Irby Ray Smithey, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on November 7, 2026 following a battle with dementia. He was 86 years old.
Friends and loved ones are invited to join the family for a memorial service celebrating Irby’s life on Saturday, November 21, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at First Baptist Church of New Albany, Mississippi.
Born on October 2, 1940, near Jackson, Mississippi, to Mary Ruth Wilhite Smithey & Irby Rois Smithey, Irby spent most of his life proudly calling New Albany home. He attended Mattie Thompson Elementary School, graduated from New Albany High School in 1959 and went on to build a career in the furniture industry, dedicating many years to Mohasco and Benchcraft, where he was known for his leadership, strong work ethic, and commitment to those around him. Following his career in furniture, Irby held various positions throughout New Albany, continuing to build friendships and find joy in the community he loved so dearly.
Faith was a cornerstone of Irby’s life from childhood through his final years. He was devoted to studying God’s Word, growing in his faith, and striving to become a better man each day. He was a longtime member of both Hillcrest Baptist Church and First Baptist Church of New Albany, faithfully serving as a deacon in both congregations. His relationship with the Lord was reflected not only in his words but in the way he lived, loved, and served others.
Irby and his wife, Sherian, first met while working together at Roger’s Drugstore in downtown New Albany, where their story began. On June 24, 1962, Irby and Sherian married at Ingomar Baptist Church, beginning a marriage that would span 64 years. Together, Irby and Sherian built a life rooted in faith, family, and love. They especially enjoyed traveling in their younger years, creating cherished memories and sharing adventures along the way.
An enthusiastic sports fan, Irby loved just about any game he could watch, attend, or listen to. He held a special place in his heart for Ole Miss football and the New Albany Bulldogs. Whether cheering from the stands, watching on television, or tuning in on the radio, he rarely missed an opportunity to follow his favorite teams. His remarkable memory for sports history and statistics meant he could recall a game or a player from decades earlier and talk about it as though it had happened yesterday. He was a gifted storyteller, an equally wonderful listener, and the kind of friend who could make an ordinary conversation feel memorable. His stories could fill a room with laughter, and he had a remarkable ability to leave people feeling a little more confident in themselves than they had before. Whether through a word of encouragement, a thoughtful conversation, or simply believing in someone when they needed it most, Irby had a way of reminding others of what they were capable of.
Above all, Irby treasured his family and the simple joy of being surrounded by the people he loved. As a father, he devoted himself to raising his only daughter, and as a grandfather, he played an equally meaningful role in raising his only granddaughter. His love was steady, intentional, and without condition. There was truly nothing he wouldn’t do for his family, and his deliberate selflessness created a safe haven for those closest to his heart. He gave generously of his time, his wisdom, and himself, ensuring that the people he loved always knew they had someone in their corner. He lived a life of service, generosity, and genuine care for others. A familiar and beloved presence in New Albany, he touched countless lives through his kindness, warmth, and ability to make others feel seen and valued. Perhaps without ever realizing it, he became a pillar of the community he called home, carrying a quiet but unmistakable joy that radiated through the way he treated those around him.
Irby is survived by his loving wife, Sherian Brown Smithey; daughter, Tammy Smithey Adams; granddaughter, Victoria Lindsey (Jonathan); two great-grandsons, Lincoln Lindsey; Ridge Irby Lindsey; and brothers, Dennis Smithey (Bobbi); Jimmie Smithey (Jo)
He was preceded in death by his parents, Mary Ruth Wilhite Smithey and Irby Rois Smithey.
Irby leaves behind a beautiful legacy of faith, joy, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to serving others through the teachings of God’s Word. While his family grieves the loss of his earthly presence, they find comfort and peace in knowing that his suffering has ended and that he now rests in the arms of his Savior.
The traditions he created, the stories he shared, and the values he instilled will continue to live on through the generations of his family. His life was a testament to the beauty of faith, the importance of family, and the lasting impact of a life lived with love and purpose.
Though his time on earth has come to an end, the love he gave and the lives he touched will ensure that his memory lives on in the hearts of all who knew him.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Brad Scott, the compassionate staff at Baptist Memorial Hospital of New Albany, and the dedicated team at New Albany Health & Rehab for the kindness, dignity, and attentive care they provided Irby during the final chapter of his life. Your compassion and support brought comfort not only to Irby, but also to those who loved him most, and will always be remembered with sincere appreciation.
