Smith, William Bernice

William Bernice Smith, of Christiansburg, was born on April 18, 1922, to the late Joseph “Smoky Joe” and Eugenia Smith. He departed this life on Monday, September 24, 2012, after a long battle with illness.

Bernice served his country by joining the United State Army from January 1943 to 1945 where he earned his stripes as Sergeant. Not only did he serve in the U.S., he toured China, India and Burma during which time was he recognized by receiving the Eamet Campaign Ribbon, the Asiatic-Pacific Theater Ribbon with two Bronze Service Stars, the Good Conduct Medal, and the Victory Medal. After serving his country, he was employed by the Northern and Southern Railroad Company until his retirement.

Bernice was predeceased by wives, Gladys and Josephine; son, William C. Thomas; three brothers, Howard, Robert and Sam; and sisters, Mammie and Ruth.

The loving memory of Bernice will be cherished by his daughter, Lynetta Walker; son, Marcus Williamson; a host of grandchildren, nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, cousins and friends; and special caring friends, Brinda Ross Lee and Cornelia (Tiny) Morris.

Bernice’s highest accomplishment was that he gave his life to Christ and recognized Him as his personal Savior. He loved God with all of his heart and might until the day of his sunset.

Funeral Services will be Saturday, September 29, 2012, at Shaffer Memorial Baptist Church, 580 High Street, Christiansburg, Va. The viewing will be begin at noon on Saturday and the Funeral Service will be held at 1 p.m. Interment will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, October 1, 2012, at The Southwest Virginia Veterans Cemetery, 5550 Bagging Plant Road, Dublin, Va.

Final rites entrusted to Penn’s Funeral Home, Pulaski, Va., 540- 230-0730. Please send online condolences to pennsfuneralhome@gmail.com