William C. Smith

William Cecil Smith (74) of Longs, South Carolina passed away on Sunday, March 24th 2024 at Embrace Hospice House after a battle with lung cancer.

He was born on December 4th 1949, in Chester, Pennsylvania, to the late Rufus Smith and Eltha Cox. Bill joined the Army after graduating from Oakridge High School in Orlando Florida and married his high school sweetheart Dianne Caulder. He dedicated his time to the Army Reserves after his military service. Bill was an avid car lover, especially Mustang GTs. His career was spent perfecting the craft of auto body work and many of his paint jobs were award winning. Bill retired as owner of Deluxe Paint & Body Shop in Hickory, NC.

His hobbies included car shows, back porch sitting and grilling, spending time with his family, and good beach days. You would find a smile on his face for anyone who entered the room. If he met you once, he would remember your name.

Bill was baptized and a former member of Tri-City Baptist Church in Conover, NC.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his sister Donna Ward, beloved grandson Blake Smith, and nephew Troy Ward.

Those left to cherish his memory are:

High school sweetheart and love of his life for 59 years Dianne C. Smith

Son: William C. Smith Jr. and wife Susy of Hickory, NC.

Daughter: Jennifer Smith Stamp and husband John Stamp of New London, NC.

Grandchildren: Drew Isenhour and wife La’Meisha of Mt. View NC.

Tyler Stamp of Denver, CO.

Tanner Stamp of Boone, NC

Great Grandchildren: Tessa and Karleigh Isenhour

Nieces and Nephews: Deanna Isenhour, Valerie Cosenza, Billy Ward, Cerce Ward, Shawn Ward, and Christopher Ward

A celebration of life service will be held on Thursday, April 11th, 2024, at 1:00 pm at the Catawba Funeral Home with Jim Stamp officiating. Followed by  graveside service at Catawba Memorial Park at 2:00pm, 3060 US-70 Hickory, NC 29603

Officiated by Jim Stamp

Cremation Services Direct (843-651-1194) is assisting the family with the arrangements.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.