Ron "Speedy Lavelle" Smith

Ronald Dean Smith, 77, of Gainesville, passed away September 18, 2021 in Gainesville.

Ronnie’s life is one to be celebrated.  He is remembered fondly for the passion he carried for his God, his family, his friends and humanity itself.

He loved having fun.  In the early years it was hotrods and everything lake related.  He continued these fun family traditions and added more when the grandkids arrived.  Whether it was board games, video games, boating, camping, fishing or hunting at his best friend Larry’s, Ronnie always taught his family the importance of having fun together.  He continued demonstrating this importance even in the empty nest years.  Ron and Lorraine found the new passion of fast draw competition shooting.  Gun slinging with his girl, brought joy to the whole family as they watched the smile on his face in his Facebook posts.

Ronald left more than a good time to his family and friends.  He was never shy regarding his relationship with God and his passion for bringing lost souls to Jesus.  His powerful gift of discernment even saved a few from certain death a time or two.  He was a giver and loved going above and beyond for people.

Ronnie was known for pushing limits and bravely achieving feats, no one believed he could.  He was self-taught on several topics and expected as much from his family.

Whether you call him Ronnie, Dad or Big Papa always remember to celebrate the good times and carry on his legacy of God, Family, Friends, Strength, Bravery, Business, Fun, Love and Passion.

Mr. Smith was preceded in death by: mother, Mildred (Reese) McGrew and husband, Daddy Mac; father, J.W. Smith and wife, Ollie; great-grandson, Sean Allen Wood; and sister-in-law, Linda Smith.

Survivors include: wife, Lorraine “Silver Belle” Smith of Gainesville; daughter, Rhonda Salazar of Gainesville; daughter, Jenny Andrews of Nixa, MO; grandchildren: Brandon, Kimberly, Krystle, Mark, Braden, Nathan, and Janel; ten great-grandchildren; brother, Robert Smith and wife, Tammy of St. Augustine, FL; sister, Jackie Chatterton and husband, Robert of St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada; sister, Ashley Culton and husband, Charles of Nashville, TN; sister, Pamela Chesterman of Cathedral City, CA; brother, Carl Smith and wife, Carolina of Rancho Mirage, CA; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

A memorial service is scheduled for 2:00 P.M. on Wednesday, September 29, 2021 at Geo. J. Carroll & Son Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.