William L. Smiley, 65, passed away at home on February 25, 2025. He was born on February 12, 1960, in Plymouth, Indiana to Jimmy and Lelia (Henry) Smiley.
William graduated from St. Joseph High School, St. Joseph, Michigan with the class of 1978. He proudly served his country with the U.S. Navy as an electrician's mate on the USS Forestall. After honorably serving his country William attended Atlantic Community College in Atlantic County New Jersey receiving his associate’s degree as a Licensed Practical Nurse. He also had a strong passion for music and played the viola in the orchestra and played at the Blue Lake Fine Arts camp and the South Bend Symphony.
William was known as a man who had a free spirit, and he could light up any room that he walked into with just his smile. He truly had a nurse's heart, a man who was empathetic and always could find the good in anyone, and had an amazing outlook on life, truly what so many needed in the moment, a great friend.
He enjoyed camping, golfing, skiing, and playing baseball.
He is survived by his parents Jimmy (Charlotte) Smiley; children: Veronica Smiley, Tara Kent, William Walker, Joshua Smiley; brother James (Sheila) Smiley; sister Connie (George) Bradford; 7-grandchildren and his best friend from the age of 9 Brian Rose.
William is preceded in death by his mother Lelia and sister Nancy Smiley.
Services will take place at a later date. The burial will be in the IOOF Cemetery, Rochester.
Memorial contributions can be made to the family for the cost of the service.
Johnson-Danielson Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements. Condolences can be left for the family at www.johnson-danielson.com
