William "Bill" V. Smith

William “Bill” Vincent Smith, 89, passed peacefully into the presence of his Savior on April 13, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and unwavering faith. Born on November 8, 1936, in Rhode Island to William Napoleon and Donalda Smith, Bill was the second of five children.

Bill proudly served his country in the United States Air Force. It was during his time stationed in Cheyenne, Wyoming, in the summer of 1957 that he met the love of his life, Carol Brockman. Their love story blossomed quickly, and they were married on February 14, 1958—a Valentine’s Day beginning to a beautiful marriage that would span 68 years.

Together, Bill and Carol built a life centered on faith, family, and community. They raised two daughters, Karen and Kathy, and later adopted their son, Chuck. Bill’s heart for children extended far beyond his own home, as he lovingly served as a foster father to dozens of children over the years, offering stability, kindness, and a place to belong.

Bill was a familiar and trusted presence in his community, managing Anthony’s Department Store in Malta for many years until its closing in the late 90s. He was known not only for his strong work ethic but also for the genuine care he showed to everyone who walked through the doors.

A man of deep and abiding faith, Bill served faithfully at his Assembly of God church in many roles, always willing to lend a hand wherever needed. He brought joy to countless families as he donned a Santa suit each year to deliver gifts around town, and he invested in young lives as a coach for various sports teams. Yet, of all the roles he held, the one he cherished most was being “Papa Bill” to his grandchildren—a title he carried with immense pride and love.

Bill was a life-long devoted fan of the Boston Red Sox, following players and team stats faithfully every year. Oh what a celebration 2004 brought when the curse was broken and his life-long dream of seeing the Red Sox win the World Series came to fruition!

Bill is survived by his devoted wife, Carol Smith; his children, Karen Ellsworth of Malta, Kathy (Bob) Baden of Ringgold, Georgia, and Chuck (Donna) of Missouri; his beloved grandchildren, Kristin (Steven) Mitchell, Cindy (Dwayne) Teagle, Jeff (Carrie) Baden, Joey and Josh Smith, and Richard Smith; as well as his honorary grandchildren, Michelle, Melissa, Brandon, Jeremy, and Tye Nelson. He also leaves behind many treasured great-grandchildren who were blessed by his warmth and gentle presence.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, three sisters, a great-grandson, and many dear friends and loved ones. We take comfort in knowing that when Bill opened his eyes in eternity, he was greeted by those who had gone before him—and most importantly, by Jesus, whom he loved and served so faithfully.

Bill’s life was a testament to quiet strength, enduring love, and a servant’s heart. His legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched, the family he cherished, and the faith he never wavered in. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

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