Billlielani Smith

Billielani Apana Smith, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, returned home to her Heavenly Father on November 1, 2025, at the age of 77. She was born on September 5, 1948, to William Wai Lau Lum Apana and Lani Long Apana and was raised in Kaneohe, where she attended Benjamin Parker Elementary School and Castle High School.

Billielani lived a life filled with faith, service, and love. She served faithfully as a full-time missionary in the New York Rochester Mission, an experience that shaped her deep devotion to the gospel and her love for others. Throughout her life, she remained a dedicated member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, serving in many callings including Relief Society President of the Kapolei Ward and Activities Coordinator.

Professionally, Billielani worked as an administrative assistant and later as a cherished Kupuna in local elementary schools, where her patience, warmth, and gentle guidance touched the lives of many children.

She loved to dance hula and cook for those she loved. Her passion for hula began early, she worked at the Polynesian Cultural Center from the age of 13 to 21 as a hula dancer under the direction of her Kumu, Sally Wood. Those years helped shape not only her talent, but also her grace, confidence, and deep connection to her culture. Billielani also shared her love through cooking, later running a lunch wagon in the Campbell Industrial Park, where she became known for her warm spirit and the delicious food she created with care and love.

Her laughter filled rooms, her generosity lifted hearts, and her compassion made everyone around her feel seen and valued. She will be remembered for her unwavering love for her family, her joyful presence, and the strength of her testimony.

Billielani is survived by her son Nakeʻu Smith, his wife Ari, and her beloved grandchildren Lloyd, Alessandra, and Itasca, who were the joy of her life. She is also lovingly remembered by her husband, Rockwell Lloyd Smith, and her siblings Wilma Kahalaomapuana Lan Heong Apana, William Dwyer Kameahailani Apana, Kawehi Albernae Loebenstein Stewart, and Collins Castle Apana. Though she has now reunited with many cherished loved ones who preceded her in death, she leaves behind family and friends whose lives will forever be blessed by her love, faith, and example.

Funeral services will be held on December 18th at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints – Makakilo Stake Center (92-900 Makakilo Dr, Kapolei, HI 96707).
Viewing: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Service: 11:00 AM - 12 PM
Burial: 2:00 PM at Hawaii Memorial Cemetery.

Billielani’s family invites all who knew and loved her to join in honoring her beautiful life and sharing memories of the joy she brought into the world.