William Arthur Smith passed away the evening of June 16, 2018, after being surrounded by his daughter and two grandchildren, at Big Sky Healthcare Community nursing home, in Helena, Montana. He was 68 years old.
William was born July 28, 1949, in East Chicago, Indiana, where he lived until he was drafted to Vietnam. He served in the 1st Cavalry Division, Airmobile, 4BN from 1969-1970, and was known by many as “Smitty”. After spending time in the midwest, he decided to make a change and moved out the beautiful and expansive “Big Sky” Montana. This is where he found his home with many amazing friends that became his family. ‘Billy” was loved by all who met him. He was a man of great honor, integrity, and grace. He led a quiet life, which was fine by him. He loved sports (Go Cubs and Bears!), nature, politics and philosophy. He was loved dearly by his daughter, Alexis, and his two grandchildren, Eli and Lily, who live in Michigan. His presence in their lives will always be cherished and his gifts of love, kindness, and generosity will always be remembered and honored.
William was a man of many lives. He was a soldier not only in war, but in mind, body, and spirit. After surviving cancer and liver disease, he chose to create a life of health and independence for himself. He lived another full decade and then passed away from heart and kidney disease. His presence is already missed.
He is survived by his daughter and grandchildren, Alexis, Elijah, and Lily Harris, along with nieces and nephews. William is preceded in death by his father (Ralph), mother (Bertha), brother (Bruce), sister (Cindy)(Cleo).
A graveside military service was beautifully conducted on July 6, 2018, at the Montana State Veterans Cemetery, in Helena, Montana.
His family would like to extend gratitude, appreciation, and love to the many people that supported and loved William through his life and passing: John, Robert, Ray, Jerry, Bob, Pat, Alan, Compassus Hospice Care staff, VA staff at Fort Harrison and SLC, Saint Pete’s Hospital staff, Big Sky Healthcare Community nursing home, Big Sky Cremation, VA Cemetery, Jane and Nate, Lauren, Steve’s restaurant, the many businesses in Helena, and all the friends and family that sent love and light to our family.
1 Corinthians 13:13 And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love.
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John King says
Billy was friend for over 30yrs rest in peace my friend you are our hero God bless you Bill. Thanks for the privilege of knowing you your friend John King
John King says
Hi Alexa this is John King I wish I would have the chance to meet you I love Billy he was a good friend we shared a lot of time together if you get a chance give me a call on my home phone number is 406 502 1186.