Willard Smith

Willard Michael Smith of Potosi, Missouri departed this life on November 23, 2012 at the Missouri Baptist Medical Center having reached the age of ninety three years, ten months and twenty eight days. He was born on December 26, 1918 in Washington County, Missouri a son to the late William Smith and Letitia (Burghard) Smith.

In addition to his parents, Willard was preceded in death by his wife Irene Smith, brother Eugene Smith, sister Louise Richards and a nephew Glen Smith.

Willard served in the United States Army from 1942-1945 and was a member of the local VWF Post #6996. One the many things that Willard loved were going to the Potosi Livestock sale on Saturday. He was always purchasing cattle. He enjoyed his drive to Furnace Creek to check on his cattle. Willard loved treating himself to a steak dinner. Last but most definitely not least was the love he had for his family. His smile always confirmed that.

Those who remain to mourn his passing are a step daughter Joann Turner and husband Dr. Kirby of Poplar Bluff; four step grandchildren; nephews and nieces Larry Richards and wife Sue, Evelyn Lamkey, Patsy Blair, Carol Carter, Eugene Smith and wife Patty, Art Smith and wife Linda, Sally Patton and husband Laney, Marian Reed and husband Jim and many other nephews, nieces and friends who will sadly miss him.

Funeral services were conducted on Wednesday, November 28, 2012 at 10 AM at the DeClue Chapel with Rev. Wendell Nipper officiating. Serving as pallbearers were Larry Richards, Wayne Lamkey, Art Smith, Laney Patton, Jeff Coleman and Joey Coleman.

Interment and final prayers were held at the Hopewell Cemetery where full military honors were conducted by Local VFW Post #6996 and United States Army. All arrangements were entrusted to the care and direction of the DeClue Family Funeral Home.