William L. “Bill” Smith

December 13, 1928 - December 18, 2017
William L. “Bill” Smith

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William L. (Bill) Smith, 89, of Wilmington, North Carolina, peacefully passed away, Monday, December 18, 2017 surrounded by his family.

Bill was born December 13, 1928 in Wilson County, NC and grew up a humble & happy man in life helping his family on their tobacco farm. He was the last surviving member of eleven children born to Needham A. and Carrie L. Smith.  He served three years in the North Carolina National Guard and soon after met the love of his life Wanda Vaught.  Bill and Wanda were married 64 years, walking side by side in life and love. Together with his wife, he owned and operated “Hanover Business Machines” in Wilmington providing office equipment sales and services. Bill served as Deacon of Winter Park Presbyterian Church.

Bill had many passions in life such as hunting, fishing and bowling, forming many lasting friendships over the years.  By and far, his strongest passion and mark on life was his family.  He is survived by his wife Wanda Smith and his three daughters Wendy Fonvielle (Ed), Tammy Kittleson (Mark) and Jeanne Hooks (Rick); his beloved grandchildren Blair Sholar (Gary), Holly Maxson (Corey), Lauren Brockway (Nick), Walker William Hooks, Chris Fonvielle (Ginny), Kent Fonvielle (Julie); and precious great-grandchildren River, Rachel, Morgan, Alec and Savannah.  All of his nieces and nephews loved their Uncle Bill as well.

The family will welcome visitors to share memories and stories about Bill starting at 10:00am, Friday, December 22, 2017 at Wilmington Funeral and Cremation, 1535 South 41st Street, Wilmington, NC 28403. A Celebration of Life Service will follow in the Chapel. A private family burial service will be held at Oleander Memorial Gardens in Wilmington. The family wishes in lieu of flowers, to provide donations in Bill’s memory to the Winter Park Presbyterian Church at 4501 Wrightsville Avenue, Wilmington, NC 28403. The family expresses their gratitude to all our friends and family that have provided comfort and support as well as the staff at Lower Cape Fear Hospice and Life Care Center.

Daddy always greeted you with a huge smile and a big hug. 

His favorite saying always was “Life is But a Dream”.

Share memories and condolences with the family by clicking on the “Condolence” tab.

Wilmington Funeral & Cremation, 1535 S. 41st Street, Wilmington, NC 28403  910-791-9099


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  • December 20, 2017
    Jennifer Porter says:
    So sorry, such a wonderful man. You will truly miss him.

  • December 20, 2017
    Doug & Dot Eason says:
    Bill was much more than an uncle, he was a special friend. So many great memories when were teens. Please know that I share your loss. Our special love to all of his family.

  • December 20, 2017
    Doug & Dot Eason says:
    Bill was so much more than an uncle, he was a great friend. So many great memories, especially when we were teenagers. Please know that we share your loss. Our deep sympathy to each of you.

  • December 22, 2017
    Dale Russell says:
    So sorry to hear of Mr Smith’s passing. He haed his wings and now resides in the kingdom of God.