Raymond "Ray" Smith

Raymond "Ray" A. Smith was born on March 15, 1939, in Kirby, Wyo., to Gordon and Ellen (Cusack) Smith and was called Home on October 13, 2024, after a short stay at Hot Springs Health in Thermopolis, Wyo.

Ray dedicated a majority of his life to the JC Penney Corporation, which included managing the "Mother Store" in Kemmerer, Wyo., as well as transferring to many different stores across the country, including Fairbanks, Alaska, and Honolulu, Hawaii. During his time with JC Penney, he had the distinction of being an honorary pallbearer for James Cash Penny himself. After retirement, he continued to work several jobs in Spokane, Wash., before moving back to Thermopolis and enjoying a summer retirement job with Hot Springs County Road and Bridge.

On October 7, 2006, Ray married the love of his life, Bonnie Rankin, in Thermopolis, Wyo. Ray and Bonnie shared 18 beautiful years together but it seemed like a lifetime. The two enjoyed gardening, taking drives through the State Park, and spending time with their kids and grandkids.

Ray was an avid crossword puzzle enthusiast and a member of the Elks. Along with hunting and fishing, he enjoyed bowling and competed at national tournaments multiple times. Ray also enjoyed photography and had an eye for the most beautiful scenery.

Ray is survived by wife, Bonnie Smith; brother-in-law, Richard Schneider of Titusville, Pa.; daughters, Martie (Kay) Dickey of Salt Lake City, Utah, Debbie (John) Finch of Spruce Pines, N.C., Brenda (Chuck) Bloom of Thermopolis, and Michelle (Russ) Ferree of Thermopolis, sons, Shane (Sara) Rankin of Thermopolis and Greg (Nina) Smith of West Jordan, Utah; granddaughters, Serena Slinger, Danielle (Nick) Hernandez, Charly (Rob) Johnke, Kaylee Bloom, Mandy Cha, Samantha Cha, Brittnee Smith, Kristen Smith, and Taylor Smith; grandsons, Raylan Rankin, Ashton Smith, and Garhett Smith; and 15 great-grandchildren with one more on the way.

Ray is proceeded in death by brothers, Larry Smith and Dee Smith; granddaughter, Brenna Rankin; great-grandson, Axle Hawks; and great-granddaughter, Embree Johnke.

Services will be held on Saturday, Oct. 19 at 1 p.m. at Risen Son Southern Baptist Church with Pastor Brian Johnson officiating.

Mortimore Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.