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Raymond Smith Obituary
Jan. 7, 1970 - Dec. 12, 2016
INDIANAPOLIS - Mr. Raymond E. Smith, Jr., 46, of Indianapolis, IN, formerly of South Bend, IN, passed away Monday, Dec. 12, 2016, in Indianapolis, IN.
Raymond was born January 7, 1970, in South Bend, IN., to Raymond E. Smith, Sr., and Angela Driver. He was a 1988 graduate of LaSalle High School. While living in South Bend he attended New Testament Baptist Church and he also established his own music company in 2014, entitled “Y'bal Productions.” He worked as a sales representative for the Indianapolis Star. His hobbies included music, rap and sports.
Raymond was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Lester and Amelia Smith, Sr., and two uncles, Charles Smith & Larry Smith.
Survivors include his parents, Raymond E. and Mae Smith, Sr., of South Bend, IN., and Angela Wilson of Indianapolis, IN., one daughter, Destiny Smith of Brooklyn Park, MN., two sons, Raymond E. Smith, III and Preston Smith, both of Indianapolis, IN., four sisters, Carmen Allen of High Point, NC., Errika (Johnny) Scales of Indianapolis, IN., Starlet Polk of Bloomington, MN., and Felicia Hairston of Miami, FL., along with a host of aunts, uncles other relatives and friends.
Services will be held at 1:00 p.m., on December 17, 2016, at Greater St. John Missionary Baptist Church with viewing from noon to 1:00 p.m. Burial will take place on Monday, December 19, 2016, at Highland Cemetery.
Arrangements entrusted to Alford's Mortuary.
Visit our website to sign family guestbook or to send a condolence to www.AlfordsMortuaryInc.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Raymond Smith
Timothy M. Hardy
December 10, 2024
Missing you Big Hat Ray Ray Smith. Hard-Times!
Timothy Hardy
December 13, 2023
RIH COUSIN..The Hardy´s will never forget you. Tim, L´Wanda, Dante, DaShaun.
Tim Hardy
December 10, 2022
Big Hat Ray Ray! Will never be forgotten. Hard-Times. 2022.
Joseph Garrett
December 9, 2022
My Condolences to the family. Just want to say sorry for the loss and tardiness. My name is Joe from California A.K.A Jay Stonie Ronie he used to call me. I've been searching for Ray for the last 3 yrs to unfortunately run across his obituary! I seen it for years on Google but passed it up until today, because I just knew it wasn't him because he was so full of life! I was wrong. His job was done here and God need him more. He was alot older than I was and my parents took to him like he was a son of theirs. He would pick me up in a green Cadillac and take me to the studio with him in chase of his dream. Shortly after meeting him, he landed the blockbuster Meteor Man soundtrack with a man by the name of Scott I believe. Im really taken back rightnow because I will be traveling to his home town next month for work and was trying to see him.. To his family and kids once again my Condolences to you all.. Im really blown back!
He would have been proud to know that my passion with music is because of him and I've help my little cousins D-Smoke, Sir, Tiffany Gouche and Davion Farris purse their music careers!
Yvonne Kerezmam
April 17, 2017
What happened to Ray? He was only 46 what took his life
Yvonne Kerexman
April 16, 2017
RIP Ray
MARTHA WILLIAMS & FAMILY
January 12, 2017
TO THE SMITH FAMILY, " PLEASE KNOW THAT YOU'RE IN MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS. MY SINCEREST CONDOLENCES FOR AN INCREDIBLY GREAT LOSS. I NEVER FOR GET THE SMITH FAMILY.
PAMELA PARKER
January 1, 2017
My condolences to the family. RIP Ray!!!
Kiisha Harris Donathen Blackman
December 20, 2016
Big Hat RayRay we will miss you so dearly .I can remember just like yesterday you walking down the street do your thang had the boom box listing to the tapes drop and planning your next rap song ..... family we are praying for you all
Earl Scott
December 19, 2016
My deepest condolences go out to the Smith's and all of the families affected by Ray Ray 's loss. I worked with Ray at the Indy star between 2004-06, we had a blast! Always making the place fill with laughter while we worked. I always wondered how he was doing over the years, then he came in for training again at the star this year. I was glad to see my friend again after so long. What hits me the most is we had conversations about how he was trying to take care of his kids and me being a single dad could relate, our children had a lot of similarities. My prayers go out to the family, especially the children and their mom's. I was also looking forward to working with Ray and my son on music. Big Hat Ray will be missed.
