William Smith

William J. Smith, 95, of Columbia City, passed away on October 31, 2020, at Miller's at Oak Pointe in Columbia City. Born in Broughton, Pennsylvania, on August 5, 1925, to the late Joseph and Agnes (Sorger) Smith. He spent his formative years in Mansfield, Ohio, graduating from Mansfield High School. William served in the United States Navy during the World War II. William was married to Mary Anna Bogan on February 22, 1946. She preceded him in death on December 14, 1973. Later he was married to Betty J. Knafel on September 1, 1977. She preceded him on March 22, 2020. He worked as a conductor for Conrail Railroad for 44 years, retiring in 1986. William was a member at St. John's Lutheran Church, Lake Township, the American Legion Post 381, Rome city and the Disabled Veterans Chapter 13. He is survived by a son, Al (Karen) Smith, three step-sons, William J. McBride, George H. (Monica) McBride and Daniel P. McBride; a step-daughter, Jennie (Clifford) Householder; a sister, Grace Witzel; ten grandchildren and seventeen great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by two sons, Alex and Barry Smith; two sisters, Olive Green and Ester McConkey; a daughter-in-law, Ardis Smith in 2000; a step-daughter-in-law, Cindy McBride in 2015. A private family service will take place. Burial will take place at Eel River Cemetery. Memorials will be to St. John's Lutheran Church, Lake Township, Mount Zion Lutheran Church, LaGrange or Taylor University Barry Smith Endowment Scholarship. All memorials please direct to the care of Sheets & Childs Funeral Home. Online note to the family at www.sheetsandchilds.com.