Bill Wayne Smith

SMITH, BILL WAYNE, age 71, of Prescott, passed away April 16, 2023. He was born on November 20, 1951, in Albertville, Alabama, to the late David and Marzell Smith (nee Ogles). Bill attended Pontiac Northern High School before serving his country in the United States Army as part of the 1st Cavalry Division during the Vietnam era. He went on to work for General Motors in their Truck and Bus division, performing heavy repair. When asked about his work, Bill said he completed a lot of crossword puzzles in between jobs. He retired after 33 years and remained a lifelong consumer of GM vehicles. Bill had resided in Prescott since 2007, formerly of Royal Oak. Retirement provided Bill with time for travel to see family in Virginia, Alabama, and Florida. He enjoyed playing cards, working on cars, and spending time with his family and friends.

Bill married his late wife, Jani, on August 1, 1981. They enjoyed 38 years together before she preceded him in death. He is survived by his children, Heidi Smith, Jason (Stephanie) Smith, and Sarah (Cole) Bonini; grandchildren Megan, Madelyn, Mia, Roland, and Simone; brothers David “Al” (Janet) Smith, Terry (Becky) Smith, sister Susie (Rick) Jackson, and many nieces and nephews. 

At the family’s request, no visitation or service will be held at this time. A celebration of life and internment of cremains will be held at a later date. Memorial donations in Bill’s honor may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project. Kindly keep Bill and his family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. 

Bill will be celebrated and memorialized on Monday, June 19, 2023.  Please join his children and family as he is buried with military honors at 9:45 AM beside his loving wife Jan Smith at Great Lakes National Cemetery (4200 Belford Road, Holly, MI).  A luncheon will be held immediately following the burial, at Deer Lake Conference & Banquet Center.

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