William Thomas Smith, known by many as WT or Bill, was born on July 6, 1947 in Buckroe Beach, Virginia to James Hodges Smith Sr and Elizabeth Ruth Marie (Genteman) Smith.  Second born into this military family, his dad was stationed in Germany for a few years and then sent to Chandler, Arizona.  This is where Bill went to 1st and 2nd grade.  His dad being sent to Germany again, his mom brought the kids first to Argonia, Kansas for Bills 3rd grade year and then Pittsburg, Kansas for his 4th & 5th grade years.  The family then all moved and settled in Argonia where Bill attended from 6th grade on and graduated from Argonia High School with the class of 1966.

First working a few odd jobs, Bill then enlisted in the United States Navy on January 16, 1967.  Serving in the Vietnam War, Bill was awarded the Vietnam Service Medal with 1 Bronze Star, the National Defense Service Medal, and Vietnam Campaign Medal.  With the rank of Navy Seaman E3, Bill was released from active duty on October 15, 1970 due to demobilization-reduction in authorized strength.  He was honorably discharged on January 15, 1973.

Bill married Julia Ann Vavra on October 8, 1972 in Argonia and to this union two children were born, Brandy and James.  Bill worked in machine shops in Argonia and then Wellington before going to work for Boeing in Wichita.  The couple divorced and Bill later moved to Harper, Kansas.

Starting his career in law enforcement, Bill became a reserve for the Harper Police Department in 1977.  Becoming a full-time police officer in 1981, Bill also helped at times as a part-time deputy for Harper County Sheriff's Office.  He further served his community as a volunteer firefighter for a few years in the early 80s.  After several years as the Assistant Chief of Police, the city appointed Bill as Chief of Police in 1992, and he held this position with honor and integrity until his retirement in 2007.

On February 26, 1994, Bill was united in marriage to Sue (Wiseley) Jane't in Harper and he gained two sons, Heath and Justin.  After his retirement, Bill worked for a short time for the Harper County Jail and then at Cox Machine before he started getting ill.

Bill was active in the Kansas C-Post during his time as Chief of Police.  He was also active with the VFW Post #11449 and American Legion Jeff Long Post 104.  Bill seemed to know everyone.  He was good at staying in touch with his family and so many friends with frequent phone calls and many would often stop by, always noticing how perfect his lawn looked.

At the age of 75, Bill passed away at home on March 13, 2023 with his wife by his side.  His long battle with COPD was finally over.  Preceding him in death are his parents; his stepfather, Ervin C. "Dutch" Moore; sister-in-law, Ellen Smith; and stepson, Justin T. Jane't.  Bill is survived by his wife, Sue of the home; daughter, Brandy Rice and husband, Eric of Arkansas City, Kansas; son, James Williams of Anthony; stepson, Heath Jane't and wife, Kristeen of Arkansas City; brother, Jim Smith of Altoona, Kansas; sisters, Judy Stone and husband, Chuck of West Branson, Missouri and Sherry Owen and husband, Jack of Argonia; grandchildren; Stephany Carter (Chris), Wylie Williams, Keith Jane't, Jennifer Jane't (Justin Arnold), Dylan Davenport (Hunter Emond), Landon Davenport, Addie Darbe, and Kenzie Jane't; nine great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews; his law enforcement family; other relatives and many friends.

Friends may view and register from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Friday.

Funeral Service is 2:00 p.m. Saturday, March 18, 2023 at Prairie Rose Funeral Home, Harper with David Earls officiating.  Graveside Service follows at the Harper Cemetery with Military Honors provided by the United States Navy, VFW, and American Legion.

Memorials may be made to American Legion Post 104 or VFW Post #11449 and can be sent in care of Prairie Rose Funeral Homes, 613 W 14th St ~ Harper, Kansas 67058