William "Billy" Robert Smith

William “Billy” Robert Smith, age 40, of Eaton, passed away on Monday, June 24, 2024 in Dayton. He was born on October 26, 1983 in Oxford. Billy was the beloved son to Jennifer Ward and William (Tonya) Hickman. 

Billy is survived by his parents; sisters Erica (Joshua) Taylor of Camden and Mindy (Rance) Pegg of West Alexandria; brother Travis Hickman of Eaton; nieces and nephews: Ryder, Alexi, Aeden, Brayden, Teagen, and Slade; Uncles Duane Smith, Alan (Melissa) Smith, and Greg (Jodi) Smith all of Eaton; aunts Jill Hines of Camden, Tammy (Gary) Barnes of Eaton; and numerous cousins. He is preceded in death by his maternal grandparents Vern and Patricia Hickman, and paternal grandparents William and Clara Hickman, along with nephew Jordan.

Throughout his life Billy faced significant challenges, including a battle with drug addiction. Due to his addiction, the light of a funny, intelligent, history buff was taken too soon. We as a family, fought as hard as we could for years to help Billy and our constant hope of his recovery regrettably dwindled and tragically he lost his battle to his addiction. 

Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 27, 2024 from 4:00 pm until time of funeral service at 6:00 pm at the Gard Funeral Home, 226 W. Main Street, Eaton, OH. 

Online condolences and other remembrances may be sent by visiting www.gardfuneralhome.com.