William F. Smith, age 73, of Acton, died peacefully in the comfort of his home and in the arms of his beloved and devoted significant other Jeanne Donovan, on February 11, 2021. Bill was born on October 7, 1947 in Boston, as the son of the late Charles and Dorothy (Earley) Smith. Bill was a 1965 graduate of Boston Technical High School, and went on to attend courses at Wentworth Institute of Technology in Boston. He worked in the field of manufacturing, holding positions in machining, computer and manual program design, and quality control inspection. He was most proud when his part development contributed to the manufacturing of valued and significant projects, in particular, those in medicine, defense and space exploration. Bill treasured his Boston upbringing, and never forgot his roots. He loved the beauty of nature. He enjoyed photography and developing his own black and white images. He had a keen interest in weather instruments and forecasting, the solar system and NASA space missions. Most of all, he loved spending time at the ocean. Some of his most enjoyable days were spent relaxing by the shore in Eastham, Cape Cod, taking boat rides, picnicking on the rocky coast in Acadia National Park, and taking lighthouse and nautical museum tours along the coast of New England. Of course, each trip to the ocean included fried seafood and lobster dinners. In addition to Jeanne, he leaves behind his sisters, Margie Meehan of West Yarmouth and Ginny Coderre of North Weymouth. He was also the brother of the late Charlie Smith. Bill will be laid to rest during a private graveside service at Woodbrook Cemetery in Woburn. Bill was gentle, kindhearted and selfless. In his honor, please perform a simple act of kindness or donate to a charity of your choice. Arrangements are under the care of Dee Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Concord.