Raymond Lewis Smith, beloved husband, father and brother, passed away on June 1, 2026, at 12:41 in the afternoon at his home, with his beloved wife at his side. Raymond was born in Savannah, GA to Williams L Smith and Jewel McNeil Smith on September 2, 1941. He was predeceased by his mother and father, sister Janelle Coward, and brother James E Smith.

He graduated from Groves High School, Savannah, GA, on June 2, 1959. He enlisted in the Georgia Air National Guard on June 1959. Raymond completed on the Job Training as an aircraft mechanic in September 1959. He worked at Union Camp as a machinist from 1959 - 1974, In 1963 he further expanded his education by attending Flight Engineer School at Knoxville, TN. He flew as an engineer on C97, C124, and C-130. He accumulated 12,500 flying hours. He earned his private pilot license in 1964. He served as a full-time technician from 1978-2000 at the 165th Air National Guard, Savannah, GA. On June 2, 1984, he wedded the love of his life, Marianela F Smith, at Howard AFB, Panama. In 1986, he was awarded his Scuba Diving License. He also earned his US Coast Guard Captain’s License in 1987. Raymond earned his Aircraft Mechanic License I, 1982. He became a Chief Flight Engineer Examiner of the 158th Airlift Squadron, Savannah, GA. He was also the Chief Flight Engineer of his section. Raymond achieved the highest Enlisted Rank, CMSgt. He is survived by his beloved wife of 42 years, Marianela F Smith, daughter Teresa L Purvis, son Duane L Smith, brother Charles W Smith, grandchildren, Amber and John Lee and nephews and niece.

The family will receive friends 10 o’clock until 11 o’clock Thursday, June 11, 2026 at Gamble Funeral Service, 410 Stephenson Ave., Savannah, where funeral services will follow at 11 o’clock in the morning with The Reverend Dr. Drew Corbett officiating.

Remembrance in Raymond’s memory to The Wounded Warriors Project (support.woundedwarriorsproject)