Willie Ray Smith, affectionately known as “Daddy” and “Pawpaw Willie” to his family, passed away on October 16, 2026, at the age of 97. Born November 17, 1928, in Jackson, Mississippi, he spent part of his early years in McComb, Mississippi. He was the son of Annie Bell Brown Smith and Stephen Dorous Smith Jr.
Willie Ray married the love of his life, Mary Catherine Langley Smith, on May 21, 1949. They shared 69 years of marriage before her passing in December 2018.
Willie Ray proudly served in the United States Army during his younger years and enjoyed a long career in the dental supply business, where he was affectionately known as “Smitty,” until his retirement.
A devoted Christian, Willie Ray was a longtime member of Alta Woods Presbyterian Church, where he served as an elder, Sunday school teacher, and choir member, and participated in Vacation Bible School and many other church activities. He later became a member of Pearl Presbyterian Church, where he continued teaching Sunday school, singing in the choir, and serving his church. Following his retirement from active service as an elder, he received the honorary title of Elder Emeritus.
Willie Ray cherished time with his family. He took great pride in maintaining his yard, keeping the swimming pool ready for his grandchildren, and manning the grill during family cookouts, something he loved doing even into his 90s. One of his family’s most treasured traditions was hearing him read Scripture during holiday gatherings, especially the story of Jesus’ birth each Christmas before the family enjoyed their meal and opened presents. His family also looked forward to the special Christmas poem he wrote and shared each year. Through these cherished traditions and his everyday interactions, Willie Ray shared his love for Jesus and his faith with everyone he met.
Willie Ray was preceded in death by the love of his life and wife of 69 years, Mary Catherine Langley Smith; his parents, Annie Bell Brown Smith and Stephen Dorous Smith Jr.; and his siblings, Elijah S. Smith, Dewey L. Smith, Elizabeth Bell Morris, and Leta Marie Rowley.
He is survived by his three children and their spouses: Debbie and Tim Wheeler, Ted and Tammy Smith, and Tracy and Chuck Reid; 20 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, and 8 great-great-grandchildren.
Above all, Willie Ray leaves a legacy of faith, love, devotion to family, and a life spent serving the Lord.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 20, 2026 from 5 pm to 7 pm and Wednesday, October 21, 2026 from 10 am to 11 am at Lakewood Funeral Home, 6011 Clinton Blvd, Jackson, MS. A celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, October 21, 2026 at 11 am at Lakewood Funeral Home. Interment at Lakewood Memorial Park.
