Clifford Raymond "“Ray”" Smith

1941 - 2025

Clifford Raymond "Ray" Smith, 84, of Geneva, Indiana, passed away peacefully on Saturday evening, September 20, 2025, at Adams Woodcrest in Decatur.

He was born on March 23, 1941, in Boone County, Kentucky, to the late Christeen Cook. On November 30, 1963, Ray married his beloved wife, Sandra L. Harrison, and together they shared more than 61 years of marriage filled with love and devotion to their family.

A proud U.S. Army veteran, Ray served honorably from January 1960 until January 1963 as a supply clerk and marksman. His time in the service instilled in him a strong sense of duty and discipline that he carried throughout his life.



Ray worked in the steel and glass industries, spending years with Sterling Casting, Workhorse, Corning Glass Construction, and A&B Construction in Van Wert, OH. He was a hardworking man who provided well for his family and enjoyed the simple pleasures of life. An outdoorsman at heart, he loved hunting and fishing, going for truck rides, and spending time with his faithful dog, Sprite. Ray also enjoyed his daily coffee at Jinny's Cafe in Bryant, the joy of Halloween, and especially the visits of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought him endless happiness.



He was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.



Survivors include his loving wife, Sandra Smith of Geneva, IN; children Sheila (Robert) Vanskyock of Lynn, IN; Sonja McPherson of Decatur, IN; Sheryl (Edward) Wheeler of Decatur, IN, Cliff Smith, Jr. of Geneva, IN and Jimmy Smith of Indianapolis, IN; as well as his brother Robert (Vivian) Pope of Florence, KY.



He was the proud grandfather of 14 grandchildren: Shane Vanskyock of Winchester, IN; Jason Vanskyock (deceased); Chad Vanskyock (deceased); Danielle (Brett) McPherson of Decatur, IN; Kristi McPherson of Decatur, IN; Ryan McPherson of Houghton Lake, MI; Siearra (David) Nutt of Bluffton, IN; Jerod Eckrote of Saginaw, MI; Tina (Robert) Murchland of Houghton Lake, MI; Linsey (Jacob) Hoy of Hartford City, IN; Robert D. Cooper (deceased); Alexis (Joe) Sedlmeyer of Monroeville, IN; Kelsey (Dustin) Feuston of Portland, IN; and Michaela Smith of Berne, IN. He is also survived by 19 great-grandchildren who will carry on his memory.



Ray was preceded in death by his mother, Christeen Cook; his daughter, Sharon Cooper.



A time of visitation will be held on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, from 4 PM to 6 PM at Downing & Glancy Funeral Home in Geneva with Funeral Services at 6 PM with Pastor Greg Steele officiating. Burial will take place at a later date.



The family wishes to thank everyone for their kindness, prayers, and support during this time.



Memorial donations may be made to Fort Wayne VA Medical Center, 2121 Lake Avenue, Fort Wayne, IN 46805 or you may do so online here https://www.cdceportal.va.gov/donate_at_facility/