Obituary for Raymond Smith
Raymond H. Smith, 70, of Longwood, Florida, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 18, 2023. He is survived by his two sisters, Teresa Ogden and Sherri Leatherman, and by his wife, Dalila Smith.
Ray – as he was known by friends and family – was born on August 30, 1953, to Hayward and Eunice Smith while Hayward was stationed at Fort Benning in Georgia. Following in his father’s footsteps, Ray enlisted in the U.S. Army shortly after graduating from Lyman High School in 1972. He was sent to Germany, where he met the love of his life, Dalila. Ray and Dalila were married in Germany in 1976 and returned to the U.S. after Ray was honorably discharged from the military in 1977. The couple settled in Longwood, Florida, near Ray’s childhood home, and spent 47 happy years together there.
When he wasn’t working, Ray considered his time best spent with a fishing rod in hand. He loved being out in nature, exploring the backroads and photographing the array of animals he encountered. His favorite photography subjects were birds, which he had a knack for capturing midflight. His regular companions on these ramblings were his beloved dogs, whom he considered family.
With a warm smile and a generous spirit, Ray was well loved by all who knew him and will be missed by all. His family will be honoring him with a private memorial service.
To plant a tree in memory of Raymond Smith, visit the Tribute Store.
Loading...