William "Bill" Smothers of Benton

BENTON – William "Bill" Smothers, 59, passed away at 12:28 a.m. Wednesday, March 29, 2017, in SSM Good Samaritan Hospital in Mount Vernon, surrounded by his family and friends.

He was born Sept. 25, 1957, to Clarence "Doc" and Mildred (Scrutchfield) Smothers in Benton.

Bill lived in Benton for most of his life. He loved his family and friends to the fullest and always enjoyed spending his days with them, especially his grandson, Brendon.

His generosity, love for others and playful nature is what will always be remembered by his family and friends.

He was a loving father, grandfather and brother and will be dearly missed.

A mark of a truly great man is one who touches the lives of others and leaves them better for knowing him. Bill most definitely did that.

Bill was an avid hunter and fisherman and an exceptional pool player.

Survivors include his daughter, Lacey Smothers of Benton; grandson, Brendon Jones; two sisters, Sandi (Tom) Schmidt and Debra (Lenny) Holthaus; and brother, Randy (Linda) Smothers.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence "Doc" and Mildred Smothers; two brothers, Gary Smothers and Jim Smothers; and sister, Susan Wilson.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, April 1, in Pate Funeral Home, 301 S. Main St., in Benton with Pastor Roger Webb officiating. Burial will be in Jones Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, March 31, at the funeral home.

Memorials may be made to Pate Funeral Home to assist with funeral expenses.

Online condolences may be given at www.patefh.com.