William Harrison Smith

William Harrison Smith, of Waynesville, passed away on May 1, 2026, at the age of 93, surrounded by love and the presence of those closest to him.

William was a man deeply devoted to his family, working daily to ensure their comfort, stability, and well-being. His love was steady and evident in the life he built and the care he showed to those around him. He found his greatest purpose in providing for and supporting the people he loved.

He spent most of his working years as a salesman for Fisher Oil Company and H.T. Hackney, where he was known for his strong work ethic, reliability, and the relationships he built as he traveled all across Western North Carolina.

He was born and raised in rural Haywood County, in the Hemphill community, a place that remained meaningful to him throughout his life. It was there that his story began, rooted in family, faith, and a deep sense of home.

He shared a lifelong love with his late wife, Clarine, his childhood sweetheart to whom he was married for 75 years. Together, they began their marriage humbly in a one-room smokehouse in Hemphill, building a life grounded in devotion, perseverance, and partnership. Their story was one of enduring love and commitment.

A lifelong member of Hemphill Baptist Church, he was a man of strong faith. William loved God and was a passionate and capable teacher of the Scriptures. He found purpose in sharing his beliefs with others and living a life that reflected his values.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Guy and Glennie Moody Smith; his sister, Sarah; his brother, Raymond; his beloved wife, Clarine; and his daughter, Kathy Jean.

He is survived by his brothers, Norris (Eula) and Wayne (Dottie); his son, Tom (Shirley); his cherished grandchildren, Ian Paul (Jennifer), Rebecca Paul (Benjamin), Nathan Smith (Hannah), and Carla Smith (Josh); and his great-grandchildren, Breanna Paul, Haven Paul, McKinley Fisher, and Raigan Fisher.

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday May 5th at 2 pm at Garrett Funeral Home. Visitation will be from 1 to 2 pm. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor William’s memory are encouraged to make a gift to the Lottie Moon International Mission Fund through First Baptist Church of Waynesville.

William Smith will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, his deep faith, and the quiet strength with which he lived his life. His legacy continues in the family he loved so deeply and the values he passed on.

Garrett Funeral Home is caring for the Smith family. A message of comfort may be left for the family at www.garrettfuneralsandcremations.com