William A. ‘Bussie’ Smith, retired from state
William A. Smith, known as “Bussie,” departed this life Tuesday, Sept. 14, 2021, at Bayhealth Hospital in Milford due to a lengthy illness. He was preceded in death by his father, Asbury Smith, mother Blanche Smith, brother Ronald Smith and stepson Daniel Ward.
Bussie was born Aug. 2, 1942, in Milford, being the oldest of three sons. He proudly attended William Henry High School in Dover, where he played football before graduating in 1961. Bussie worked for the state of Delaware juvenile corrections where he retired after serving more than 25 years.
He leaves his memories to cherish to his wife of 24 years, Betty Smith; and three stepchildren, Arlene (Craig) Russell of West Virginia, Joyce Ward of Delaware and James (Michelle) Ward of Delaware; nine grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. He also leaves his youngest brother, Marvin Smith of Delaware, sisters-in-law: Pamela Smith of Maryland, Agnes Southerland of Delaware, Myrtle (Benny) Tolson of Delaware, Grace Ward of Delaware, Rosielee Ward of Delaware; brothers-in-law: James Ward of Delaware, Donald Ward of Delaware, Perry Ward of Delaware, and Woodey Ward of Delaware; one nephew Marcus Smith; four nieces: Andrea Griffin, Marla Christa Smith, Mirica Smith, and Jasmine Smith; two great-nephews and one great-niece; one surviving aunt, Alma Rita Howie of Brooklyn, N.Y.; an exceptional caregiver and friend, Michael Quailes (Brisco), best friend James Quailes, family companion Prosper, and a host of loving cousins and friends.
A viewing will be held Thursday, Sept. 23, from 4 to 6 p.m., at Bethel AME Church, 205 N.W. 4th St., Milford.
Professional services have been entrusted to the Watson-Yates Funeral Home, Seaford, a member of the Parsell Funeral Family.
Online condolences may be left by visiting www.watsonyatesfuneralhome.com.
