William B. Smith, one of the best known and most highly respected residents of South Annville township, passed away at the Good Samaritan hospital this morning, at (4 o'clock). He was in failing health for sometime, and recently underwent an operation in the hope that his health would be improved, but the effort proved unavailing. The deceased spent his early career at farming but more recently was engaged in the mercantile business at Fontana. He was aged 58 years, 7 months, and 5 days. He was a respected member of the Church of the Brethren at Annville, and was esteemed because of his splendid character and his integrity as a businessman.

He leaves the following children; Mrs. Melvin Hoffer, White Oak, Lancaster County; Benjamin W. Smith of Manheim; Mrs. Alvin Bollinger, Lititz R.F.D.; Anna, Wayne, Esther, and Fannie, at home. He also leaves his step-mother, Mrs. Catharine Smith of Penryn; a brother, Irwin Smith, of Elm, Lancaster County, and three sisters, Mrs. Christian Hoover, Manheim; Mrs. Cyrus Dohner, Penryn; Mrs. Simon Bachman, of Campbelltown. There are also nine grandchildren.

Lebanon Daily News - May 23, 1931

Smith, Bro. Wilhelm, died at the hospital May 23, 1931, of complications, aged 58 years. He became a member of the Church of the Brethren five years ago and was always a faithful attendant at all of the services. His wife preceded him fifteen months ago. He is survived by seven children, three of whom are married. Funeral services in the Cornwall church by Bro. W. W. Hartmand and S. G. Bucher. Interment in the adjoining cemetery. - Sarah Winters, Annville, Pa.

The Gospel Messenger - July 4, 1931