When you hear the name “Bill Smith,” you might think it’s a common one. But anyone who knows our ‘Bill Smith’ knows there’s nothing ordinary about him.
Our William “Bill” Smith III is the friendly face, the warm smile, and the welcoming presence that lights up every room. Whether you met him once or worked beside him for years, you probably remember how he greeted you: by name.
That’s just one of Bill’s rare talents -- making everyone feel seen, remembered, and appreciated. His 6’3" presence brings an unending smile; he is happy and makes you feel happy, too.
Smith was born on March 13, 1954, in Statesboro, Georgia, to Edith Gates and William Sidney Smith II. He grew up alongside his older sister, Frances Deal, and graduated from Statesboro High School in 1972. He tried college and later attended Ogeechee Technical College in 2001, where he earned his degree in Business Office Technology, with honors.
Early in his career, around the 1970s, he worked at the movie theater, as well as at his dad's shoe store in the 80s.
“As a young man, Bill worked at his parents' shoe store, delivered for sandwich shops, and later spent 10 years at the Georgia Southern Post Office," Ronnie Mae Hill Reeves shared. "I fondly remember him bringing his mother by my house after work to see my flowers. There’s truly only ONE Bill Smith!”
On January 7, 1997, Bill joined Georgia Southern College. He loved Georgia Southern and became more than just a employee, he became a campus legend.
Ron Lee, a former Georgia Southern University colleague, shared, “I first met Bill back in 1972 while working part-time at Piggly Wiggly. He was already a familiar face around downtown Statesboro. When he joined GSU’s Postal Services, his outgoing personality and encyclopedic knowledge of everyone and everything in Bulloch County made him truly unforgettable.”
Smith shared, “I’m grateful for the people and for being part of the university. I enjoy helping students: whether they have issues with mailboxes, deliveries, general questions, or even just need help learning how to open their boxes.”
Over his 28 years of service to the university, he witnessed incredible changes. Packages that once held textbooks or essentials now include Valentine’s treats, mini-fridges, even bicycles, and sometimes deliveries by appointment. Through it all, Bill adapted, smiled, and remembered every face and name along the way.
He reflected on the many changes over the years, from GS letters in mailboxes and mail trucks on campus to the introduction of golf carts, postal clerks, and computers. His advice to future employees: “Be present, be helpful, and stay current with modern technology. There have been a lot of upgrades since I started.”
On March 1, 2025, William “Bill” Smith III officially retired. He left behind not just a job but a legacy. He is a man whose small acts of friendliness created lasting impressions and set a precedent for what excellent customer service looks like.
In June, a beautiful reception was held in Smith’s honor, for his 28 years of dedicated service. A plaque was presented and a delicious buffet was catered by Georgia Southern Food Services. Many attended to celebrate him and his talents.
Tommy Thurson, Senior Operations Manager stated, “Bill always had the same positive attitude the whole 15 years I've known him. He never missed work, never late, and always excited to go on route. He talked to everyone, new or familiar, and always had a smile on his face. That's why he will be extremely missed by everyone."
Four of Smith's co-workers Rachel, Claudia, Madison, and Erin, added cheerfully, "Mr. Bill was very passionate about working at Georgia Southern Printing and Postal Services. Truly a light in our office. If someone needed help, he was always the first one to volunteer. He knew the ins and outs of the postal world, and none of us would be where we are without him. Our most memorable moments with Mr. Bill were when we watched Reba, his favorite show, at the end of our shifts. ”
”I knew Bill from two departments that I worked in," Jordan Wilburn, a former Georgia Southern employee affirmed. "Bill brought more than the mail; he was always ready with a friendly smile, encouraging words, and impressive updates on his step count. He was the kind of strength that motivated me to give my all everyday just like him!”
Michael Holsonback recalled meeting Bill during his college years at Georgia Southern, where Bill worked at the old Georgia Cinema. What impressed him most was Bill’s “friendliness and never forgetting a name.” Years later, as co-workers at GSU Postal Services, Holsonback said Bill consistently went the extra mile, greeting everyone with kindness and genuine interest.
When asked what comes next, Smith said, “I’m going to enjoy life! Go to the gym, do what I want to do! Enjoy chocolate cake, vanilla ice cream, re-runs of my favorite gothic soap opera, Dark Shadows, and embrace my True Blue Georgia Southern spirit every step of the way."
An active member at Statesboro First United Methodist Church for almost 40 years, Smith still sings in the choir as a tenor/soprano, too.
Smith is especially excited about the upcoming football season, sharing, “It’s going to be a fun season. Coach Helton’s going to work those boys hard! I’ll be at the games. Just wave and say, 'Hey!'”
Happy Retirement, Bill Smith. You and your smile will always be remembered on the campus of Georgia Southern!
