Raymond Charles Smith, known affectionately as Ray, passed away peacefully in his sleep on March 24, 2026, at Davis Hospice in Cheyenne, Wyoming, following a brief illness related to cancer. Born on October 1, 1940, in Thermopolis, Wyoming, Ray’s life was a testament to dedication, resilience, and a deep love of family and community.

A proud alumnus of Thermopolis High School, Class of 1958, Ray pursued higher education at George Washington University and Central Michigan University. Shortly after graduating high school, he enlisted in the United States Navy on August 14, 1958. His military career was marked by multiple tours in Vietnam, and he served with honor until his retirement on September 30, 1980. His commitment to service extended beyond his military years; following his retirement, Ray worked at FE Warren Air Force Base in the Accounting and Finance Department, the FE Warren base hospital, the Veterans Affairs hospital, and Sears, demonstrating a steadfast work ethic and devotion to his community.

Ray was a man of varied interests and passions. He found great joy in watching and listening to the University of Wyoming’s football and basketball teams, the St. Louis Cardinals baseball team, and especially his beloved Green Bay Packers football teams. An outdoorsman at heart, he loved camping and fishing, activities that brought him closer to nature and personal peace. Ray also enjoyed social and interactive hobbies, including league bowling, and was an enthusiastic participant in games of Dungeons and Dragons and World of Warcraft with friends. Among his fondest memories were the countless hours spent playing computer games with friends and engaging in spirited conversations about sports.

Ray took immense pride in his family, considering his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren his most significant accomplishments. He is survived by his children Kim (married to David) Vanderveen, Scott (married to Stella) Smith, and Lance (married to Sibel) Smith. His beloved grandchildren Michael, Nicholas (married to Maranda), Brandon, Christopher, and Ryan Smith, along with Cole Vanderveen and Seda Onek, carry forward his legacy. Ray also cherished his role as a great-grandfather to Thomas and Charlotte Smith. The family remembers him as a loving patriarch whose influence and support shaped the lives of all who knew him.

Preceding him in death were his beloved wife of 64 years, Pauline S. Y. Kim Smith; his mother, Ruth A. Edwards; his father, Charles L. Smith; and his grandmother, Minnie Frakes. Their memories live on in the hearts of those who loved him and through the stories they shared.

The family wishes to express their profound gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and volunteers at Cheyenne Regional Medical Center and Davis Hospice for their compassionate care and unwavering support. Special appreciation is extended to Dr. Workman and Dr. Bryant for their exceptional medical attention during Ray’s time of need.

Raymond Charles Smith’s life was marked by service, passion for life, and an enduring commitment to family and friends. He will be remembered with great respect and fondness by all who had the privilege of knowing him.