Billy Smith Obituary

Billy R. Smith Sr., age 86, passed away on Monday, September 29, 2025, at Atrium Navicent Medical Center in Macon, surrounded by his family. Funeral services will be held on Friday, October 3, 2025, at Mathis Funeral Home in Cochran. Visitation will be at 1:00 p.m., followed by the funeral service at 2:00 p.m. Burial will take place in Bethany Baptist Church Cemetery with military honors.

Born on March 24, 1939, in Bleckley County, Billy was the son of the late George Dewitt and Annie Mae Smith. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Nancy Smith; his daughter, Mary Denise Smith; and his siblings Raymond, Oliver, Claude, Bea, Helen, Georgia, Virginia, and Patricia.

Billy attended Cochran High School before enlisting in the United States Coast Guard at the age of 16. He proudly served his country for 21 years and earned numerous distinguished honors during his military career. His commendations included the National Defense Service Medal with one star; Vietnam Service Medal with four stars; Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device; Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citation; and the Presidential Unit Citation.

Following his military service, Billy spent over two decades working in the shipping industry in Savannah. He held positions with US Lines and NYK Shipping Company, where he served as M&R Manager. He also played a key role in establishing the International Longshoremen's Maintenance local charter.

Upon returning to Cochran, Billy continued to serve his community as a building inspector and later as a Bleckley County Commissioner. His dedication to public service reflected his lifelong commitment to helping others.

Billy was a proud member of the Shriners and was recently honored with a distinguished 50-year award. He was an avid Georgia fan and found joy in tending to his land and caring for his goats.

He is survived by his wife, Sallie B. Smith; his brother Wilson; and his children: Linda Smith (Dennis) Kijowski of Ponte Vedra, FL; Bill (Sheryl) Smith of Kildare; Gary (Janice) Smith of Mesa, AZ; Regena McClure of Cochran; Cindy (David) Mangrum of Fayetteville, NC; Jonathan (Holly) Smith of Kildare; Kenny (Elaine) Bowman of McRae; LaDawn Rycroft of Cochran; Wanda (Emory) Howell of Cochran; and Rhonda (Philip) Fordham of Cochran. He also leaves behind 20 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Billy's caretakers-Ms. Lisa, Ms. Jane, and Ms. Carol-for their devoted care over the years. A special thank you is also given to Steve Daniels for his enduring friendship and support.

The family is gathered at 696 GA Highway 112.

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