Obituary of William J. Smith

William J. Smith, 85, of Pompey, NY passed away peacefully, at home, on March 23, 2025. Born November 7th, 1939, in Syracuse NY, Bill was the third of William and Caroline Smith’s four children.  

In 1958, Bill married the love of his life, Helen E Green. Bill retired from the Red Star Trucking Company, after 33 years and over 1.5 million miles of accident free driving. Bill’s impressive driving record was acknowledged by Congressman Walsh.

Bill relished being with his family, going to camp on the St. Lawrence River, vacationing on Cape Cod, eating at diners (he never met a diner he didn’t like), woodworking or just sitting at the kitchen table enjoying a cup of coffee.

Bill was a prolific reader on many diverse topics. He was a self-taught jack of all trades and  could build or repair almost anything.

William is predeceased by his wife, Helen E. (Green), father, William B. and mother Caroline T., siblings; Antoinette (McAvan) and Frank J. 

William is survived by his children; Theresa (Jeff) Hewitt of Liverpool, Donna (Chuck) Greene of Pompey, Michael (Sandra) Smith of Minoa, Kevin Smith of Camillus, Kelli (Joseph) Sweeny of Onondaga Hill, and Laurie (Robert) Arnold of Cazenovia, his older brother, Edward “Bub” Smith, 16 grandchildren and many great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

A calling hour will be held on Friday, April 4th, 2025 from 9:00 AM-10:00 AM at Edward J Ryan & Son Funeral Home, 3180 Bellevue Ave Syracuse NY 13219, followed by a funeral service. Committal and entombment will be at St Mary’s Cemetery, 4100 E Genesee St Dewitt NY. ­

In lieu of flowers please make contributions to the Golisano Children’s Hospital or the Make a Wish Foundation.