James Ronnie Smith, age 71, of Decatur, passed away on Monday, June 19th, 2023. Visitation will be on Monday, June 26th, from 5 to 6 pm, followed by a Celebration of life service at 6 pm at Roselawn Funeral Home.
Ron is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Debby Smith; their children, Jeremy Smith (Crystal), Andrea Robertson (Tim), Nathan Smith (Nicole), Kristen Chandler (Alan) and Kyle Smith (Emily); fourteen grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He is also survived by a brother, Darrell Smith.
He was preceded in death by his daughter, Amy Hull (Rich); great-grandson, Oliver Hull; his parents, James and Delores Smith and a sister, Patricia Vincent.
Ron was born on March 17, 1952, in Decatur, Alabama. He grew up in Alabama, Louisiana, and Florida. He graduated from Titusville High School in Florida and later went on to earn a Bachelor's Degree in Alabama. He was an avid sports fan - playing, coaching, and being a diehard, lifelong Crimson Tide fan. He played softball, football, basketball, and volleyball for city and church leagues. He coached his childrens' soccer and baseball teams for many years. He enjoyed watching his grandchildren participate in sports as well.
He loved being around his family and staying in contact with his children as they married and started families of their own. For many years, he made nightly calls to each of them to see how their families were doing.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Tunnel to Towers (t2t.org).
Roselawn Funeral Home has the honor of serving the family.
