Rev. William E. Smith

William Elijah Smith, 83, moved on to sing with the saints in heaven on March 10, 2021. Bill served as a minister and pastor for over 50 years in several local Free Will Baptist churches, then finished his ministry where it began at Crum Chapel Baptist Independent. He was born on February 22, 1938, to the late Willie and Bertha Smith and was preceded in death by his brother, James Smith, sister, Margaret Ryan, and brother in law John Powers. He is survived by his loving wife, Sue, of more than 56 years, and four children that were his pride and joy: Crystal Slutz (Ben) of Ashland, KY; Jeff Smith (Nancy) of Ashland, KY; Heather Brammell (Keith) of Graniteville, SC; and Misty Hagan (Bob) of Seneca, SC. He was blessed with four grandchildren, whom he adored: Micheal Johnson (Abby), Kristen Stark (Clayton), Katie Castle, and Jake Smith. To Bill, love knew no boundaries, and as his family grew, he warmly welcomed additional grandchildren, Courtney Gill, Ryan Hagan (Cindy), Laura Donta and Darren Brammell (Brittany). He was also blessed with great-grandchildren: Luke Johnson, Levi Johnson, Clay Stark, Clay’s sister on the way, Aaron Parks (Amber), Manning Gill, Jake Donta, Brooklyn Brammell and Bentley Brammell, and great-great grandchild Harley. Bill is also survived by his brother David Smith (Linda), sister Donna Huff (Jim), special cousin Leona Eberts (Gene), sister in law Sheila Smith, brother in law Mike Powers (Donna), sister in law Danna Powers, and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. Bill was a veteran, stationed in Korea while serving his country for four years with the Air Force. He worked as a stenographer for CSX Railroad for 43 years until his retirement while also serving as pastor to several local churches. Bill and Sue lived life to the fullest after his retirement from CSX, spending time visiting family and traveling to southern gospel songfests. Those who called him husband, dad, papaw, brother, uncle, pastor, and friend will not forget his jolly laugh, witty sense of humor, strong singing voice and love of the Lord. His family and friends are comforted knowing he is in the arms of his Savior. Bill’s face will be missed but his presence will be felt for generations to come. Funeral services will be conducted 1:00 PM Saturday, March 13, 2021 at Miller Funeral Home by Bro. Danny Laney. Burial will follow at Rose Hill Burial Park, with military honors, conducted by the Kenova American Legion Post 93. The family will receive friends from 10:00 AM till 1:00 PM Saturday at the funeral home.

Rev. William E. Smith

February 22, 1938 - March 10, 2021