It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of William M. Smith, formerly of Dedham, Massachusetts, who passed away on January 24, 2026.
Born on January 29, 1948, in Fayetteville, Tennessee, to Hugh Smith and Hilda (Nichols) Smith, Will was a faithful servant of Jesus Christ. He was raised at Harms Church of Christ and on his family’s farm, where he developed a lifelong love of faith, family, and his Savior.
Will attended Tennessee Tech University, where he studied engineering and graduated near the top of his class, earning admission to graduate studies in Materials Science at MIT. While living in the Boston area, he met the love of his life, Joyce, who was serving as a Boston Public School teacher. They shared a marriage of over 50 years, deeply rooted in faith, devotion, and love. Will embraced the Catholic tradition, continuing his lifelong devotion to Christ and the Church.
After adjusting his professional path, Will proudly earned his MBA from Harvard Business School, Class of 1977. Over the course of his career, he served in many roles—engineer, materials scientist, businessman, and high school and college instructor. Most recently, he worked closely with his son Daniel and was awarded three patents, including the AIM Fiber Connector, accomplishments that brought him great joy.
Will was known for his humility, intellectual curiosity, and genuine kindness. He loved his neighbors, delighted in meeting new people, and formed friendships easily wherever he went. He was a member of several professional organizations, including IEEE and TIA.
Will was a devoted husband and a wonderful father, imparting to his children warmth, kindness, a love of learning, and deep compassion for others. He is preceded in death by his parents, Hugh and Hilda Smith, and his siblings Joe, Virginia Ann, and Mary. He is survived by his beloved wife Joyce; his sons Hugh and Daniel; his daughter Meredith; and his many nieces, nephews, and extended family.
The family is deeply grateful to Will’s friends and to the compassionate doctors and nurses at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center for their care and accompaniment.
Friends and family are invited to a viewing on Thursday, February 5, from 4:00–7:00 p.m. at the George F. Doherty & Sons Wilson-Cannon Funeral Home, 456 High Street Dedham. All are welcome to attend the Mass of Christian Burial on Friday, February 6, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary of the Assumption Church, 420 High Street Dedham (accessible parking in the rear of the church). Interment will follow at Brookdale Cemetery, Dedham. Details regarding the mercy meal will be announced at the Mass.