William “Bill” Franklin Smith, 80, of Huntsville, Alabama, passed away unexpectedly on December 20, 2024.
Bill was born on September 12, 1944, to Beulah Ruth (Snipes) and Carl Brooks Smith Sr. in Huntsville, Alabama. He grew up in the Dallas Mill area and graduated from Huntsville High School in 1962. Bill went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree from Athens College in 1967. In 1968, he enlisted in the Army National Guard and served in the Signal Corps as a Communications Specialist until 1974.
In 1968, Bill married Joyce Mae Watson of New Hope, Alabama. They enjoyed a loving and fulfilling 56 years together. Bill is survived by his daughter, Jennifer (David) Hempfling of Cullman, Alabama; his granddaughter, Jillian Ivey (Jonathan Crow) of Huntsville; his brother, Carl (Lynn) Smith Jr. of Huntsville; and many other loving family members and friends.
Bill was a dedicated entrepreneur, founding Smith Equipment in 1984. He was also a devout Christian, having served as pastor for McCauley’s Chapel in Gadsden, Alabama, and as Lay Leader for Epworth United Methodist Church. Bill was deeply involved in The Walk to Emmaus Spiritual Program, where he was a beloved member of the Huntsville Cluster.
Bill’s unexpected passing has left his family, friends, and community heartbroken. He lived a vibrant life, devoted to faith and service to others. His kindness, generosity, and unwavering faith will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
Visitation will be from 12 to 1 p.m. Friday, December 27, 2024, at Latham Church. The memorial service will follow at the church with Pastor Chris Martin officiating.
In lieu of flowers please donate to The Latham Church Building Fund at https://www.shelbygiving.com/app/giving/lathamgiving, or Camp Sumatanga or Camp Sumatanga https://sumatanga.org/ways-to-give/.
