Bill R. Smith

Bill was born in Sulphur, OK on April 16, 1940, to Hubert and Lucille Smith. Bill passed away on September 23, 2018 at home surrounded by his family. He grew up in McAlester, OK. At the age of 17, he joined the Navy and served 4 years active duty and 26 years in the Reserves, retiring with a total of 30 years of service. Bill lived in the Norman and Noble area during the years 1962 through 2003. He raised 2 children, Steve and Susan. During this time Bill earned retirements from Tinker Air Force Base and the University of Oklahoma. In addition to holding down these full-time jobs, he also worked as a barber. In 2003, Bill married Regina and moved to Shawnee where he owned and operated Bill’s Barber Shop until 2017.Bill was a devoted family man. He and Regina enjoyed dancing, traveling, and spending time with friends. He loved music and spent time learning to play the steel guitar. He loved his children and enjoyed watching his grandchildren play sports.As a barber, Bill made many valued friends. His customers became like family, and he would often go to their homes to give haircuts when they were unable to go to the barber shop. Bill is survived by his wife, Regina Smith of the home; children, Steven Smith and wife Rachel of Aztec, NM; Susan Bennett and husband Philip of Purcell, OK; Andy Selfridge and wife Nonie of Cushing, OK; grandchildren Caitlin Derrick; Stuart Smith; Kylee Rae Ann Bennett; Carter Bennett; Riccardo Habili and Gloria Selfridge and Sister in Law Mary Smith of Agra, OK.Bill was preceded in death by his parents; brother Herbert Dale and son Douglas Ray Smith.The family will gather at Walker Funeral Home in Shawnee on Friday, September 28th from 5 to 7 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be on Saturday, September 29th at 10:00 AM at St. Benedict Catholic Church, 632 N. Kickapoo, Shawnee, OK, Fr. Schwarz officiating. Immediately preceding the funeral service, the Navy Two Bell Ceremony will be held at 9:45 in the church gathering space. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery. The family wishes to thank Dr. Namali Pierson and nurse Laura of Norman Oncology and Loving Care Hospice for their kind and compassionate care.