William H. Smith

On September 11, 2026, the world became a little quieter when William H. Smith (Bill)-a man known for his witty sense of humor, enormous generosity, kind heart, deep patience, and remarkable capacity for love-passed away at the age of 82. Bill was born in Detroit and raised in Grosse Pointe, Michigan, where he learned the values that shaped his life: work hard, tell the truth, and take care of the people you love. Those early lessons stayed with him, guiding the way he moved through the world. Over the years, he became known for the qualities that made him unforgettable: his quick, clever wit; the calm steadiness he brought to every situation; his devotion to his family; and the way he could tell a story so well that people leaned in, laughed hard, or felt something deeply. Bill was a passionate collector, hunter and loved fishing; he enjoyed his hunting property with his family and friends. He was well known in the marine industry including pleasure boating and boat racing. A natural entrepreneur and gifted engineer, Bill built a long and respected career as the owner of Henry H. Smith & Co., a marine propulsion repair and manufacturing shop, that was in the family for over 100 years. His inventive mind and hands-on ingenuity shaped the business into a trusted name in the industry. He was not only a skilled craftsman but an inventor of the “Mr. Minus” propellor that was patented through Dymex Propellers. The propeller gave greater speed and torque while reducing fuel consumption and reducing the noise levels in the cockpit of the boat. Bill was someone who saw possibilities where others saw problems. His work reflected the same qualities he embodied in life - precision, creativity, and a quiet determination to make things better. Bill was a devoted husband to Karen, and a loving father to Debra (Jim), William (Bill) (Deborah), Kimberly (Alan), and Jennifer (Scott). He cherished his role as a grandfather to Shelby, Brendan, Kristy, Matthew, Joshua, Raelan, Andrew (Cheyenne), Ryan, Nathan (Kaley), Michael and Kayla. His joy only grew with the arrival of his great-grandchildren: Juliette, Thomas, and Bodie. Each of them carries a piece of his humor, his steadiness, and his love. Bill is preceded in death by his parents, Patricia Marie Smith and William H. Smith Sr., as well as his siblings, Marian Smith, Judy Moody and Edward Smith. Their memories remained close to his heart throughout his life. A funeral Mass will be held on October 3, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Holy Family Catholic Church, 79780 Main St., Memphis, MI 48041. A celebration of life will follow at 11:30 a.m. in the Holy Family Church Hall, where family and friends will gather to share stories, laughter, and memories of Bill’s remarkable life. He leaves behind a family who will continue to honor him by living with the same kindness, humor, and courage he showed every day. His legacy is not only in the life he lived, but in the lives he shaped. Arrangements in care of Jowett Funeral Home – 57737 Gratiot, New Haven. Jowett Funeral Home is privileged to serve the Smith Family.

William H. Smith

February 9, 1944 - September 11, 2026