Obituary of Ray E. Smith, Sr.
Ray E. Smith Sr., 80, of Tucson, AZ, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 18, 2019.
Born October 23, 1938, in Great Cacapon, WV, He was the son of Redford Smith and Helen Smith-Azbell.
Ray served proudly for 26 years in the US Air Force. Retiring in 1982 at Davis Monthan AFB. Having attained the rank of Master Sargent.
He married Verna Theresa Dubea at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Marksville, LA on Feb 6 1960.
Ray’s military career took the couple to many locations around the world, arriving in Tucson, AZ in 1967 with their three children. They decided Tucson was the place they wanted to make their permanent home. Ray’s career took him away many times but he always came back to his family home in Tucson.
Ray had a zeal for life and enjoyed many activities including, golfing, fishing and camping with his family.
Ray was always able to bring a smile to everyone with his wit, jokes and ability to tell a “Tall Tale” or two.
He is survived by his wife, Verna, son Ray Smith Jr., daughter Pamela Fields (Darin Fields), and, son, Gary Smith (Jan Smith).
In addition, three grandchildren, Elise Fields, Arielle Smith, and Nick Fields.
Visitation is scheduled for Tuesday January 22, 2019 from 4 pm to 7 pm, and funeral services will be held Wednesday January 23, 2019 at 10am at Bring Funeral Home, Broadway Chapel.
Donations can be made in Ray’s name to either Father Flanagan’s Boys’ Home A.K.A Boys Town or the ASPCA.
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