William L. Smith

William L. “Bill” Smith, 101, passed away peacefully at home on December 27, 2025. A proud Southern gentleman, Bill lived an extraordinary and full life, guided by devotion to family, service, and faith.

Born and raised in North Carolina, Bill knew as a young man that he wanted to join the U.S. Navy, and in 1942, he began what became 20 years of proud service to his country. Having had no prior experience with ships or the ocean, he nonetheless embraced a life at sea, serving aboard 11 different ships during World War II and beyond. With primary skills in butchering and cooking, Bill trained many new Navy butchers and fed thousands of sailors as he circled the world, contributing not only his work ethic and expertise, but also his good nature and camaraderie.

While on liberty in New York City, Bill met Josephine Natale, whom he would later marry. They shared many devoted years together, raising their family in the Bronx before later moving to New Jersey. Josephine preceded him in death in 1992. In the years that followed, Bill married Anne, who also preceded him in death, and whose companionship brought him comfort and support later in life.

Bill and Josephine had four children: their son Patrick “Pat” (deceased) and his wife, RoseAnn; daughter Carol (deceased) and her husband, Vincent (deceased); son William and his wife, Patricia; and daughter Barbara and her husband, Jimmy.

Bill was blessed with 10 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him immense pride and joy. He loved to whistle, to share stories from his remarkable life at sea, and to reflect on the history he had lived through — a lifetime of experiences so rich it could fill a book.

Above all, Bill was deeply proud of his family and his years of service. He will be remembered for his warmth, humility, unwavering resilience, and the countless ways he touched the lives of those around him.

Bill’s legacy lives on in the generations who follow him and in the many memories, lessons, and stories he leaves behind.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 6, 2026 from 12:00 pm until the Funeral Service and Military Honors at 2:00 pm at Anderson and Campbell Funeral Home, 703 Main Street, Toms River NJ.