William Lee Smith, better known as Billy or Papa, passed away at his home in Sanger, Texas on Monday, August 11, 2025. He was born in Denton, Texas on December 23, 1941 to Howard and Anna Smith. Billy worked as a truck driver and prior to that he had his own dump truck and excavating business.  He enjoyed playing his guitar and watching his westerns. He also enjoyed working on his tractors and his trucks. He loved traveling with his amazing wife, Marian to Branson and was ready to book his next cruise once he got all better. His most favorite time was when his grandkids came to see him. He loved playing with them. After he retired, he enjoyed spending his time with all 40 grandchildren and their spouses, 29 great grandchildren and his one newest love his great-great grandbaby, Braxtin. Grandma and Papa worked hard together to attend as many birthday parties, events and graduations as possible.

Billy loved the Lord with all his heart and enjoyed going to church. He was a pillar of a man. His legacy he leaves behind was formed and etched in history by the life that he lived. The example that he set. He set the standard high. He led well and loved deep.

He is preceded in death by his late wife, Dottye Mae (Bland) Smith, his parents, Grandfathers and Grandmothers, his brother Sammy Smith, his sister Mary Sweeney, sister Linda Kimbrough, sister Patsy Edwards.

Billy is survived by his wife Marian Smith, sister Sandra E. Warren, Daughter Donna Bishop, Son Billy Wayne Smith, Son Randy L. Smith and wife, Audra, Son Ricky L. Smith and wife, Jamie. Daughter Kristen J. Wallace and husband Tony, Daughter Gail Poland and husband, Mark, Daughter Shelly Royea and husband, John, Son Jack Braughler and wife, Jamie, a lot of grandchildren, great grandchildren and his great-great grandbaby, Braxtin.

Viewing and visitation will be held from 5:00PM to 7:00PM on Thursday, August 14, 2025 at DeBerry Funeral Directors. Funeral services are scheduled for 10:00AM, Friday at Calvary UPC on Sherman Drive in Denton. Billy will be laid to rest following the service at Roselawn Memorial Park.