Roy “Taylor” Smith, 87

January 12, 1938 – October 22, 2025

On Wednesday, October 22, 2025, Roy “Taylor” Smith, 87, resident of Ripley, departed this life peacefully at his home.  In accordance with Mr. Smith’s wishes, he will be cremated.  The Smith family deeply appreciates your love, prayers and support in the days ahead.

Born January 12, 1938, in Jumpertown, MS, to the late Arnold and Zelma Smith, Mr. Smith received his education in Chicago, Illinois, and later became a self-employed salesman. A Christian and a man known to all for his love of finding a bargain, he lived each day by his motto, “making a dollar out of a deal.”

Mr. Smith was a straight shooter who loved to hustle, always believing there was no bargain he couldn’t turn into an opportunity to provide for his family.  He taught his children and stepchildren the importance of honesty and fairness and carried those values into every deal he made.

He enjoyed the outdoors, lake life, and fishing, and was a proud member of the 5 A.M. McDonald’s coffee crew.  A wonderful husband, devoted father and stepfather, and faithful provider, he will be greatly missed by everyone who knew and loved him.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife of forty-one years, Betty Smith, two daughters, Tammy Jones (Randal) of Walnut, and Donna Berryman of Walnut, four sons, Jim Smith (Sandra) of Ecru, Ed Smith (Wanda) of Ripley, Tay Smith (Dena) of Ripley, and  Buddy Kilcrease of New Site, one sister, Sue Huddleston of Ripley, twelve grandchildren, and twenty-four great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by one grandson, Justin Smith, two stepsons, Dennis and Carl Kilcrease, and his two faithful canine companions, Missy and Prissy.

Ripley Funeral Home invites you to share memories and condolences with the Smith family.

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