Billy Leon Smith, age 80, of Shell Knob, Missouri, passed away on Monday, January 31, 2022, at Cox Hospital in Branson, Missouri.  Bill, son of Coy and Norma (Clinkenbeard) Smith, was born on April 26, 1941, in Berryville, Arkansas.  On January 7, 2006, he was united in marriage to Kerry Nauman in Springfield.

Bill, as everyone knew him, was never one to sit still, always on the go, and his wheels were always turning with new ideas. Music was a large part of his life becoming a spectacular guitar player and developing The Cross Band which performed in southwest Missouri and northwest Arkansas playing Christian music. He developed lifetime friendships with several country western stars including Merle Haggard. In later life, he was instrumental in many housing projects including The Waterfront on Table Rock Lake and several other developments in Shell Knob.

Survivors include his loving wife, Kerry Smith, of Shell Knob; two sons, Shannon Smith, of Shell Knob, and Channce Smith, of Springfield; one sister, Judy Mitchell, of Grain Valley; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by one sister, Virginia June; and one brother, Archie Ray Smith.

Due to the current Covid situation, and their concern for the health of family and friends, the family has decided not to have services at this time.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Childrens Hospital in memory of Bill and entrusted to the White Funeral Home, P.O. Box 890, Cassville, MO 65625.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of the White Funeral Home and Crematory, Cassville, Missouri.