William Taylor "Bill" Smith

William Taylor “Bill” Smith, 81, passed away Sunday, September 23, 2018 at the Margaret Dozier Hospice House at Big Bend Hospice, surround by his family and loved ones. Bill was born and raised in Tallahassee, the son of Merle and Julian C. Smith. He was a graduate of Leon High School where he was President of the student body. Bill was proud to be an Eagle scout and received the prestigious God and Country Award. He graduated from Florida State University with a degree in Industrial Management. He was President and a lifetime member of the Sigma Chi fraternity, and served on their National Board of Directors; and was also a life member of the FSU Alumni Association. Following his graduation from FSU, he entered the family business and was the Vice-President of Flint River Mills, Inc. and General Manager of the F-R-M Ranch and Garden Centers. He served as the President of the Florida Seed Association; vice-chairman of the Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce; chairman of Tallahassee Memorial Hospital Board of Directors; past President of the Exchange club; and many other associated charities and organizations. Bill served previously as Exalted Ruler of the BPOE Elks Lodge #937; founder of Andrew Jackson Savings and Loan; chairman of Barnett Bank advisory board; and the president and co-owner of Plantation Health and Fitness Club. He retired after 27 years as a Realtor associated with NAI Talcor Commercial Real Estate Services. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Cynthia; his son, Jimmy (Michelle); grandsons, Taylor and Jackson; a sister, Judy Davis of Gainesville, Ga; and sister-in-law, Harriette Smith of Bainbridge, GA. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, as well as his brother Drane. Bill was a loving husband, father, and grandfather, he adored his two grandsons, enjoyed traveling, working in his yard and spending may years making wonderful memories with his family and friends at their St. Teresa beach home. A celebration of Bill’s life will be held at Trinity United Methodist Church, Thursday, September 27, 2018 at 11:00 AM. The family will receive friends following the service in Moor Hall. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions made be made to Trinity United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 1086, Tallahassee, FL. 32302; or Big Bend Hospice, 1723 Mahan Center Blvd. Tallahassee, FL. 32308. Rocky Bevis with Bevis Funeral Home (850-385-2193 or www.bevisfh.com) is assisting the Smith family with their arrangements.

Tributes

William Taylor "Bill" Smith

May 4, 1937 - September 23, 2018