William Joseph "Smitty" Smith

William Joseph “Smitty” Smith, age 62, passed away on May 30, 2025. Born on September 19, 1962, Bill lived a life marked by generosity, humor, and deep love for his family and friends.

A welder by trade and a man of many passions, Bill was an avid hunter and a dedicated motorcycle enthusiast, and very proud of his country as well as the time he spent defending it in the U.S. Navy. But above all else, he was someone who would give you the shirt off his back without hesitation—always putting others before himself. If you were lucky enough to have Bill in your corner, you knew it. His loyalty and heart ran deeper than any sea he had sailed.

He was known for his larger-than-life personality, his kindness, and his ability to say the silliest things just to get a smile, a laugh, or an awkward silence out of anyone nearby. He loved fiercely and lived fully.

Bill is survived by his beloved fiancée, Denise Warnock; his sons, Billy and Shane Smith (Shaunna Henderson); and his cherished granddaughter, Iris Smith. He also leaves behind his sisters, Brenda Basalla (George) and Peggy Gregory; his brother, Brian Smith.

He was preceded in death by parents Bill Smith, as well as Betty and Larry Clancy.

Calling hours will be held on Monday, June 9, 2025, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., followed by a Mass of Christian Burial from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., all at St. Leo the Great Catholic Church 4940 Broadview Rd, Cleveland, OH 44109.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in Bill’s memory to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation at www.t2t.org, an organization that honors our nation's first responders and veterans.

Bill's laugh, his stories, and his unwavering love will be missed dearly, but never forgotten.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to Slone & Co. Funeral Directors.