William Edward Smith

Bill was born on May 20, 1939 to James Edward and Juanita Smith. Growing up he lived in Eloy, AZ, Oregon and Pecos, TX. Bill enlisted in the Army and was proud and honorable Veteran of the US Army and had fond memories of the men he served with.

A drive through Santa Fe, TX to visit family changed his life. He met and married Ruth Wilkerson; and instantly had a family; adopting Diana, Dale and Sandy; Tammy and Danny soon followed. He provided for his family as a lineman with a long and active membership with IBEW Local #66.

Bill later married Sandra Smith, who brought an additional five daughters to the family. His lifetime career led him all over the west coast working on highline construction projects, climbing poles using spikes and hanging out of helicopters in mountain regions to make repairs to keep the lights on!

Bill and Sandra retired in 2005 reuniting with family after relocating to New Braunfels, TX where there was lots of fun to be had and even a float down the Comal River. Later, he and Sandra moved back to the little town of Santa Fe, TX that had changed his life so many years earlier. They were blessed to find such a wonderful church home at Saltgrass Cowboy Church and spending time with his church friends and ALL his family members brought him joy beyond measure!

Bill was preceded in death by his parents: James Edward Smith and Juanita Freeman; brothers: RA Smith, JT Smith, Travis Smith and Tommy Freeman and one great granddaughter: Trinity Chenoweth.

He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 43 years, Sandra Smith; daughter, Diana Chenoweth; son, Dale Smith; daughter, Sandy Griffin and Son-in-Law, Marcus Griffin; daughter, Tammy Goodwin and Son-in-Law, Joe Goodwin; son, Danny Smith; five step-daughters: Kathy Brown and Son-in-Law, Brad Brown, Jackie Vessy, Terry Warren, Stacy Black and Connie Meek. Along with many, many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.