William “Bill” Robert Smith of Mountain Home, Arkansas, passed away April 24, 2025, in Mountain Home, Arkansas at the age of 86. He was born September 27, 1938, in Pensacola, Florida, the son of Malcolm and Cecile Pape Smith. Bill married Patricia L. Strother on February 15, 1959, and together they raised two children. He built a distinguished career as a Transportation Attorney, working for several companies before serving over 20 years as Director of Logistics for Tenneco Chemical, Inc. Later, he founded WRS Logistics, where he provided legal counseling within the transportation industry. His expertise and leadership were recognized nationally as he served on a committee reporting to the Secretary of Transportation, advising three U.S. presidents during his tenure.
Beyond his professional achievements, Bill had a passion for the outdoors and the water. He was an accomplished deep-sea fisherman with a captain’s license, a master diver, and an avid waterskier and swimmer. In Florida, he often assisted with search and rescue operations. He also enjoyed hunting, woodworking, and piloting airplanes. Bill always pursued his interests with dedication, skill, and a deep desire to fully understand and master everything he did.
On August 9, 2002, Bill married Julia Jablonski. Their love was celebrated again on October 26, 2002, with a joyful wedding surrounded by friends and family. In January of 2012, Bill and Julie joined Good Shepherd Methodist Church, where they found a deeply cherished community. Bill’s faith was central to his life, and he considered his church family an extension of his own. Known for his generosity and infectious sense of humor, Bill loved to make others laugh. His playful spirit and kind heart left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.
Bill is survived by his wife, Julie Smith of Mountain Home, AR; children, Stephanie (John) Smith-Hartman of Safety Harbor, FL, and William Robert (Brenda) Smith, Jr. of Port Charlotte, FL; and granddaughter, Melissa Lynn Smith of Oldsmar, FL.
He was preceded in death by his parents; first wife, Patricia Smith; and brother, Malcolm E. Smith, Jr.
A Celebration of Life for Bill will be 11:00 am, Saturday, May 24, 2025, at Good Shepherd Methodist Church, with Reverend Jimmie Snow officiating.
Memorials may be made to Hospice of the Ozarks, 811 Burnett Drive, Mountain Home, AR, 72653.
Arrangements are by Kirby and Family Funeral and Cremation Services – Mountain Home, Arkansas. Visit an online obituary and guestbook at www.kirbyandfamily.com.
Click here to visit the Kirby & Family Funeral & Cremation Services website and sign the guest book.
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