Billy Gene "Poppy" Smith

Billy Gene Smith was born September 24, 1939, in Arlington, Missouri, to the late Walter Eugene and Dora Mae (Crossland) Smith. He went home to be with his Lord early Saturday morning November 12, 2011, at his home surrounded by his loving family, neighbors and friends. Bill attained the age of 72 years, 1 month and 19 days. He assured himself everlasting life by accepting Christ as his Lord and Savior on April 10, 2011 at the New Friendship Baptist Church. As a boy, Bill grew up and attended school in the Newburg area. Bill was united in marriage to the love of his life, Norma Jo Perkins on June 20, 1959, by Rev. Earl Gladden in Waynesville, Missouri. Bill and Norma shared over 52 wonderful years and four loving children: James, Robert, Sheila and Dana. Bill was a devoted husband and dedicated father, grandfather and great grandfather. Bill was an extremely hard worker. He was a master auto body craftsman. He was employed for many years at Bench Motors, Wiener’s Auto Body and for the last seven years at Lowe Chevrolet. He had great ability and talent when it came to repairing a damaged vehicle, and making it look brand new again. Bill enjoyed gardening and caring for his yard and surrounding property. He also enjoyed doing garden tilling and brush hogging for others. Bill was an avid horseman. He took great pride in showing “Big Red” and “Jim Reed” at various horse shows in the area. Bill knew the greatest blessing in his life was his family; Norma, the children, grandchildren and great grandchildren were his pride and joy. He loved family gatherings on “the ridge” and the peacefulness of their love and support through his illness. He will be missed, but fondly remembered by all. Bill is survived by his wife: Norma; four children: James Smith (Joy Lynn) of Waynesville, Robert Smith (Barb) of Richland, Sheila Smith (Jerry) of Linn and Dana Lane (Randy) of Waynesville; ten grandchildren: Shanna Taylor (Jason), Brianne Coleman, Jason Williams, Amee Dumas (Chris), Tozh Smith, J.D. Smith, Jodi Sapp (Matt), Bo Sumner, Mary Sumner and Heather Bays (Eric); fifteen great grandchildren: Trever, Skyeler, Taryn, MacKenzie, Kelsie, Bryton, Logan, Kyla, Karson, Myah, Conner, Madylan, Brandon, Brooklyn and Hunter; several nieces, nephews; cousins, other relatives and friends. In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by one granddaughter: Somer Smith and three siblings: Donna Jean, J.K. and Bobby Smith. Funeral services were held at 1:00 p.m. Monday, November 14, 2011 in the Memorial Chapels and Crematory with Pastor Gary Humphrey officiating. Soloist Becky Lercher sang “Serenaded By Angels” and Bill’s brother-in-law, Alvar Velez sang “If That Isn’t Love”, “If We Never Meet Again” and “Amazing Grace”. Serving as escorts were Donnie Cogar, Dean Cogar, Eugene Hendrix, Darold Wieners, Chris Dumas and Norman Gan. Serving as honorary escorts were John Smith and Tom Schlauch. Burial followed in the Centerpoint Cemetery of Pulaski County, Missouri. Services were under the direction of Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Waynesville / St. Robert.

Billy Gene "Poppy" Smith

September 24, 1939 - November 12, 2011