William Felton (Billy) Smith, 81, died on Friday, May 29, 2009 in a local hospital after a courageous battle with cancer. He is now at rest with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Funeral services were held on Monday, June 1, 2009 at Cross Keys United Methodist Church with burial in Macon Memorial Park. The Rev. Lee Bennett and Roger Mays conducted the services.

Mr. Smith, son of the late Ferris Felton Smith and Lilla Maude Hatchett, was born on March 8, 1928 in Houston County and had lived in Jones County for the past 52 years. He attended Lanier High in Macon and served his country as a member of the United States Naval Reserve. He retired as an Engineer from Norfolk Southern and as a District Sales Manager from Moorman Feed Mfg. Company.

Mr. Smith was a loyal member of Cross Keys United Methodist Church for 55 years where he served as an usher and was a member of the Joy Sunday School Class. He was a 32nd Degree Master Mason Scottish Rite, Captain of the Al Sihah Mounted Patrol, and a member of The Woodman of the World, GA & TN Walking Horse Assoc., GA Cattleman Assoc., Senior Bowling League, and was a former Jones County Commissioner.

Billy was a faithful and loving son, husband, father and grandfather; a provider and protector of his family that he loved so much. He was affectionately known as “PaPa” to his grandchildren. He was passionate about everything that he set his heart and hands to accomplish. He loved tending livestock on his farm and was an accomplished equestrian. His love of horses and horseback riding continued throughout his life.

Mr. Smith was predeceased by a brother and sister, James Ferris Smith of Macon, and Virlyn S. Ward of Marietta, GA. Mr. Smith is survived by his loving wife, of 59 years, Betty Cook Smith, sons and daughters-in-law William Felton (Bill) Smith, Jr. (Janet) and C. Ferris Smith (Polly), his sister Mary (Jim) Gibbs of Warner Robins, GA, and brother Buck Smith (Barbara) of Gray, GA.; grandchildren Faren, William III (Trey), Katelyn, Ryan and Jessica Smith.