Ralph Lance Smith

Ralph "Lance" Smith (lovingly nicknamed Moddy by family), 81, passed away peacefully on December 1, 2025. Lance was proud to be a Southside Scrapper and graduated from Southside High School in 1963. He dedicated his life to service and community-retiring from the United States Army after 20 years of honorable service, from the Memphis Fire Department after 31 years of protecting and serving others, and later spending 17 years as a substitute teacher, where he inspired and connected with hundreds of students.

Lance was known for his sense of humor that could light up any room and his ability to make everyone laugh. He loved sharing stories, pulling a good-natured prank, and reminding those around him not to take life too seriously. Beneath the jokes was a man of deep compassion, loyalty, and strength-a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend who always put family first.

He will be remembered for his unwavering love of the Memphis Tigers, cheering them on with pride throughout every season. His service and devotion to the United States Army and the Memphis Fire Department reflected his deep sense of honor and commitment-values he carried throughout his life. He also had a passion for a good debate, always ready to share his thoughts with humor and conviction, making every conversation lively and memorable. These loves spoke to his loyalty, his strength, and his joy in connecting with others.

He is survived by his devoted and loving wife of fifty years, Rita Mae Redmond; his children, Amanda Rhea Thompson (Hoyt), Matthew Ray Smith (Ashley), and Mark Lance Smith; and his sweet dog, Elvis. He was the very proud grandfather of Trace Thompson and Bennett Lance Thompson. He was preceded in death by his parents, Raorval Smith and Maybell Sorrell Smith; his daughter-in-law, Jenifer Loftin Smith; and many other beloved family members.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, which honors and supports our nation's heroes, and/or to any local humane society, reflecting his love for service and compassion for animals. The family is planning a celebration of life service which will be held in the Spring of 2026.