William J. Smith, 83, passed away June 19, 2015, at VA Medical Center in Jackson. He was born on December 2, 1931, to his parents, the late Clarence T. Smith and Ella Mae Smith.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Fannie Jones Smith; two daughters, Gayle S. Johnson (Danny), Brenda Neely (Wyck); granddaughter, Jenifer Courtney (Chase); and one great-granddaughter, Olivia Courtney.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers; Lawrence Smith, Sutton Smith, Ed Smith; sisters, Pauline Bridges, Minnie Barrentine and Candice Blass.

Tutor Funeral Home in Magee handled the arrangements. Services were held at Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Mt. Olive. Interment followed in the church cemetery.