William Thomas Smith Jr.
William Thomas Smith Jr.
W.T. was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle. He was a faithful friend, devout follower of Jesus, and honorable public servant. He is preceded in death by his bride, Eileen, who passed away last July; his sister, Margie Glover; his parents; and several friends and loved ones.
He is survived by his daughters, sons-in-law, grandchildren and greatgrandchildren: Julie and Brent Davis (Jeremy, Jarrod, Beau and Casey) of Bixby, Oklahoma; Wendy and Stacy Flynn of Willis; Brandi and Matt Banks (Atticus, Hazel, Eloise and Birdie) of San Marcos; fun-loving sister, Shirley Myers; nieces and nephew - Penny McCarty, Debbie Sue Young, Diane Dyer, Robin Myers, Robbi Lauden and Ronnie Glover; as well as many beloved friends who might as well be family. Of course, we can’t forget Lulu, his “true” baby girl (Yorkie) and constant companion. He and Eileen first met as skating partners at the local roller rink. After returning from Vietnam, he made sure she didn’t get away and made her his bride. Together, they shared 55 years of love and laughter and service to others. He was a loving father to his three daddy’s girls, supporting them to pursue every dream. He is remembered by most for his one-of-a-kind humor, his generosity, his love and his devotion to Christ.
W.T. served as sheriff of Burnet County from Jan. 1, 2009 to Dec. 31, 2016. He began his career in law enforcement with the San Antonio Police Department in 1968, serving in patrol, criminal intelligence and homicide divisions. He was a certified instructor, a Master Peace Officer and a Master Jailer. He received numerous awards and worked many high-profile cases throughout his career. He was a graduate of Southwest Texas State University with a bachelors of science degree in law enforcement. He was also a graduate of the FBI National Academy Session 186. He served on numerous boards and committees in both a professional and private capacity and was also a licensed Baptist minister.
He served in the U.S. Army from March 1966 to February 1968, serving in both Europe and Vietnam. He received the following awards and decorations: National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, two Overseas Service Stars, Vietnam Expeditionary Force Medal and a Bronze Star.
Visitation will be held at Clements-Wilcox Funeral Home in Marble Falls on Monday, May 19 from 5-7 p.m. A Celebration of Life will be held at Hill Country Fellowship Church in Burnet on Tuesday, May 20 at 10 a.m., followed by a graveside service with military honors at Lakeland Hills Memorial Park in Burnet.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to one of these charities that were close to his heart - The 100 Club of Central Texas, Highland Lakes Family Crisis Center (previously serving on their board of directors) and CRU (formerly Campus Crusade for Christ). Several companies will match donations to these organizations. The family is very grateful for the support of family and friends over the last year and the outpouring of prayer and encouragement from the community and law enforcement agencies. We rejoice in the hope of our future reunion, made possible by the sacrifice of our Lord & Savior, Jesus Christ.
Condolences may be made at: www.clementswilcoxfuneralhome.com.
