William Garland Smith Jr.

William Garland Smith Jr., 79, of Salter Path, North Carolina, passed away on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, at the Crystal Coast Hospice House.

A funeral service to honor William’s life will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, March 8th at Munden Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Gethsemane Memorial Park. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

William was born on September 16, 1945, the only child of the late Garland and Lizzie Smith. He was a lifelong resident of Salter Path and a member of Salter Path Methodist Church. Together with his family, he proudly owned and operated the historic beachside motel, The William & Garland Motel, which has been a cherished establishment since 1954.

An accomplished carpenter, William had a passion for building small boats and took on various projects throughout his life. He had a deep appreciation for classic cars and was quite happy with his notable collection over the years. William always had a fascination with Egypt and the grandeur of its pyramid. His interest inspired many hours of enjoyment as he watched documentaries on the History Channel, deepening his knowledge and appreciation for days gone by.

Those remaining to cherish his memory are his loving wife, Peggy O’Neal Smith; son, William G. Smith III (Amy McDaniel Smith) of Salter Path; granddaughter, Amanda Leigh Savas (Perry James Savas) of Salter Path; and great-granddaughter, Sylvia James Savas.

In honor of William’s love for animals, the family kindly requests that, in lieu of flowers, contributions be made to the Carteret County Humane Society, located at 853 Hibbs Rd., Newport, NC 28570.

Family and friends are welcome to submit online condolences at www.mundenfuneralhome.net.

Arrangements by Munden Funeral Home & Crematory in Morehead City, NC.