William Lewis Smith, Jr.

William Lewis Smith, Jr., known affectionately as Lewis, was a man who dedicated his life to his career and cherished his family. Born in Alabama on March 27, 1954, he grew up embracing the values of hard work, humility, and love for the outdoors. Lewis peacefully passed away at USA Health University Hospital on November 5, 2023.

Lewis spent over 35 years as an auto mechanic shop foreman, truly dedicated to his craft. His commitment and expertise were unrivaled, earning him the respect and admiration of colleagues and customers alike. Throughout his career, he consistently demonstrated a steadfast work ethic and unwavering passion for all things automotive.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Lewis's indomitable spirit and warm personality left an indelible mark on those who knew him best. His family lovingly describes him as a "marshmallow wrapped in a porcupine," illustrating his unique combination of tenderness and strength. Lewis was a one-of-a-kind individual who lived life on his terms with quiet strength and grace.

Lewis possessed an array of admirable qualities, making him an exceptional individual. He was inherently private yet radiated love towards his family. As a loving husband, he and Peggy were inseparable since their teenage years, sharing a marriage that spanned over half a century - an accomplishment of which he was immensely proud.

To those closest to him, Lewis was a reliable confidant who gave sage advice from the heart. Folks often sought his counsel knowing that he would offer genuine guidance with honesty and care. Additionally, he had a playful side that brought laughter to countless gatherings. With an unmatched wit and talent for joking around, Lewis had the remarkable ability to lighten any room's atmosphere.

Although soft-spoken by nature, Lewis was never shy about speaking his mind when it came to matters close to his heart. He possessed strong convictions that he fearlessly shared with others, making his voice heard with sincerity and respect.

Beyond his dedication to his work and family, Lewis had a deep love for hobbies that allowed him to connect with nature and pursue his passions. He found solace in hunting, fishing, farming, gardening, and raising livestock and hound dogs. An avid fan of car races, Alabama football, and the Atlanta Braves baseball team, Lewis truly embodied the spirit of a country boy at heart.

Lewis leaves behind his beloved wife of 50 years, Peggy Smith; their son, Brandon Lewis Buster Smith (Tiffany); and grandchildren, Ronnie and Ryann. His presence will be dearly missed by his surviving siblings, Bonnie Lawley (Leonard), Theresa Scott, and Priscilla Hammon (Todd). He also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews who cherished their uncle's wise words and kind-hearted nature, and many other relatives and friends.

Lewis was preceded in death by his parents, Blondie and Donice Smith; siblings, Larry D. Smith, Donald H. Creamer, Gillian Smith, Robert Johnson; grandparents, Grace Bradley Varden (Samuel) and George Pierce; as well as grandparents, Fred and Pauline Smith. They welcomed him into eternal rest with open arms.

A wake will be held from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM Thursday, November 09, 2023 at Freeman Funeral Home. Funeral service will be at 11:00 AM Friday, November 10, 2023, at Freeman Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens.

Lewis's memory will forever resonate with the countless friends he made along the way – true hunting companions who shared the thrill of the chase through forests and fields. The impact he had on their lives through shared experiences and unwavering camaraderie will be cherished forever.

In celebration of Lewis's life, let us remember him as a dedicated professional, a loving husband, a trusted friend – a man whose quiet strength touched the hearts of all those fortunate enough to have known him. His legacy lives on through the memories he created with those closest to him. May he find eternal peace in the vast hunting grounds of heaven, forever surrounded by the beauty of nature that he held so dear.

Lewis is now giving us a "ROLL TIDE" from heaven and saying, "Guess what? I got to meet Paul "Bear" Bryant!".