Charles Raymond Smith
Charles Raymond “Ray” Smith, 89, Springfield, passed away Tuesday, November 17, 2009. Ray was born February 14, 1920 in Merwin, Ohio (Clinton County) to Roy and Lulu Long Smith. Growing up on a farm near Blanchester, Ohio, Ray and older brother, Clarence went fishing every chance they got. When Ray was 7 years old, his family moved to Cleveland, Ohio, so that his father could work for the Postal Service. (Rita) Ruth Borngen lived next door. Ray and Ruth were married on November 14, 1942 in Augusta, Georgia. Ray served 4 years in the U.S. Army, including 2 years in the South Pacific during World War II. His awards included, Bronze Star and Good Conduct medals. After the war, Ray worked as a carpenter, Western Auto store owner, realtor, and director of rehabilitation for the Land Clearance Authority. After he retired, Ray and Ruth traveled throughout the United States and Canada. He built homes for his family while living in Ohio, Colorado and Missouri. In addition to taking pride in skilled carpentry work, Ray enjoyed fishing, raising a garden, playing pinochle, discussing history and watching birds. Ray valued his church families at Pathways (Dale St.) United Methodist Church where he was a long time member and served as head usher. Recently, he also attended Battlefield UMC. Ray was preceded in death by Ruth, his childhood friend and wife of 60 years; his parents; two sisters, one brother; and grandson, Robert Ernest Smith. He is survived by sister, Mary Louise Riggs and husband Anson; sister-in-law, Alberta Smith; son, Richard Smith and wife, Diane; daughter, Judy Smith; daughter, Laura Crawford and husband, Jim; six grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren. Visitation will be held in Greenlawn North from 6 to 8 p.m., Thursday, November 19, with services on Friday at 3 p.m. in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Salvation Army or the charity of the donors choice. Online condolences can be made at greenlawnfuneralhome.com.