William Harrison Smith Jr., affectionately known as “Squanko,” was born on November 21, 1938 to the union of William Harrison Smith Sr. and Amanda Smith, both preceded him in death. Born and raised in Cleveland, William attended East Technical High School. After high school, he worked tirelessly for the city of Cleveland until retirement in 1994. He owned Yonnie’s Pool Room where people enjoyed leisure and relaxation for years. William loved to experience new places through traveling. He often shared his observances upon returning to Cleveland. He enjoyed playing billiards and card games.

More than playing games, William loved people!  It was not uncommon for him to be surrounded by family and friends any time of the day or night. He was known for his skill as a grill master during the summer months.  His generosity led him to feed all those who happened to stop by.  His legendary Father’s Day gatherings featured bands, dancing, buffet style dinner and libations for all. Only Squanko could shut down Central Avenue with cars for as far as the eye could see.  He knew how to bring out a crowd.  He was a lender, a listener, a giver, a protector, problem solver and the life of the party. He was the father-figure to those who would have otherwise been fatherless.  He was a friend to those who would have been friendless.  He was a man that didn’t meet any strangers.  Everyone knew Squanko. If you met him once, you felt like you had a friend for life. If you did him wrong, you would definitely receive a piece of his mind. Never fake! Always real! He worked hard, lived a full life, and embraced the chance to rest in peace when it came.  He departed this life peacefully on February 4, 2015. We will miss him sitting on the porch with his binoculars, waving as each car passed by greeting him with a honking horn.  We will miss his quick wit, his jokes, his smart remarks, his wisdom, his advice, and his compassion.

William leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife, Elizabeth; his children: Kevin Swanson (Sharon), Michael Fortson, William H. Smith III, Timothy Smith, Elizabeth Smith, Kimberly Smith, Candy Washington,  Candy Ford, Michael Bennefield, and Tiffani Jennings; his sister, Marcia Smith; 1 niece, Antoinette Smith; 23 grandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren; 2 great nieces, 1 great-great niece; 1 great-great nephew  and a host of relatives and friends. Squanko’s song may have ended but his melody lives on in our hearts forever; may he rest in eternal peace.

Funeral service Wednesday, February 11, 2015 11am at St. Agnes Our Lady of Fatima Church, 6800 Lexington Ave. Family will receive friends at 1030am. Public viewing Tuesday, February 10, 2015 10am-7pm at the funeral home.