Obituary of William R. Smith

William R. "Smitty" Smith, Sr., 81, of New Britain, died Monday at his residence. He is the widower of Irene Smith. He was a lifelong resident of New Britain and was employed by AAA Glass as a truck driver and prior to that was employed by New Britain Ambulance for many years. A US army Veteran of WWII, having served in Italy and Africa. He fought a long courageous battle with his illness and will best be remembered as a very loving, humorous, strong man who was determined in his convictions. An avid dog lover, he will be greatly missed. William was predeceased by his parents, Vincent & Marguerite Renshaw Smith, his brother Jack R. Smith and his very special friends, Paulette Bannister and Lois. He is survived by his son, William, stepdaughters, Tracy Bannister of New Britain and Stacy Bannister of Collinsville, grandchildren, Ashley, Leigha, Patrick, Samantha and Jason Bannister, all of New Britain; a brother Richard H. and his wife Lucia (Catanzaro) Smith of New Britain and sister-in-law Mickey Smith of Southington; also survived by nieces Donna, Lori, Maryann and Diane and nephews Richard, John Jr. and Arthur and several great nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held on Thursday at 7:00 PM at the Farrell Funeral Home, 110 Franklin Sq., New Britain. Friends may call at the funeral home also on Thursday from 4-7 PM. Burial will be held privately at the convenience of the family.