Ronald Shelby Smith was born on March 23, 1949, in Durant, Okla., to Millard and Wanda (Beshirs) Smith. Ronald passed away December 14, 2022, at his home at the age of 73.
Ronnie graduated from Durant High School and proudly served his country in the United States Navy. He served in the Vietnam Conflict and received the Vietnam Service Medal with two bronze stars. After his Honorable Discharge, began his career as a machinist for Fisher Controls until his retirement. He was a passionate member of the Patriot Guard, and he enjoyed watching the Dallas Cowboys, picking stickers out of his yard, and watching Gunsmoke.
Ronnie is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Dan Smith and sister, Tiquillia Smith.
Ronnie is survived by his children: Jeff Smith of Durant, Okla., Shawn Smith and wife Melanie and Jennifer White and husband Steve; sisters, Sheryl Smith and Wanda Smith and wife Janet; grandchildren: Brittnee, Destinee, Jordan, Chelsea, Jerran, and Chance; great-grandchildren: Zia, Averee, Brooklyn, and Silas; special niece, Crystal Nix and numerous extended family and friends.
Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Monday December 19, 2022, at Brown’s Funeral Service Chapel. Pastor Joe Beshirs will officiate. Interment with Military Honors will be in Mead Cemetery with Brian Watson, Storm Edelen, Robert Shields, Jerran Belvin, Chance Belvin, and Goose Lathum serving as pallbearers.
The family will receive friends at the Funeral Home on Sunday evening from 6-8 p.m.
Arrangements are under the direction of Brown’s Durant Funeral and Cremation Service.
