COLUMBUS
William “Bill” R. Smith, 87, of Columbus, passed away at 10:17 a.m. Monday, July 10, 2023 at Our Hospice of South Central Indiana Inpatient Facility.
Bill was born February 17, 1936, in Walton, Kentucky, the son of James Scott and Beulah Roberts Smith.
After Bill graduated from Walton Verona High School in 1953, he went on to play basketball at the University of Kentucky. Bill met Shirley Mullens at Walton Verona High School. They married on June 21, 1957 and had three children. After graduating from the University of Kentucky, Bill went on to be a high school teacher and basketball coach. He then worked at Owen County Rural Electric for over 30 years before retiring. In his spare time, Bill enjoyed fishing and watching UK basketball. He was an avid fan and season ticket holder of the University of Kentucky Wildcats. He will be deeply missed by those that knew and loved him.
Survivors include his wife of 66 years, Shirley; children, Tracy (Gary) Hawn of Covington, Kentucky, Terry (Jimmy) Willoughby of Crittenden, Kentucky, Scott (Tracy) Smith of Columbus, eleven grandchildren; thirteen great-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, James Wayne Smith and grandson, David Willoughby.
In keeping with the family’s request, cremation will take place and there is no service planned at this time.
Memorial contributions may be made to Our Hospice of South Central Indiana Inpatient Facility.
Online condolences and special memories may be shared with Bill’s family at barkesweaverglick.com.
Arrangements entrusted to Barkes, Weaver & Glick Funeral Home.
