Billy Gene Smith

Billy Gene Smith was born January 19,1934 to Eugene Otto and Goldie Mae Santi Smith. Bill along with his brother James Franklin grew up on a farm in Hermitage, TN. His grandfather from Switzerland lived with them. Bill had great affection for his grandparents, Bill talked of hard work on the farm but did not seem to mind. His father once got him a baseball for shelling so many peas. Bill graduated from Donelson High School and was a member of FFA.

Bill joined the army in 1956 and found himself in Alaska. In the army he received training in Supply handling, movement specialist and Traffic Agent. He received a good conduct medal. The skill learned in the army gave him the skills to work in Warehousing upon his return to Nashville. He worked at Cain Sloan Warehouse for many years. Later Bill would work for Shankle Construction where he worked in clean up. He worked on most of the area schools and the TBI building. After retirement Bill continued to work cutting yards for many years.

For 54 years Bill was a member of Church of Christ at Broadmoor. Even after moving to Portland , TN in 2005 Bill continued to worship there. Bill saved every card sent to him. Our family would like to thank the congregation for the years of prayers, cards and visits to Bill. Bill certainly loved the people of Broadmoor.

Bill has 2 children Virgina Hill Smith Howard (David) and William David Smith (Shannon). Bill has 4 grandchildren Zachary Howard, Elijah, Thomas and Caroline Smith. Bill enjoyed buying Christmas gifts and Easter baskets for his grandchildren.

In 2005 Bill sold the family home on Snow Avenue and moved to Portland , TN. He had great neighbors and was much loved by the Howell family. Stacy and family opened their hearts and home to Bill. Bill was able with their help to stay in his home for many years. In 2022 Bill after an extended illness needed to go to assisted living.

Charter of Gallatin gave Bill a very happy 2 years. When he entered, he was depressed, but in a very short time the staff and residents had Bill a part of the community. Bill enjoyed eating with his various tables mates and attending church and bible study programs. Bill was able to die very peacefully in the place he loved last on May 25,2024 at the age of 90 years old.

A visitation will be held Friday, May 31, 2024 from 12pm until 1pm at Forest Lawn Funeral Home followed by a 1pm graveside service at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens with Bro.Mike Roy officiating.