William “Bill” Owen Smith, Jr., known for his lifelong dedication to his business and the community,
passed away peacefully at the age of 90 on December 3, 2023, at the Christian Care Center in Medina,
Tennessee.
Born on March 7, 1933, in Jackson, Tennessee, William was the son of the late William Owen
Smith Sr. and Emma Christine Burruss Smith.
Bill’s successful co-ownership and operation of Smith Electric Company for over 50 years
alongside his late brother Ronald Smith, was a staple in the community closing in 2013. Their
harmonious partnership transformed the company into a symbol of reliability and excellence
within the industry.
Throughout his life, Bill embraced every challenge with unwavering determination and a passion
for hard work. His tireless efforts not only ensured the success of Smith Electric but also
contributed to the growth and prosperity of Jackson and its surrounding communities. He was a
faithful University Of Tennessee Volunteers fan, holding football season tickets for over 30
years. His happiest days were spent at his beloved cabin located in Cherokee Heights on the
Tennessee River. He was an avid boater and fisherman.
Bill’s memory will be lovingly carried on by his daughter, Vickie Burgess and her husband John
Barry, with whom he had a special bond. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Bret Smith
and Michael Wolfe; his wife Devinn and their children, Ellis and Olive Wolfe.
Along with his parents Bill was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Mary Margaret Briscoe,
his son, Mack Smith ,and Elizabeth Johnson his sister.
Bill was devout Christian and a member of Woodland Baptist Church in Jackson.
A graveside service celebrating Bill’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, December 8, 2023
at Highland Memorial Gardens. Friends, family, and members of the community are warmly
invited to join in celebrating his life.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the Federation
of the Blind, 200 East Wells Street at Jernigan Place, Baltimore, Maryland 21230 or online at
www.nfb.org as a way of honoring Bill’s legacy.
Arrington Funeral Directors, 148 W. University Parkway, Jackson, Tennessee 38305
731.668.1111
