William “Smitty” Smith was a Corporal in the US Army Air Forces, a Major in the US Air Force and a 20 year veteran. A decorated U. S. Air Force fighter pilot, flying P-47, T-33, F-86D, F-100 and B-57 aircraft, and a member of the Caterpillar Club.
William F. “Smitty” Smith, Maj USAF, Ret., “Headed West” on April 5, 2014.
Major William F. “Smitty” Smith, USAF (ret). A 1951 graduate of Loyola University of Los Angeles, “Smitty” was a 20 year veteran and decorated U. S. Air Force fighter pilot, flying P-47, T-33, F-86D, F-100 and B-57 aircraft. A member of the Caterpillar Club (ruby eyes), he flew his final mission on April 5, 2014.
Earning a Master of Library Science from the University of Arizona in 1975, he became a TUSD elementary school librarian, sharing his love of books, travel and history with his “kids.” He remained an active member of the Tucson community and longtime supporter of the Arts and of the U/A Medieval Studies Department.
He and Rosemary, his beloved wife of almost 65 years, shared their love of traveling, visiting five of seven continents, and all the while, telling stories and writing poetry.
Preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Olevia Smith and infant son, Michael; he is survived by the love of his life Rosemary; their three children, Deborah (Arne) Nelson, Jeff Smith and Lauren (Steve) Schreiber; four favored grandchildren and their spouses, and two cherished great-grandchildren.
All were his life’s treasures and source of his pride, joy and never-ending love.
He is interred in Arlington National Cemetery later this fall. In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation be made in memory to the TMC Hospice (Peppi’s House) Endowment. https://tmcfoundation46605.thankyou4caring.org
