Ronald Douglas Smith passed away on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at North MS Medical Center after a brief illness due to a fall at home on August 25. Ron was born on April 16, 1944, in Des Moines, Iowa. He was the son of Douglas Theodore Smith and Vlasta Patricia Telecky Smith.
Ronald was man of great wisdom and talent. He was a graduate of Florida State University in Criminology. His professional career included corporate pilot, law enforcement officer and real estate agent. He served as Chief of Police in Perry, Florida; Franklin Tennessee; Centerville, Iowa; and Tupelo Mississippi. He retired from real estate with TM Realty. Ron was a member of The Orchard Church in Tupelo.
He married the love of his life, Suzanne, on November 30, 2002. They shared many years of happiness together.
Ron was an avid outdoorsman. He loved duck and deer hunting as well as fishing. Hunting and fishing with his sons and grandsons were some of his happiest memories. He also loved every type of auto racing.
Family was his greatest accomplishment. He is survived by his wife, Suzanne M Smith. His daughter Traci Smith Reed (David) of Bradenton, Florida. His sons Anthony Smith (Diane) of Bradenton, FL, stepsons Michael (Ashley) Boone and Matthew Boone of Tupelo, MS.
He was Grandpoppie to grandsons, Kobus Reed (Makena), Alex Martinez, Julian Smith, Becket Smith, Gavyn Boone (who he instilled the love of music), and Rhett Boone. Granddaughter, Ferris Reed Murphy (Keegan). Two beautiful, great granddaughters, Maeve Murphy and Emerson Reed. Ron was so proud of what his children and grandchildren have accomplished.
Ron was also blessed to have a special family, not by blood, but by heart, with Rusty and Rose Boone and Harley Boone Henderson(Joshua).
Ronald was preceded in death by his parents, Douglas and Vlasta Smith and mother-in-law, June H. McMurphy.
At Ron’s request, there will only be a private family time at a later date when his ashes will be scattered in the water along the beaches of Anna Marie Island where he will always be close to his family.
The family requests that memorials be made to The Hunger Coalition of Northeast Mississippi.
