William Smith

1930 - 2019 San Jose, CA

Bill Smith passed away peacefully after a 6 1/2 year decline and complications of Lewy Body Dementia. He was 88 years old.

Bill was born in Massachusetts to Martha and William Smith, both born in Scotland. Raised in the tenements of South Boston, he started working at age 14 at Fenway Park selling ice cream bars. He graduated from Boston University with a degree in Business, and from the Massachusetts Military Academy as a 2nd Lieutenant in the Army’s 26th Infantry Division Recon Company where he taught tank gunnery and was an aide to the general.

Bill started his 43 year career with John Hancock Insurance as a “runner” at age 17. After college and the Army he continued as an Insurance Broker and a Financial Planner. He was transferred to California in 1967, and settled in the Almaden Valley area of San Jose where he continued his career. After retiring from John Hancock, he continued working independently for many more years. He was a member of the National Association on Underwriters for 36 years.

Bill was a charter member of the Almaden Valley Rotary Club where he held the offices of President, Vice President, Director, and Sergeant at Arms. He initiated the Children’s Shelter Christmas Project, and spent many years putting “service above self”.

Bill loved all sports, and spent many happy and exuberant hours cheering on his teams. He was also an excellent tennis player, enjoying his court time at Almaden Valley Swim and Racquet Club.

Travel was in his blood, and he and his wife traveled to many wonderful places. Their special piece of paradise was their condo on the island of Molokai, Hawaii where they spent much of their free time for 26 years, and made many good friends.

Bill is survived by his wife of 45 years, and their blended family of 6 children. He also leaves behind 7 wonderful grandkids.

Bill was an intelligent, ethical, kind, caring, compassionate, and humorous man who never lost his Boston accent. He will be missed!

A special thanks to those friends who stayed by his side through his illness. Also thank you to all the staff and caregivers at Palm Villa’s Campbell Memory Care Center for their understanding and loving care.

No services at Bill’s request.