James Ray Smith

April 24, 1937 February 17, 2024

James Ray Smith, 86, of Center, Texas, passed away on February 17, 2024, surrounded by loved ones in Center. He was born April 24, 1937, in Center to the late Perry Buren Smith and Grace Louise (Whitton) Smith.

Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, March 2, 2024, at Sardis Pentecostal Church, Center, with Bro. Todd Jenkins and Bro. Lamar Rash officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Park.

Ray was born in Shelby County. He attended Sardis and Center schools and was raised in the Sardis community. Ray loved the Lord and served him faithfully at Sardis Pentecostal Church.

Ray is survived by sons Jimmy Ray Smith and wife Jackie, and Van Buren Smith.

Daughters Shelia Smith Kennedy and husband John, and Patti Brown.

A sister Virginia Lemoine. Grandchildren Drew Kennedy and wife Chloe, Aaron Kennedy and wife Sara, Ali Kennedy, Sam Smith, and Nate Smith.

Great-grandchild Collins Kennedy. Numerous nieces, nephews, family and friends, all of which he loved deeply.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Ruby Warr Smith; daughter, Rena Smith; parents, Perry and Grace Smith; brothers, Wayne Smith, Jerry Smith; sisters, Edna Smith, Frances Snow, and Odessa Smith Weaver.

To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net. Mangum Funeral Home, Center, is in charge of arrangements.