William H Smith

William “Bill” Herman Smith, 86, born in Detroit Michigan, on August 29, 1933, passed away on February 15, 2020 due to complications from chronic leukemia. William was a corporal during the Korean War Era in the Army National Guard. He graduated from Dondero High School located in Royal Oak, MI in 1962. He later graduated from a Missionary studies course through the Lutheran Church. He learned French, at the Paris Institute of Language Studies as preparation for the mission field. William was a missionary to Garoua Boulai, Cameroon, Africa from 1965-1968, serving as a house parent in the children’s home. He opened his first bicycle shop in 1952 in Berkley, MI. Moving to Cookeville, TN in 1985, he opened Smith’s Bikery and owned it until his retirement in 1997. He was an avid bicycle rider and a lover of VW Bugs. He was a member of Friendship United Methodist Church where he enjoyed teaching Sunday school. William is preceded in death by his parents Herman and Gertrude Smith, brother Howard Lee, and son Daniel Smith. Left behind is his wife of 42 years, Diane Smith and his children William Smith, Mark Smith, Elisabeth DelBene, John Smith, Ann Smith, Ruth Caldwell, Scot Atyeo, Matt Atyeo, and Susan Smith (adopted). He is also survived by two brothers Norman and Roger Smith, many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and friends. Service will be held at Friendship United Methodist Church on February 23, 2020 at 2pm. Visitation will be, at 1pm, for one hour prior to service. Internment at Smith’s Chapel Cemetery following the service. In lieu of flowers please make donations to Cookeville Rescue Mission, 1331 S Jefferson Ave, Cookeville, TN 38506. Dyer Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-7158 Share your thoughts and memories at www.dyerfh.com.