Billy Leroy Smithson

Billy Leroy Smithson, 74, of Winslow passed away peacefully on Thursday, Jan. 8, 2015, at the Willard Walker Hospice Home, with his loved ones by his side. He was born March 12, 1940, in Prague, Okla., to William Henry and Attie Smithson. He was preceded in death by his parents, William Henry and Attie Smithson; and a sister, Thelma Hazelwood. Billy was a longtime employee of Mexican Original where he was a maintenance man, and had made several friends there. He loved the outdoors, loved fishing and camping with his family. He loved raking hay in the summertime and keeping his yard looking nice and neat. Billy loved sitting on his porch swing looking at nature and drinking coffee with his loving wife. He was such a loving husband, father and grandfather as well as a great-grandfather. Billy is survived by his wife, Clara Smithson, whom he married in 1958; two children, Duane Smithson of Winslow, and Pam Bartel and husband, David, of Winslow; seven grandchildren, Angella, Leona, Sabrina, Catrina, Rachelle, Bradley and Abbey; 16 great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 12, 2015, at the First Baptist Church Greenland, with Eric Howerton officiating. Interment will follow in Baptist Ford Cemetery, under the direction of Beard's Chapel. There is no scheduled visitation. Condolences at www.beardsfuneralchapel.com.