Raymond Lee Smith, Jr., 84

January 19, 1942 – February 12, 2026

Raymond Lee Smith Jr., age 84, departed this earthly life and entered his heavenly home on Thursday evening, February 12, 2026, at his residence, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born on January 19, 1942, in Tippah County to Raymond Lee Sr. and Dorothy Bryant Smith.

He grew up and resided his entire life on the farm which he was born. He attended Centre School where he graduated in 1959. He was a third-generation carpenter who learned the trade from his father. He later established his own business, Raymond Smith Jr Contractor, Inc. He built homes, businesses, and churches throughout north Mississippi for more than 65 years.

He was a faithful member of Mt. Moriah Baptist Church where he served as deacon. He also served as the song director for around 30 years.  A true servant of Christ, his faith was evident in the way he raised his family, conducted his business, and lived his life each day.

More than anything, he loved his savior Jesus Christ. Fathers are called to guide their households in faith through prayer, teaching scripture, and providing a Christ-like example. Raymond was the epitome of the Biblical definition of a father.

He is survived by his beloved wife,“Kay” of 62 years, Sandra Kay Darling Smith. His five children: David Smith (Kathy), Mark Smith (Brenda), Ben Smith (Ginger), Leandra Hubbard (Jason), Erin Shoup (Jonathan) His 16 grandchildren: Michael (Mary Carol), Josh Smith, Collin Smith (Callie), Lindsey Smith, Shannon Smith, Moriah Berryhill (Jacob), Claira Smith, Kaylin Hubbard, Jackson Shoup, Ansley Hubbard, Eliza Shoup, Evan Smith, Samuel Shoup, Selah Hubbard, Andrew Shoup, Elsie Shoup. His two great-grandchildren: Mila-Kennedy Smith and expecting Isabella Kate Smith. His precious sisters: Janice Gaillard and Gail Clifton, one sister-in-law Barbara Darling and a host of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers-in-law: Charles Gaillard and Jerry Clifton, and one niece Rejeana Clifton Barkley.

A Funeral Service honoring his well-lived life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, February 16, 2026, in the Heritage Chapel of Ripley Funeral Home. Visitation will take place thirty minutes prior to the service, beginning at 1:30 p.m. Dr. Jack Bennett, whom Mr. Smith often referred to as “a friend like no other,” will officiate. Following the service, burial will be in the Mt. Moriah Baptist Church Cemetery. There will be no graveside service.

Ripley Funeral Home invites you to share memories with Mrs. Smith’s family.

Please follow the funeral home link above for further information, or to send online condolences or memorial gifts.

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