Joseph William “Bill” Smart

Joseph William “Bill” Smart, 79, of Elizabeth Township, passed away peacefully on the morning of May 2, 2025, at his home in Naples, FL. Born on February 12, 1946, in Elizabeth to the late Charles Ritchie and Mildred (Gephart) Smart, Bill lived a life defined by devotion — to family, country, community, and faith. Bill dedicated much of his career to General Motors as a skilled Machine and Vibration Analyst, where his sharp mind and steady hands earned him the respect of colleagues and friends alike. A proud U.S. Navy Veteran, he carried his sense of duty and service into every chapter of his life. A man of deep faith and generosity, Bill was a devoted member of Mt. Vernon Presbyterian Church, where he served not only as a elder but also as a joyful presence in the choir, a tireless volunteer, and a beloved cook at countless church gatherings. His love for music was a lifelong passion, bringing him great joy as he sang with the Mt. Vernon Presbyterian Church Choir, the Vanderbilt Presbyterian Church Choir in Naples, FL, and the Everglades Barbershop Quartet. His rich tenor voice lifted spirits and built community wherever he went. A lifelong learner and nature enthusiast, Bill was an avid reader and an expert on birds, able to identify their calls with ease. On the golf course, his competitive spirit was matched only by his love for the camaraderie of the game.