William Smillie, age 92, passed away peacefully on September 5, 2023 at his home in Glen Ellyn.

William was born on April 7, 1931 in Annbank, Ayrshire Scotland to Mary and Allan Steele Smillie. He was raised in Scotland with his nine siblings. At the age of 18, he joined the Royal Scots Fusiliers as a soldier and piper. He was the very first lone piper to play for the Queen of England at the Edinburgh Tattoo in 1952. He was a Master Mason of St. James Kilwinning Grand Lodge of Scotland- the oldest lodge in Scotland and in the world - a coal miner, semi-professional football (soccer) goalkeeper, master whiskey distiller, bartender for the US Navy Base in Prestwick, Scotland, and a Deacon in his church before he immigrated to the U.S. with his wife, Isobel and daughter, Helen in 1967. He retired as an industrial machinist.

Known affectionately as Bill, Papa, Wullie. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, mentor to many and friend to all. His character was largely defined by a tapestry of humor, unwavering work ethic and generosity. His infectious zest for life inspired everyone fortunate enough to be in his presence, as he led by example, encouraging all to embrace life to its fullest. His mantra was simple, "stick bubbly". He was known to be "salty and cantankerous".

His life's journey took him from humble beginnings to remarkable achievements. William played bagpipes for 87 years. One of his biggest passions was teaching children to play bagpipes. He was a Pipe Major (Midlothian Jr. Pipe Band and Northwest Indiana Pipes and Drums), a Pipe Sergeant (Gary Kilty Pipe Band, Midlothian Scottish Pipe Band and Chicago Metropolitan Pipe Band), piping judge and attended 53 years of Alma Highland Festivals. He led 2 bands to the World Pipe Band Championships in Scotland. He played for highland dancers, weddings and funerals, concerts and anywhere he was asked to play, like his great-grandchildren's school and fundraisers. He was fortunate to have traveled all over the world with the Scottish Fusiliers and with competition bagpipe bands.

In his final moments, William shared that his greatest accomplishment was supporting and witnessing his family achieve their dreams and goals. He was incredibly proud of his family and enjoyed watching his great-grandchildren play sports and music.

Now, he is reunited with his beloved parents, Mary and Allan, wife, Isobel, 9 siblings, son-in-law, Ben and many family and friends dancing together in the heavens.

He is survived by his loving partner of 9 years Judy Weisenberger, daughter Helen Smith (Ben), granddaughter Gail Correa (Greg), grandson William Peterson, great-grandchildren William Evan, Kaylen Isabella, William Steele, Mario Alexander and Matthew Luis. Judy's family: daughters Jennifer Ginty (John), Allison Kelley (Scott) and grandchildren Meghan, Brenden, Hannah, and Jake.

Bill leaves behind a legacy cherished by many. Bill's light will continue to shine in the hearts of all those whose lives he touched. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

A celebration of life will be held on October 7th from 7:00 p.m- 11:00 p.m at the Irish American Heritage Center 4626 N Knox Ave, Chicago, IL 60630 . Interment private.

Memorial gifts may be directed to:

Scottish Home: Caledonia Senior Living and Memory Care

https://www.caledoniaseniorliving.org/fundraising/

Tuesday's Child: https://www.tuesdayschildchicago.org/donate-online/

Family and friends may sign a guest book and share pictures below.