William Michael Smith

Michael Smith, 76, of Houston, Texas, beloved husband, father, stepfather, veteran, and tireless advocate for fellow service members, passed away on May 28th, 2026, surrounded by the love he gave so freely. Born in Houston to William “Bill” Smith and Gloria Jean Hardcastle Smith, Michael grew up with a thirst for adventure; be it surfing, cruising in his station wagon, and always sharing laughs and mischief with friends, cousins, and his sister Chris. At 19, he answered the call to serve the country, joining the Army for four years before continuing his military career in the U.S. Navy. Over 18½ years of service, he completed two tours in Vietnam, served as a shipboard signalman, earned his Shellback, and rose to the rank of Navy Senior Chief. He was one of seven sailors sent to assist in the Jonestown cleanup. After sustaining a shipboard TBI, he was honorably discharged. Michael’s devotion to service continued after active duty. He worked for the Department of Veterans Affairs for 25½ years, rising from mail carrier to Field Examiner. He cared for veterans with relentless compassion by helping them secure benefits, protecting their funds, uncovering fraud, delivering blankets and food to those experiencing homelessness, and working long hours from his home office to ensure claims were handled fairly. His dedication earned him numerous awards, including a flag flown over the nation’s capital in his honor on Veterans Day by President Obama. Michael’s family was central to his life. He married Kathy Ann Cole during his military years, and they raised two daughters, Danielle Jewell and Jessica Rae. After their divorce in 2000, he married Kay Porter Blake in San Antonio on February 16, 2002, and welcomed her daughter, Heather Ann Blake, into his heart. Their relationship was built on trust, honesty, and mutual respect; Heather would come to call him “Dad.” He is survived by his wife Kay; daughters Danielle and Jessica; stepdaughter Heather Ann Blake; many cousins, nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends; and by the broader veteran community he served and loved. Michael was a life member of both DAV and VFW. He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Gloria, and his sister, Chris. Funeral arrangements include burial at Houston National Cemetery, 10410 Veterans Memorial Drive, Houston. Family and friends are invited to remember Michael for his steady loyalty, his generous heart, and his abiding commitment to honor and service. “Fair winds and following seas.”