William "Bill" H. Smith, Jr., 79, died on March 1, 2024, at the Hospice House in Sun City Center, Florida. He leaves behind his wife of 44 years, Louise Smith, a stepson, Donald Gregory Fletcher of North Port, nieces Kelly Cullinane of Tampa, Doreen Cook of Jacksonville, and Dawn Crouch of Webster, Florida, and a nephew, James Cullinane of Orlando, Fl., as well as several great nieces and nephews, and many friends. Bill was born in Atlanta, Georgia to Helen and William Smith on January 9, 1945. Bill graduated from Mercer University and became a lieutenant in the Navy during the Vietnam War. After an honorable discharge from the Navy, Bill began a long career with GTE. After leaving GTE Bill ventured into a computer business with fellow GTE employees but ultimately made a career change when he became a massage therapist and opened his business-Apollo Beach Massage Therapy. Bill and Louise spent their free time traveling the world together and lived in Georgia, North Carolina, and Florida. Bill enjoyed living by the water and boating. He spent many hours on the water enjoying the beautiful Florida weather. Bill will be missed by all who knew and loved him.




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