William "Bill" Smith

William E. “Bill” Smith, 83, of Americus, Kansas, passed away June 29,
2026, surrounded by the love of his family. In his final weeks, he spent meaningful time with his daughters, Kim Glover (Ron) and Jenny Sheeley (Jason), and his cherished grandchildren, Haley and Juniper Glover, and Mikhayla and Liam Sheeley. 

Bill was preceded in death by his beloved wife of over 50 years, Linda Smith, and his sister, Patricia Cannon. He is survived by his sister, Carolyn Clark; his daughters and sons-in-law; his grandchildren; and a large circle of extended family and friends.

Above all, Bill was a farmer, a family man, and a good neighbor. The values he learned from the land—hard work, humility, and perseverance—guided his life and shaped his career as a skilled carpenter and construction superintendent with Markowitz Construction. He helped build many of Emporia’s most recognizable landmarks, including the Didde Catholic Campus Center, additions to Sacred Heart Catholic Church, the Emporia Public Library, and numerous others. 

Perhaps his greatest accomplishment was the home he built with his own hands—a ranch-style house where he and Linda raised their family and created a lifetime of memories. Whether working the land, shaping structures, or caring for those he loved, Bill approached everything with determination and integrity. In his later years, he found great joy in the simple pleasures of daily life, especially visiting with his girls every day, visiting with neighbors, and taking his beloved dog, Ginger, for rides to see her human friends at Casey's or enjoy ice cream at Braum's. 

Bill will be remembered for his craftsmanship, strength, humility, kindness, and steadfast devotion to family. His legacy lives on both in the community he helped build and in the hearts of the people who knew and loved him. 

Private graveside services will be held for the immediate family. Condolences may be shared at www.robertsblue.com