W.M. "Billy" Smith, Jr., 86, of Olton, died Monday, November 6, 2023.  Graveside services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, November 9, 2023, at Olton Cemetery under the direction of Ramage Funeral Directors. The funeral home will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., Thursday, November 9, for anyone wanting to sign Billy's book.

Billy was born June 19, 1937, in Olton, Texas, to W.M. Sr, and Eloyce (Bennett) Smith. He graduated from Olton High School in 1955 and attended Abilene Christian College for a year where he met his future wife, Geneva Bosley.  On June 22, 1956, Billy married Geneva and they were married for near 66 years.  Billy was a pilot and enjoyed flying and crop dusting. He owned and operated Wood-Jordan International Harvesters and he was a farmer.  Billy farmed in Mexico and around the Olton area for many years.  He enjoyed harvest time and in his later years would drive around the farm watching as harvest took place and stop for an occasional meal in the field.  An avid fisherman, Billy went on many fishing trips with friends to Venezuela, Mexico, the Amazon, and all around Texas. He always had a story to tell and it was rare to hear the same one twice.

Billy was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Geneva Smith, in 2022, and his son, Nicky Smith, in 2000.

Survivors include his son, Ricky Smith and wife Deborah of Alto, N.M. and his daughter, Kelli Smith and husband Booner of Olton. He was blessed with five grandchildren: Chris Smith, Crystal Salinas and husband Jeremy, Logan Smith and fiance McKenzie Sandefur, Zepplin Smith and wife Treva, and Bonham Smith and six great-grandchildren.

The family suggests memorials be made to the Olton Volunteer Ambulance Association PO Box 1087 Olton, Texas 79064.