Billy Ray Smith

“But there’s one thing for certain, when it comes my time, I’ll leave this old world with a satisfied mind.” Our heartbreaking loss is surely heaven’s gain. Billy Ray Smith passed away unexpectedly at his home on the morning of May 8. He was born in Arlington, VA, on June 24, 1947, to Marion and Betty (Presnell) Smith. He was the oldest of eight children, and the proud, proud father of a daughter and two sons. Bill was a truck driver for many years and traveled the country on many adventures.He loved camping, hunting, fishing, and playing golf with his regular group of buddies every week. Bill was passionate about music and loved singing and karaoke, especially Johnny Cash and Elvis songs. He entertained many crowds and was even known to do an Elvis impersonation or two. He laughed easily, loved deeply, and cared endlessly about his family. All three of his children served our country in three different branches of the military, and Bill’s heart was full knowing he raised such brave and selfless children. Bill is survived by his loving wife of almost 15 years Gloria, his mother, Betty, and his children Dawn (Carlos) Collao, Billy Ray Jr. (Norene), and Johnny P.G. (Debbie) and his bonus daughter Kim (John) DeMarco; grandchildren Kelli, Tristan, Chelsey (Jimmy), Spencer, Bryan, Alec, Zakk, Gavin, Adam, Brody, Mason, Gracie Sue, Ariel, and Kaylah; great-grandchildren Zoey and Thomas, with Brynn on the way. Also surviving are his siblings Jack (Debbie), Lou (Denise), Ron (Kathy), Karen (Kim) Grossheim, Evelyn, Don (Gina), and Linda (Juan) Espinoza. Bill was blessed with a large family of special aunts and cousins, nieces and nephews, as well as a strong group of golf buddies. Bill was preceded in death by his first wife and high school sweetheart Sandra Sue (Popovitch), father Marion, and first-born grandchild Tino Garcia. Visitation will be Friday, May 14, from 2 until 7 at Walker Funeral Home 5155 Sylvania Ave. Please join the family for a short service at 7:00. A private burial will follow at a later date after cremation.