Robert Summers
December 19, 2016
Ray, was sure of himself, charismatic and full of energy. He loved his family and we talked daily about the raising of our kids. He will be missed but the comfort comes knowing we will see each other again! Blessings to the Family
Tori Phillips
December 18, 2016
Ray had a laugh and smile that lit up the room. We met in august and things will never be the same.Rest peacefully Poppa
Joyce Smith
December 18, 2016
Raymond and Mae, Wendi mentioned to me that she saw a post on Facebook about Ray Ray. I have such great memories of him when Chuckie, Christi and Wendi were younger. He was always so sweet, funny and full of life.
I hope that God will comfort you and help you through this difficult time.
I know he will be missed so much. Joyce Smith
Tonyia Hardin
December 18, 2016
My deepest sympathy to ALL the Smiths and Drivers! Ray Ray was like Family to My Brother and I. He will be sorely missed.
Pamela Valentine- Wilson
December 18, 2016
To the Smith, Driver, and Polk families,
I was deeply saddened to learn of Ray Ray's passing. I remember when he was born.
Back in the day I would have him and his Aunt Greta cracking up, because I could never remember his Nick name. He was always phat head Ray Ray to me. He'd say it's ok I know being old your memory is bad. We'd laugh like no tomorrow.
My condolences to the whole family and friends.
He will be missed.
May the Lord comfort the Family and Grant them peace of heart in the days to come.
Pam Valentine and family
Crysta Barnes (Byers)
December 18, 2016
With sorrow in my heart, my condolences to the Smith Family. Death is the hard part of life and one that no one ever looks forward to coming to past. However, God said he is with us in death as well as life. Ray Ray is with our Father now, continuing his work on a much bigger platform. With love for Ray and the entire Smith family, always remember "Joy comes in the morning"! RIH my friend.
Alesia Lowe
December 18, 2016
Condolences to the family. Sending up prayers for you all.
Andre Anderson
December 17, 2016
Ray Ray put the city on his back and all of us enjoyed the ride. Way before his recognition on the Meteor Man Soundtrack, there was a sold-out talent show at LaSalle where Ray Ray and Fred turned it straight out! He knew the whole community on a first name basis (and could include your name in a freestyle). God knows how to get our attention. The entire Smith family has blessed South Bend. Our prayers are with you and "thank you" for allowing God to shine his light through you.
Lanore Evins
December 17, 2016
So sorry to hear of this loss. I havent been in contact with Ray Ray in years and often wondered how he was. His parents used to call me the chicken lady. Very sorry and sending prayers to his family and friends.
Jenifer (Wigfall) Smith
December 17, 2016
My condolences to the Smith family. RayRay was definitely a ray of sunshine. Rest in Peace my little brother. Raymond, Mae and Angel and the rest of the family, may God provide you with the comfort you need to endure this incredible loss. Lean on God for understanding. Memories of RayRay will be cherished forever! Love Ya neighbor, family and friends.
Debra Marshall
December 17, 2016
Sending condolences and prayers to the family. So sorry for your loss.
Harvey L. Lottie
December 17, 2016
Chief, so very sorry for your loss. Gods continued blessings to you an your family.
Carlos Jackson
December 17, 2016
Ray Ray was a special type of dude. I use to cut his hair in high school and we would go hoop and thangs. I would hang with the older Big homies in school and Ray was one of them. He was not just my big homie but a family friend. When he walked in our home you could expect some laughs and good convo. Big Hat Ray Ray. My guy was Fly before it became popular. He will truely be missed. Prayers to you all.
Terrance & Tinia Scott & Family
December 17, 2016
To The Entire Smith Family: Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. On today, we are remembering and honoring Big Hat Ray and all his loved ones he leaves behind to cherish. May the stars carry your sadness away, May the flowers fill your heart with beauty, May hope forever wipe away your tears, and, above all, may silence make everyone strong. Praying for strength, comfort, and understanding for you all today and the road ahead.
Love you all!
Shawnese Harris
December 17, 2016
My condolences are with The Smith Family
May God give you strength to get through this difficult time. Stay Strong.
Big Hat Ray Ray you are truely Missed!
Robert Parker
December 16, 2016
Rest in heaven brother in law. From the Parker family we love you and will miss you. Praying for our family.
