Ray Daile Smith

Born on April 29, 1938, in Claremore, Oklahoma, Ray lived a life defined by unwavering faith, integrity, perseverance, and unconditional love. He proudly served two years in the United States Army before beginning the career that would become his life’s work.

Ray began his career as a machinist before becoming a highly respected industrial scheduler. Through years of dedication and excellence, he earned the admiration of coworkers throughout the industry. Even after retiring, his knowledge and experience remained so valued that companies repeatedly called him back. He was known not only for his expertise but for his willingness to mentor others, freely share his knowledge, offer encouragement, and lend a helping hand. His calm spirit, quick smile, and sense of humor made even the most challenging days brighter.

While Ray was deeply respected professionally, his greatest joy was loving God, loving his family, and investing in the lives of others.

Whether by birth or by blessing, Ray loved his family wholeheartedly. He invested in the lives of his children and grandchildren with patience, encouragement, and unconditional love, becoming the father and grandfather so many cherished.

In the later chapter of his life, Ray found lasting love with Paulette H. Smith. Together they built a life rooted in faith, friendship, laughter, and unwavering devotion.

Ray’s faith was the foundation of his life. Those who shared a meal with him will remember his heartfelt prayers, often spoken with emotion as he thanked God not only for the food before him but for His many blessings. His faith was genuine, humble, and evident in the way he lived each day.

Though his later years were marked by many health battles, Ray never let those challenges define him. He was a fighter whose determination, enduring faith, and trust in God carried him through one obstacle after another.

It seemed fitting that in his final moments, it was just Ray and Paulette together. With the woman he loved beside him, he peacefully went home to be with the Lord.

Ray’s greatest legacy was never measured by his career or accomplishments but by the people he loved, the lives he shaped, and the unwavering faith that guided him every step of the way. He will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, faithful friend, respected mentor, and a man whose kindness, humility, generosity, and steadfast faith left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Daile and Iva Smith.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Paulette H. Smith; his children, Wayne Ellis and wife, Kathy; Russell Ellis and wife, Susie; Jared Rutledge; Jennifer Rutledge; Billy Holmes and wife, Kim; and Crystal Mayo and husband, Doug; 10 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; and extended family and dear friends.

Memorial services will be held on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at First Baptist Church Westlake at 11:00 am, with Dr. Ronnie Burke and Bro. Monty Jones officiating. Visitation will be at the church prior to the service beginning at 10:00 am.

The church is located at: 2617 Westwood Road in Westlake, Louisiana.

Words of comfort may be shared with the family at www.hixsonsulphurmemorial.com.