William E. Smith, 85, died at his home in Chandler, AZ on September 20, 2023, with his loving wife by his side. William was born March 25, 1938 in Sesser, Ill to Mary and Roy Smith. He is preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Betty Noyes.
He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1956-60, including 2 years duty in Japan. William was employed by the State of Wisconsin, the Division of Corrections. He retired after 30 years, in 1990, as a Deputy Warden at Racine, WI. While employed at Lincoln Hills School in Merrill, WI he was a Kiwanis member, founded a Credit Union branch for employees, was involved with Boy Scouts and taught Sunday School at the Methodist Church. He was an avid reader, consumer of history, crossword wizard and enjoyed playing poker and cribbage with his friends.
William married Marilyn Johnson in 1961. He is survived by his wife and 3 sons; Steven (Beth), Michael (Christine) and Robin (Michele), a sister, Barbara Else, along with being “Papa” to 6 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date in Wisconsin.
Memorial tributes may be given in William’s name to the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix, AZ; a favorite place, where he was a longtime member: [email protected]
“We will mourn his passing and celebrate the memories we were lucky to have.”
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.neptunesociety.com/location/phoenix-cremation for the Smith family.
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