Phyllis Driver
Phyllis Phillips
December 16, 2016
I crying for our children; Ericka and Carmen try to be strong. Raymond and Angela I can't imagine your lose, please do your best in this endeavor. Mae I'm guessing you too have a heavy heart, in that you too have lost a son; just try to be strong. You three parents have lost a great love; I wish you God's strength in this dark time. Phyllis Phyllis (Raymond Jr's Aunt)
Rodney Howell
December 16, 2016
I went to school with Ray Ray and his sisters at Lasalle. Back then he went by the name L.A.Ray. I remember we use to have little rap battles at lunch time by the cafeteria with Dennis Patton officiating. Man memory lane is fun to visit. Ray Ray was always cool and moving forward in life. We all should remember the good times we had with Ray Ray to bring a smile two our face when we need too. Yes life is way too short sometimes therefore we need to love, appreciate, and cherish each other more each and every time were together. Carmen, Erica, Starlet and the rest of the Family may Jehovah Bless, Protect and Heal your families. Ray Ray you'll be missed.
Maurita Richmond (McCarter)
December 16, 2016
Gone but not forgotten!!! Our Condolences to the Family!
Maurita Richmond (McCarter)
December 16, 2016
My Condolences truly truly goes out to the Smith Family!!! I'm so Sorry for your Loss!!! Ray was my little brother who always kept in touch with my family and I....Whether it was in South Bend, Indianapolis or Atlanta!!! He always had a spot whether it was on my couch or at the Dinner table!! He always kept us laughing or in a deep conversation!!! He was definitely good people.... Its such a hard pill to swallow for he truly will be missed!!! Rest on Big Hat RAY RAY!!! LOVE YOU.... Classmate, good friend, little brother!!!! ❤❤❤
Shelaine Hodges
December 16, 2016
To the Smith Family. I am so sorry for your loss. I am praying that God will comfort you and the family.
Timothy Hardy
December 16, 2016
To the Smith family. Big Hat Ray Ray was a close presence in the Hardy household. I will miss my cousin more than I can express in words. May the Lord Bless his soul and comfort the entire family. Tim, L'Wanda, Dante, and DaShaun Hardy.
Karla Northern-Harris
December 16, 2016
Extremely Heavy Heart right now!! Brother, Cousin, Friend!! Whatever you call it, it was much love! RayRay will be truly missed. Glad to have so many memories of laughter and good times shared together. May you Rest In Peace Forever & Always!!
My deepest most sincere condolences are expressed to his parents, adorable children & sisters (especially Erica), whom he loved dearly and spoke of often!! God Bless You All!!
Karla
Jennifer R (Jan) McCoy
December 16, 2016
I'm sending my deepest condolences to the Smith family sending my prayers to you and your family . Ray Ray you will be truly missed. Gone but not forgotten. Rest in Peace Ray Ray.
Crystal Bickham
December 16, 2016
Rest In Peace Ray Ray, you will be forever missed we love you always and forever!
Love the Webb family
Vanessa Richardson
December 16, 2016
Rest In Peace Ray Ray!! The Newburns And Richardsons Send Our Condolences To Our Extended Family!!
Michelle McCarville
December 16, 2016
Star Star, my heart breaks for you and your family. Know that you are loved, we are thinking of you all and we are here for you when you make it home safe. Much love, Micha
willena polk
December 16, 2016
Uncle Raymond and Aunt Mae, I never met a guy who smiled as much and was so full of life as Ray Ray...what a blessing he was in this life.
Charrise Gray
December 16, 2016
Keeping you all lifted in prayer at this time & going forward. May God bring you all of the love & support you need to get though & to focus on those great memories of him. Rest well Ray Ray.
Charles Harrison Jr
December 16, 2016
To The Family i know he is going to be truly missed so my prayers go out to all of you.May he rest in peace
Kenny Lloyd
December 16, 2016
Throughout the years you hadn't changed from the the fun loving, bright an energetic person you were as a young man. Having just sat with you merely a week ago I understand that no man is capable of questioning GOD'S PLAN. I sincerely hope that your family will find relief in the fact that you are truly Resting at the foot of the Throne. Until later my friend.
SheShe
December 16, 2016
My condolences to all of you and Ray Ray..I will never forget you..loved like a brother..
Robin Harris
December 16, 2016
Rest in heaven Ray that smile could lite up a room always ready to look out for your sisters you will be missed prayers for the family...
December 16, 2016
Pastor Frederick &Laura L Brown.
Jeanie Miller-Woods
December 16, 2016
My condolences to this ENTIRE family. I literally grew up with Ray Ray and he will definitely be missed. Our families were so close I feel like I've loss my own cousin. Rest in Heaven in God's perfect peace.
Kathy Stewart
December 16, 2016
To the Smith family my deepest condolences to you. Ray Ray will truly be missed we all grew up together and attended the same church.RIH another angle has his wings.
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