Willborn M. "Smitty" Smith

Willborn M. Smith, age 82, passed away at his home in Bellbrook on Friday,
March 5, 2021. He was born in Dayton on December 17, 1938 to the late Robert
and Mary Louise (Blaylock) Smith. He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years,
Janet, and their children, Jeffrey Robert (Andrea) of Mount Sterling, Kentucky
and Michael (Kristin) of Steinkier, Norway. He is also survived by three
grandchildren, whom he adored - Colin, Quinlan, and Kennedy Smith of
Bellbrook. His surviving siblings include Genevieve (Byron) Kizer, Geraldine
Harp, Roy (Pamela) Smith, Michael (Cheryl) Smith, Bernadette (Paul) Ashbrook,
Martha (William) Strickler, and James Smith, a brother-in-law Harry Sheldon, and
a sister-in-law, Sally Smith. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by
siblings Mildred (Warren) Burford, Betty (Carl) Breitenstein, Robert Smith, Anna
Sheldon, Virginia Smith, Bernard Smith, and a brother-in-law, Dennis Harp.
Willborn graduated in 1958 from Chaminade High School where he played
football as a running back. After graduation, he began his career as a plumber in
Local Union 162 before being drafted to the United States Army. He spent
1961-1963 proudly serving his country in France. When he returned home, his
dedication to the plumbing industry led him to form a consulting firm, which
eventually grew to include clientele spanning from across the midwest, all the
way to the Middle East.
His enthusiasm for sports continued throughout his life, as both a participant
and observer. However, Willborn’s favorite pastime was simply being with his
family. He was a dedicated family man and looked forward to playing the role of
Santa at his extended family’s annual Christmas party each year. His many
nieces, nephews, and cousins will remember him fondly.
You always knew where “Smitty” stood on topics, and you always knew that he
loved you. He had an enormous heart and was always happy to help anyone in
need. He was the greatest example of what a father and husband should be. He
will be missed beyond words.

A memorial mass will be held Saturday, March 13, 2021 at 10 AM at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Dayton, Ohio.

In lieu of flowers, the family wishes for memorial contributions to be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children Lexington, 110 Conn Terrace, Lexington, KY
40508.