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Berlin, Ocean Pines News Worcester County Bayside Gazette Logo Berlin, Ocean Pines News Worcester County Bayside Gazette

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Billy Greene Smith

BERLIN–Billy Greene (B.G.) Smith, 78, of Berlin went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, Jan. 19, 2014.
He was born Sep. 7, 1935 in Sylacauga, Ala. to the late John Reid and Lillian Greene Smith.
At a very early age, the family moved to Dorchester County where he grew up in the Hurlock area and was proud to claim Puckum as home.
He served in the United States Air Force and was a member of Berlin American Legion 123. B.G., his wife and children moved to Berlin in 1963 when he accepted a position with Taylor Bank where he worked for many years. Later he owned and operated Sea Isle motel until retirement.
He and his wife raised their sons on the family farm where they have lived for 45 years. For most of his life, B.G. was involved in ministry serving in various Christian leadership roles. He attended Buckingham Presbyterian Church in Berlin. He was a member of the Masonic Order for 53 years and a proud member of Berlin Evergreen Lodge 153. He presided as High Priest of Royal Arch Masons, and was a member of the Commandery and Boumi Temple.
He enjoyed fellowship with the community couples Bible study for over 35 years. B.G., or “Poppop” as his grandchildren called him, was fiercely loyal to his family and friends. He loved to laugh, and to make people laugh. He loved to fellowship over food, watch the news and spend his days with his beloved wife (who was also his high school sweetheart).
He was the kind of man that lit up a room when he walked in it, and to those he loved he was a strong encourager to work hard, stay true to character and to serve the Lord. In all that he did, he pointed to Jesus as the provider and protector of his life.
Surviving is his wife of 58 years, Mary Fisher Smith. Also left to cherish his memory is his younger son, Pastor Mark James Smith, and his wife, Denise; and grandchildren, Rachel and Andrew Smith of Hockessin, Del.
His older son, Grant Fisher Smith, of Berlin predeceased him in death 2005.
He is also survived by his daughter-in-law, Dawn Rogers (Brooke), and grandchildren Amy Smith and Emily Smith Martinez, and her husband, Alec, of San Diego, Ca.
He is survived by his sister, Lillian Carmean of Blades, Del. and his sister in-law, Midge Wright and her husband, Lester, of Berlin.
Four brothers, John Reid (Junior), Louie, Wallace and Eugene Smith, and three sisters, Josephine Justice, Lacelle Lauck, and Bobbie Eskridge preceded him in death. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.
A service was held Jan. 24 at Burbage Funeral Home in Berlin. Interment followed at Dale Cemetery in Whaleyville. A celebration of his life took place at Buckingham Presbyterian Church, with his son Mark James Smith officiating.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Buckingham Presbyterian Church Kitchen Renovation Fund, 20 South Main St. Berlin, Md. 21811. Expressions of condolence may be sent at www.burbagefuneralhome.com.