Billy Lee Smith, 77, passed away after an extended illness on June 13, 2020 in Buford.
Billy was born December 6, 1942 in Atlanta to John “Tennessee” and Carolyn Smith. His father was a gospel and country western singer, performing as one of the Sunshine Boys and also with The Smith Brothers. Music always held a very special place in Billy’s life. He was a member of Oak Hill Baptist Church in Williamson, where he played the clarinet in their band and served as a deacon for several years.
He graduated from Norman Park College with a degree in Education. He spent his lifetime teaching in Hall and Gwinnett counties. He earned his Master’s Degree at the University of West Georgia. Next, he earned his Specialist in Education degree at Georgia State University. He worked in various educator and administrative roles at Maxwell High School for over 30 years, his final position being Assistant Principal. He was an avid sports fan and especially loved watching the Braves and the Falcons. Even in his later years, he enjoyed attending games at the new stadium to see his beloved Braves.
Billy was preceded in death by his wife of 40 years, Mildred Virginia McBrayer Smith. From their union, they celebrated their five loving children, Tammy (Michael) Cannon, Valerie Smith Hearn, Mark (Claire) Smith, Chris (Ashley) Smith and Amy Smith Wolf; and ten grandchildren, Brittany and Brandon Dudley, Crystal and Alyssa Hearn, Parker Smith, Jonathan, Zachary and Virginia “Ginny” Smith, Derrick and Jessica Wolf.
We would like to say thank you to The Oaks of Braselton for their care and support of Billy throughout the last two years. The staff, nurses and residents loved him very much and were very kind and loving to him to the very end of his life. Billy loved his time there and appreciated his extended family there. A special thank you to Patricia “Pat” McSweeney for making his final months very happy ones.
For those wishing to pay respects, visitation will be from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. at Hamilton Mill Memorial Chapel and Gardens in Buford on Wednesday, June 17, 2020. The family will welcome guests on Thursday, June 18, 2020, at Pineview Holiness Baptist Church. Mr. Smith's memorial service will be held immediately following the visitation on Thursday, June 18, 2020, at Pineview Holiness Baptist Church with Pastor Charles Walker officiating.
Parker Smith, Brandon Dudley, Derrick Wolf, Ethan Schmitt, Tim Hyman and Eric Walker will serve as pallbearers.
In lieu of flowers, your donation to the Parkinson’s Foundation Georgia at parkinson.org/Georgia would be kindly appreciated.