Wilber “Will” Lee Smith, of Newburg, Missouri, passed away Saturday, August 29, 2026, at the age of 63. Will was born to the late Harold and Virginia Smith in Newburg, Missouri, on February 9, 1963, where he spent the majority of his life.

Will was a man of strong principles and character. He was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting, fishing, the river, cattle, mules, and, for a brief and memorable stint – emus.

He loved his wife, Glenna, and the two of them were a team in every sense of the word. Glenna made the plans, and with a little convincing, sooner or later, Will would make them happen. Together, they built a life centered around family, hard work, and the things they loved.

He was truly a jack of all trades, but his greatest talent was being a grandfather and passing his knowledge and skills down to his children and grandchildren. He was a man who believed in doing things himself and was always willing to lend a hand. If you needed to know how to fix something, you asked Will how it was done.

Will enjoyed logging, sawmill work, carpentry, and mechanic work, and always seemed to have a project or something to work on. He was known as a doer—a man who could look at something that needed fixing and figure out how to make it work. His knowledge and willingness to teach left an impression on everyone around him, especially his children and grandchildren.

Will also had a soft spot for his dog, Jill, despite the fact that when she was first given to him, he wanted absolutely nothing to do with her. In time, however, Jill became a beloved companion and a familiar part of his life.

Will was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Virginia Smith; his son, Michael Jerden; his brothers, John Smith and Kenneth Smith; and his sister, Bonnie Sisson.

He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Glenna Smith; his five children, Joshua Stephens , Lacey Smith, Cord Smith and his wife, Meagan, Justin Smith, and Sammy McDaniel; eight grandchildren, K’mya, Devonte, Ellie, Luke, Alaina, Karson, Aubree, and Calum; and one great-grandson, Greyson.

He is also survived by five brothers, Dan, Carl, Joe, Dave and Jerry; three sisters, Laura Myers, Barbara Gable, and Brenda Leggett; six sisters-in-law; six brothers-in-law; and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Will also leaves behind many special friends, including Don Leggett; Bill Cox; Keith and Patricia Mathis; Dusty and Katie Mathis; Tyler Mathis; Wayne Smith; and many, many more whose friendship and memories meant so much to him.

He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him. His strong character, his willingness to help, his knowledge, and the countless skills and lessons he passed down to those around him will live on through his children, grandchildren, and generations to come.

Please join our family and friends as we celebrate his life on Saturday, October 24th, at 1:00 p.m. at The Moose Lodge 14595 Co Rd 7100, Rolla, MO 65401.

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