Lester Ray Smith

Lester Ray Smith November 21, 1924 – January 19, 2026

Lester Ray Smith was born on November 21, 1924, in Osage, Oklahoma, to Arthur and Vena Smith. He was the second oldest of seven siblings. During his early years, Ray moved frequently with his family as they followed farming work. They lived in Oklahoma along the Arkansas River, New Mexico, Arizona, and eventually Idaho, where the family settled in Wilder. Ray later shared that living conditions were often very difficult, as the family frequently lived in tents.

Ray moved to Portland, Oregon, where he learned to weld, and later worked at a shipping yard in Vancouver, Washington. He eventually returned to Idaho and worked on a farm in Greenleaf before joining the military with his brother at nearly nineteen years of age.

Ray's Christian faith played a significant role in his life, sustaining him during his time in service and remaining a source of comfort and joy throughout his life.

Ray proudly served his country as a Navy Seabee, working as a welder on ships. His service included time at Okinawa, Japan, and Oahu, Hawaii. These years provided him with valuable opportunities to travel and serve his nation.

After returning to Idaho, Ray attended barber school, where he met his wife, Bonnie. They were married in 1949 and made their home in Kuna, Idaho, where they raised their twin daughters. At the age of 28, Ray opened his own barber shop and faithfully served the Kuna community for 42 years. He knew generations of local farmers-their families, their children, and even their irrigation habits. His shop was the only one in town with a barber pole, an old-fashioned barber chair, hot towels, and razor strops. Ray was more than a barber; he was a friend to everyone who walked through his door. He retired at age 70 to enjoy traveling with his wife and spending time with family and friends.

Throughout his life, Ray also enjoyed farming, hunting, and camping. He especially loved spending time in the mountains at the family property in Cascade. Ray was a steady and reliable source of encouragement to many, always grateful for what he had and eager to help others whenever he could.

Ray passed away peacefully on Monday, January 19, 2026, at Swan Falls Assisted Living. "Well done, good and faithful servant."

He was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings; his beloved wife, Wanda "Bonnie" Smith, with whom he shared 59 years of marriage; and his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at Kuna Baptist Church on February 20, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to a favorite charity in Ray's honor.