William J. Smith Jr.

William James Smith, Jr., 62, of Mishawaka IN, formerly of Pigeon, passed away Saturday June 27, 2015 at his home. He was born on October 21, 1952 in Pigeon, Michigan to the late William James & Grace Delores (Kreh) Smith.

On June 4, 1977 in Mishawaka, Indiana he married Nancy Jean Lyle. She survives along with four siblings, Evelyn Smith of Harbor Beach, MI, David Smith of Colorado, Jeanne Smith of Sebewaing, MI and Joanne (Tim) McNeilly of London, KY. Also surviving are seven nieces and nephews and ten great nieces and great nephews.

Bill graduated from Bethel College in Mishawaka in 1978 with a degree in Elementary Education. He was a member of the Northside Church of the Nazarene in Elkhart and was active in the men’s group at the church. He enjoyed helping and assisting other people with not only his equipment but also with his expertise. Bill worked for Bradberry Excavating for two years and was an elementary school teacher with the PHM School system for twenty-eight years, retiring in 2007.

Visitation for family and friends will be for two hours prior to the 1:00 p.m. Thursday July 2, funeral service at the Northside Church of the Nazarene. Pastor Tim Sheets will preside.

A graveside service will be held at 1:00 PM Friday July 3, 2015 at Caseville Township Cemetery in Caseville.
Walley-Mills-Zimmerman Funeral Home and Champagne Funeral Chapel, Elkton are assisting the family with the arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be given to the church or to the Elkhart North Camp of the Gideons International.