William Thomas Smith Jr

William Thomas Smith, Jr. (aka W.T., “Wild Thing,” and Bill to some) was born November 19, 1940 to Opal and William Thomas Smith, Sr. in San Antonio, Texas. He transitioned into the presence of his eternal home with Jesus Christ, his beloved Eileen, and many loved ones on Sunday, May 4, 2025.

W.T. was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle. He was a faithful friend, devout follower of Jesus, and honorable public servant. He is preceded in death by his bride, Eileen, who passed away last July; his sister, Margie Glover; his parents; and several friends and loved ones. He is survived by his daughters, sons-in-law, grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Julie & Brent Davis (Jeremy, Jarrod, Beau, and Casey) of Bixby, OK; Wendy & Stacy Flynn of Willis, TX; Brandi & Matt Banks (Atticus, Hazel, Eloise, and Birdie) of San Marcos, TX; fun-loving sister, Shirley Myers; nieces and nephew - Penny McCarty, Debbie Sue Young, Diane Dyer, Robin Myers, Robbi Lauden, and Ronnie Glover; as well as many beloved friends who might as well be family. Of course, we can’t forget Lulu, his “true” baby girl (Yorkie) and constant companion. He and Eileen first met as skating partners at the local roller rink. After returning from Vietnam, he made sure she didn’t get away and made her his bride. Together, they shared 55 years of love and laughter and service to others. He was a loving father to his 3 daddy’s girls, supporting them to pursue every dream. He is remembered by most for his one-of-a-kind humor, his generosity, his love, and his devotion to Christ.

W.T. was elected Sheriff of Burnet County from January 1, 2009 to December 31, 2016. He began his career in law enforcement with the San Antonio Police Department in 1968, serving in Patrol, Criminal Intelligence, and Homicide Divisions. He was a Certified Instructor, a Master Peace Officer and a Master Jailer. He received numerous awards and worked many high-profile cases throughout his career. He was a graduate of Southwest Texas State University with a Bachelors of Science in Law Enforcement. Sheriff Smith was also a graduate of the FBI National Academy Session 186. He served on numerous boards and committees in both a professional and private capacity and was also a licensed Baptist minister.

Sheriff Smith served in the U.S. Army from March 1966 to February 1968, serving in both Europe and Vietnam. He received the following awards and decorations: National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, (2) Overseas Service Stars, Vietnam Expeditionary Force Medal, and a Bronze Star.

Visitation will be held at Clements-Wilcox Funeral Home in Marble Falls, Texas on Monday, May 19 from 5-7pm. A Celebration of Life will be held at Hill Country Fellowship Church in Burnet, Texas on Tuesday, May 20 at 10:00 am followed by a Graveside Service with Military Honors at Lakeland Hills Memorial Park, Burnet, Texas.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to one of these charities that were close to his heart - The 100 Club of Central Texas, Highland Lakes Family Crisis Center (previously serving on their Board of Directors), and CRU (formerly Campus Crusade for Christ). Several companies will match donations to these organizations. The family is very grateful for the support of family and friends over the last year and the outpouring of prayer and encouragement from the community and law enforcement agencies. We rejoice in the hope of our future reunion, made possible by the sacrifice of our Lord & Savior, Jesus Christ.