R.D. was born on July 7, 1937 in Pierce County Georgia. He was predeceased by his parents Hoke and Retter Byrd Smith of Pierce County. Where he grew up and met the love of his life and married in 1959 Willene Smith. After getting married and having two lovely children they moved to Brunswick, GA and have made it their home since 1962 for them and their family. At the age of 18 he joined the United States Navy and served his country for four years leaving with honorable discharge. He then joined the Pierce County Police Service and served for several years when he and his family moved to Brunswick, GA in 1962 he started a new career with Babcock and Willcock Company. He was a loyal and dedicated employee for them and retired after 23 years of service. During this time he was also a part time licensed barber which he did to provide for his family. He then started his own business with his wife Brunswick Bedding and Upholstery. He made many friends during his 20 years of running the business, he was thought by many to be a very trustworthy and honorable business man by the community. R.D. and his wife Willene were dedicated members of United Pentecostal Church where R.D. served on the Board of Directors for over 40 years. He also served as the Head Usher for 20 years. R.D. and his wife lived a very full life serving God, it was his life passion to serve the church and to give his love and time to others. R.D. enjoyed fishing, restoring broken antiques and making things look new again. He was always a quite crafty man with tools and finding a way to make things work.
He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years Willene Smith; Daughter Susan Smith Jacobs and son Romey D Smith Jr.(Ronnie); grandchildren Lindsay Smith Gay, Erica Smith, Malorie Ruffner, Drew Ruffner and Romey Smith III(Trey); Great Grandchildren Joslyn Ruffner, Landon Gay, LilyAnn Smith and Lila Smith; Sisters Annette Smith Godwin(deceased) and Daisy Lynette Smith; and many special nieces and nephews.
Pallbearers are Drew Ruffner, Trey Smith, Patrick Duncan, Ernie Stegall, Don Phillips and Danny Hizer. Honorary Pallbearers will be the usher staff of United Pentecostal Church, special friends Bro. Leroy Pasco, Tomas Tomas and Bro Jimmy Branch; and Dr. Mitchell Jones whom we thank for the compassion and care R.D. received.
Funeral Services are 12:00pm Friday, June 22, 2018 at First United Pentecostal Church of Brunswick with Rev. Danny Webster and Bro. Lee Stern officiating. Interment with Military Honors will follow at 4:30pm in Wesley Chapel Church Cemetery, 121 Wesley Chapel Church Rd, Mershon, GA 31551.
Family to receive friends from 7-9pm Thursday at Edo Miller and Sons Funeral Home.
Arrangements are entrusted with Edo Miller and Sons Funeral Home.
