William Shelton Smith

September 19, 2016

William Shelton Smith, 74, of Wetumpka, Alabama, went to be with the Lord on Monday, September 19, 2016. “Shelton” or “Popsy”, as his grandchildren knew him, was a loving husband, father and grandfather. Shelton was born in Brewton, Alabama on October 19, 1941. He was an Auburn University graduate and loyal Auburn football fan. He served in the United States Air Force for six years, where he achieved the rank of Captain. During college, Shelton met his wife, Rachel, in her hometown of Castleberry, Alabama. Rachel and Shelton were married in Montgomery, Alabama on September 11, 1965, and celebrated their 51^st wedding anniversary this year. They have two sons, William and Michael.

After his service in the Air Force, Shelton spent years serving as a City Manager in various cities in the Southeast before retiring with his wife, Rachel to Wetumpka. Shelton was a member of Santuck Baptist Church and had served in various ministries over the years. Shelton will be remembered for his love of the Lord, Godly leadership, being a loyal and faithful son, husband, father, grandfather, friend, and for his contagious smile and bright blue eyes.

Shelton is preceded in death by his mother, Linnie McKinley Smith and father, Lonzo Smith. He is survived by his wife, Rachel; sons and daughters-in-law, William Shelton Smith Jr. and Kay, Michael Eric Smith and Dena; five grandchildren, Megan Joy DeBonis (husband, Domenic), Abbey Lane Smith, Bethanee Rae Smith, Annabelle Joy Smith and Jeb Michael Smith.

The family received friends on Thursday, September 22, 2016, from 9 a.m. to10 a.m. at Santuck Baptist Church, for one hour prior to the funeral services. Rev. D. R. Johnson and Rev. Larry Gore officiated. Interment with U.S. Air Force military honors followed on Thursday at 3 p.m. at New Hopewell Baptist Church Cemetery in Castleberry, Alabama of Conecuh County.

The family expresses heartfelt thanks to Lake Martin Hospice. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are requested to Santuck Baptist Church Missions, 7520 Central Plank Road, Wetumpka, AL 36092, Gideons International, P.O. Box 140800, Nashville, TN 37214, or to one’s favorite charity. Online guest book available at www.gassettfuneralhome.net.