Vernon Ray Smith, 89, of Quitman, passed away on February 25th, 2024, at his home surrounded by family. He was born July 21, 1934, to Tillman and Mildred (Williams) Smith in Clarke County, MS.
Ray began his career in the telephone and communication industry with Deviney Construction Company in the early 60s. Many milestones were accomplished while under his direction, and after 35 plus years of service he retired from Deviney as area supervisor. After a short time home, he decided he wasn't quite done yet. He jumped back into the workforce serving as custodian for Clarkdale School, delivery driver for STAT Medical, and his final occupation was patient transportation for Senior Care at Rush Health Systems.
The VR, as his children often referred to him, leaves behind a family who loved him dearly, many memories and tons of laughter. If you knew him well, then you probably have a VR story of your own. The VR wasn't quite himself unless he had on "the smell good," as he called cologne, heavily starched jeans, a good pair of boots and piece of gum in his pocket. He made the best dressing and loved a good Smith reunion and telling tall tales.
He is survived by his children, Patsy (Randal) Mathis, Sissy (Jerry) Greene, Joey Smith, Renae (Wilson) Walley, Chris (Brandy) Smith; brothers, Jimmy (Lois) Smith and Lynn (Caroline) Smith; sisters, Nancy (Dewey) Mayo and Audrey Jones; eight grandchildren; 10 great grandchildren; two great-great grandchildren; and special son, David Traywick.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Tillman and Mildred Smith; brothers, Bobby Joe Smith, Little Bud Smith and R. L. Smith; grandson, Colby Pritchett; and great-granddaughter, Vera June Pritchett.
Visitation will be held Tuesday, February 27, 2024, 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. at Rolling Creek Baptist Church, Quitman, Mississippi.
Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, February 27, 2024, 2:00 p.m. at the Rolling Creek Baptist Church with Rev. Dewayne Robinson and Rev. Richard Coats officiating.
Burial will take place in the Rolling Creek Baptist Church Cemetery.
Pallbearers will be Glenwood Cotton, Brad Mathis, Bobby Joe Greene, Dusty Pritchett, Trint Barfoot, Jagger Smith, and Gunner Smith. Honorary Pallbearers will be Tanner Cotton, Landon Mathis, Hudson Greene, and Preston Greene.
Online condolences can be given at www.wrightsfuneral.com.
Submitted by Wright’s Funeral Home
