William "Bill" George Smith

February 22, 1930 – August 9, 2026

William George Smith, born February 22, 1930, in Sulphur, Oklahoma, was the son of Albert Lee and Laney Bell Smith. He lived a remarkable life filled with adventure, hard work, creativity, family, and service to others.

William "Bill" was a proud World War II veteran who served in the United States Air Force at Brooks Air Force Base in Fairbanks, Alaska. While serving in the military, he played basketball on USO tours against the Harlem Globetrotters. He also completed his high school education while in the service and learned the trade of welding. Following his honorable discharge in 1949, William began working on pipeline projects across the country as a master welder.

It was through his travels and pipeline work that William met the love of his life, Beverly, in Burley, Idaho. They shared 58 years of marriage and built a life filled with family, friendships, and countless adventures. Their travels and work took them to many states, and Bill developed friendships with people from nearly every corner of the United States.

Bill continued his education and earned his college degree. He was a lifelong supporter of members of the military and held deep respect for those who served their country.

Later in his career, Bill became involved in the concrete pipe industry, where he worked for 35 years before retiring from Hydro Conduit Corporation.

Bill was active in golf, tennis and racquetball; always trying to stay active. In the later years he developed a love for poker and enjoyed countless games.

Bill also had a lifelong love of art. He discovered his talent for painting while in junior high school and became a self-taught artist. His creativity continued throughout his life, and he shared his talent by painting for his daughters and many others who were fortunate enough to receive his work.

Family was at the heart of Bill's life. He was the biggest fan at all of his daughters' sporting events and cherished every opportunity to support and encourage them. He loved road trips, especially when they included taking the "scenic route." He had a wonderful gift for storytelling and loved sharing stories of the many adventures and experiences that filled his long and meaningful life.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Albert Lee and Laney Bell Smith; his brother, Garvan; his sisters, Louise, Letha, and Martha; his beloved wife of 58 years, Beverly; and his daughter, Laura Fisher.

He is survived by his daughters, Lynette Zimmerman (Ben F. III) and Michelle Clark (Jack); grandchildren Sandra, Amanda, Jennifer, and William; and several great-grandchildren, along with many other family members and friends who will carry his memory in their hearts.

Bill leaves behind a legacy of love, service, craftsmanship, creativity, family, and adventure. His stories, paintings, friendships, and the love he gave so freely will continue to live on through the many lives he touched.

Celebration of Life                                                    Burial

Saturday, August 29, 2026                                        Sunday, August 30,2026

11:00 a.m.                                                                  11:00 a.m.

VFW Post                                                                  Oakwood Cemetery

1452 Hwy 361                                                            County Rd  443

Ingleside, TX 78362                                                   Hondo, TX 78861