Mr. Willard “Bill” Smith, 82, of Barbourville, passed away Thursday morning, November 19, 2020 at Baptist Health Lexington. He was the son of the late Lloyd and Margaret Messer Smith born on July 11, 1938 at Fount.
Bill was a former coal miner and attended the Faith Tabernacle Pentecostal Church. He enjoyed deer hunting, fishing, playing bingo, caring for his horses and discussing politics of the day. He especially loved spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren.
On May 26, 1962, he united in marriage with Jearldine Mills and to this union three children were born.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Jearldine; four sisters, Freda Hensley, Jewell Smith, Cleo McGriff and Dora Pennington and three brothers, Lester, John and Lloyd Jr.
Survivors include his beloved children, Billie Broughton and husband, David, of Barbourville, Joanna Tate and husband, Paul, of Corbin and Jill Johnson and husband, Jerry, of Barbourville; a sister, Patsy Rockwell of Wisconsin; two brothers, Edward Smith and wife, Patricia, of Illinois and Ray Smith of Wisconsin; five grandchildren, Kevin Partin and wife, Marti, Kimberly Brafford and husband, Jimmy, Brandon Warren, Jerra Beth Johnson and Chloe Johnson; six great grandchildren, Sunni Ann Partin, Noah Partin, Cali Jo Reeves, Rayni Reeves, Billa Reeves and Jayda Reeves; among other loved ones and dear friends.
A private family funeral service will be held in the chapel of the Knox Funeral Home Tuesday, November 24 with Rev. Samuel Lawson and Rev. Steve Mayle officiating. He will be laid to rest in the Nan Riley Cemetery.
Casket bearers will be David Broughton, Jerry Johnson, Paul Tate, Kevin parting, Willie Stewart, Jimmy Brafford, Terry Smith and Jimmy Stewart.
A drive-thru visitation will be held at the funeral home Tuesday from 11 A.M. until 12 Noon.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Knox Funeral Home.
Please remember, per the Governor’s mandate effective November 20, 2020 all funeral services will be private. Any person entering the funeral home is expected to be wearing a face covering of some kind at all times including graveside services and maintain the six feet of social distance. We appreciate your help in following these guidelines so we can continue to serve our community during these trying times in the safest manner possible.
