real nice tribute and a little history here; http://www.rodauthority.com/news/joyce-smith-the-backbone-of-speedway-motors-passes-away/
Joyce was more special than most anyone knows, she keep that Empire the family built, Speedway Motors in tip top condition! and dealing with Speedy was no easy task he is as driven and determined as anyone I have ever known even in his mid 80's now, and for a woman to keep up with and keep Bill in line was a monumental task for 61 years! Joyce was the ROCK of the operation and she proved it every day! leadership with dignity and grace that was Joyce and always with a smile and kind words to anyone she met! Now for Speedy Bill himself well he's just as mean and tough as they come. But one day I was in his office to give him an invoice for the first project he had me doing for him and it was a few dollars more than anticipated, so I was nervous anyway, but to see him look it over and give me a look that made me unsure that I should even be there? Then Joyce came in grab the invoice from Bill and said Oh pay the man he work hard on that! That's when I realized even Speedy Bill has a higher authority to answer to! Joyce came back with a check and some Popsicle s for Bill and I then we talked and I listened to some stories of the tough old days! I always felt like family after that, and have done many other special projects since then, here are some pictures of my favorite the taxi! Bill had me recondition this Nash Metro into the Speedy Cab you see here for Joyce s Birthday present in 07 the restoration team at their Museum did the drive line, it was a great honor to deliver it that day. Joyce was a super business person and friend and she made us feel welcome every time we were in her presence, she will be forever in our hearts & minds. Thought some of you might enjoy these pictures, September 28th will be the celebration of Joyce s life at the Museum, a large gathering is expected! Doug Kielian Auto Kraft Body & paint Inc. Lincoln, Neb.
Behind every great man is a great woman, and she sounds like that was what she was to Bill. I can only imagine the loss Bill and his family must feel. Don
I worked for them at Speedway for about a year and a half, and Joyce was a very sweet lady. She always had time to say hi or talk for a little while. My sympathies go out to the entire Smith family
no doubt the hotrod community has lost a great pioneer and representive of our sport.may God supply the family with His grace in this time of need............
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