Ross McClenney Smith

Ross McClenney Smith, 78, died peacefully on Friday morning, June 15, 2018 at Southeast Georgia Health Center in Brunswick, GA. Ross was born on July 6, 1939 in Jacksonville, FL. to David and Grace Smith and was a 1957 graduate of Robert E Lee High School in Jacksonville. He enlisted in the US Army in 1958 and served a year in South Korea at the DMZ as an artilleryman.

Ross enjoyed a successful career with CSX railroad remaining active in the retiree alumni events over the years. He had previously been with the Southern Weighing and Inspection Bureau, working with Atlantic Coastline RR and Norfolk Southern RR for the Bureau.

He and his wife of 57 years, Penny, were married on September 15, 1960. They were actively involved in various civic, charitable and religious organizations in Brunswick and in their previous cities of residence, Florence, SC, Marietta, GA, Roanoke, VA, and Martinsville, VA.

Ross was recognized by The Brunswick News for his selfless commitment to those in need. Ross never met a stranger. He began a bread delivery ministry in Brunswick, serving those in need including the Manna House, Amity House, Safe Harbor Children's Shelter and Sparrow's Nest. Ross also volunteered with the International Seafarers Center, visiting incoming ships on Mondays & Thursdays; assisting visiting merchant seaman with information, shopping and medical assistance while in port.

Ross, along with his wife Penny was a regular presence at the Medical Assistance Program (MAP), helping package medical and other emergency supplies for charitable organizations around the world., They were often seen working together at MAP as well as the Manna House with grandchildren in tow.

Ross enjoyed his work with the First United Methodist Church in Brunswick making a lasting impression on all he came across in his faith community.

Ross was preceded in death by his beloved parents David Anderson & Grace Ziglar Smith. He is survived by his brother, David A. Smith (Barbara) of Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, wife of 57 years Penny Smith, children, Laurie Smith Kenski (Ken), Cindy Smith Beasley Cannon (Chris), both of Jacksonville, Fl, Rodney McClenney Smith,of Seattle, WA along with 7 grandchildren, Ricky Beasley, Ryan Beasley, Ross Beasley, Allie Kenski Jackson, Charlotte Kenski, Charles Kenski, all of Jacksonville, FL and Aiden Patterson of Seattle, WA. He was also a proud great-grandfather of 5.

He had been a member of Benevolent & Protective Order of Elks for 48 years, serving as Exalted Ruler in three different lodges and active on the State level in Virginia. He was also a long time member of the Masonic Order.

A memorial service will be held at the First United Methodist Church of Brunswick on Wednesday, June 20 at 10:00AM. Serving as honorary pall bearers will be members of the Duncan Sunday School Class of FUMC. Inurnment will take place in Jacksonville National Cemetery at a later date.

Contributions to Ross' memory may be made to Memory Matters of Glynn County, which provided Ross and Penny with exceptional support for his memory impairment over the past year or to the First United Methodist Church of Brunswick.

Edo Miller and Sons Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. www.edomillerandsons.com