Smith, William (Bill) Garth

Tecumseh, MI

At age 74, Bill went home to be with the Lord on May 28, 2025. He was born on June 9, 1950, in Jackson, MI, the son of William and Norene (Post) Smith.

Bill had a storied career before retiring in 2012, working as a Michigan State Police officer, insurance adjuster, autobody foreman, and Milan School maintenance worker. At different times in his life, he resided in Jackson, MI; Metamora, IL; Britton, MI; and Tecumseh, MI. He was a parishioner of Ridgeway Nazarene Church in Britton.

Anyone who knew Bill knew he had a fondness for classic cars and a love for auto restoration, racing, and auto swap meets. He restored many classics throughout the years, leading to his last project and pride and joy—his orange 1964 Chevrolet El Camino. In his early years, he was a star high school athlete, which led to his lifelong passion for Detroit sports, including football, basketball, and, of course, the Tigers. He loved camping at Norway Lake in the Upper Peninsula with his family, going on road trips, tinkering in his pole barn, and visiting junk shops. He also enjoyed reading, building model cars, and dining out.

Bill is survived by his sister, Noree (Douglas) Woodard; sons, William Southard Smith (Kai) and Michael (Katherine) Smith; and former wife, Luanna Smith-Kish, along with numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Bill was a father, a friend, and a good man. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

A memorial service will be held 12 pm Saturday, June 7, 2025 at Ridgeway Church of Nazarene (6886 Ridge Highway, Britton, MI). Memorial visitation will begin at 10 am. Inurnment will take place at Ridgeway Cemetery (Ridgeway, MI).