William Robert Smith, Jr.

YORK- William Robert Smith, Jr., 73, passed away unexpectedly on November 26, 2023 at his residence.

Billy was born in York on February 7, 1950, the son of Raejeanne Y. (Miller) Smith of York and the late William R. Smith, Sr.,

Along with his mother, Raejeanne; he is survived by a brother, Dennis G. Smith of York and a sister, Michele E. (Smith) Buser of Wrightsville.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Glenn P. Smith, and brother-in-law, Richard A. Buser.

Billy was a 1968 graduate of William Penn Senior High.

He discovered early in his life that he had a knack for building and fixing things. This led him to pursue a career as a devoted Boilermaker and to also become a Master Mason. Often holding managerial positions due to his extensive knowledge in his craft, one of his most honored was his role as Superintendent of Brunner Island Power Plant. Billy had a clear passion for his work with an exceptional skillset to match. He would recall with a smile, many instances where he was the “go-to guy” when a complex problem would arise. On any given jobsite, you could hear his peers say, “Go get slick Willy”, when his expertise was required to get the job done. After a rewarding career, he retired from the Boilermakers Union Local #13 of Philadelphia.

In addition to his siblings, Billy was the proud uncle of four nieces; Molly Smith, Laura Looks, Sierra Cunningham, Sadie Buser and three nephews; Adam Smith, Christian Buser, Kieran Buser, as well as great nieces and nephews.

Some of Billy’s happiest memories were spent hunting, fishing, and spending time with his brothers. He had a keen love for conservation and animals and was a loyal fan of the New York Yankees. Billy was also a car enthusiast, with a particular interest in sports cars. He will be deeply missed for the many traits that made him the son, brother, uncle, and friend that he was. Most especially of those traits are his hearty laugh, his storytelling, and his kind spirit. His legacy will live on forever through the family members and friends who loved him.

A celebration of life service will be held 7 p.m. on Wednesday, December 6, 2023 at Heffner Funeral Chapel & Crematory, Inc., 1551 Kenneth Rd in York, with a viewing from 5-7 p.m. Reverend Forrest “Bud” Bish will be officiating at the service. A private burial will be held at Mount Rose Cemetery in York.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105. stjude.org/memorial

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