00 until 11:00 a.m. A funeral service will follow at the funeral home with Rev. Brewster ‘Budge’ Gere officiating. Burial with Military Honors will take place at Forest Lawn Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made in Bill’s honor to Hospice of Lenawee, in appreciation for the compassionate care and support shown to Bill and his family (https://www.hospiceoflenawee.org/donate.php

Homser-Muehlig Funeral Chapel is honored to serve Bill’s family. Online condolences and memories may be expressed by visiting HosmerMuehlig.com.