Steven Ray Smith

Steven Ray Smith, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, entered into eternal rest on August 27, 2025, in Springtown, Texas, at the age of 71. He was born on August 7, 1954, in Azle, Texas, to his devoted parents, Wallace Milton Smith and Betty Laverne Murphree-Smith. From his very first days in Azle, Steven's life was rooted in faith, family, hard work, and an abiding love for the outdoors.
Raised as the middle son among five boys, Steven grew up surrounded by the protective strength of his father, the tender guidance of his mother, and the gentle but powerful influence of his two grandmothers, who shaped his character and faith. At a young age, he attended Vacation Bible School at La Junta Baptist Church with his beloved Memaw Murphree. It was there, during a summer of innocence and joy, that he accepted Christ as his Savior and was baptized in the creek behind the church-a spiritual milestone that anchored him throughout his life.
His childhood was a tapestry of treasured memories: road trips to Minnesota that filled the car with laughter and adventure, family reunions at Lake Whitney where bonds deepened with every splash of water and every shared meal, and countless afternoons helping his grandmother deliver Avon throughout the Northside community, learning the value of diligence, kindness, and connection.
Steven's education began at Azle ISD, where he proudly considered himself part of the Azle High School Class of 1972. Even, though the family moved to Boyd and Steven officially graduated at only 16 years old-a mark of his intelligence and determination, he considered himself an Azle High product . Yet, no matter where life carried him, his heart always remained tied to Azle, the town that had shaped his early years.
From a young age, Steven worked side by side with his father in construction, mastering the craft of cement work and quickly building a reputation for skill and integrity. He soon founded his own cement construction company, becoming a successful business owner and respected member of his community. After decades of hard work, he retired at the age of 56, choosing to spend his golden years in the places he loved most-on the water with a fishing pole in hand, or in the woods on a hunt, often accompanied by family and friends.
An avid outdoorsman, Steven thrived under open skies. Whether it was fishing for crappie, hunting with his bow or rifle, or setting up camp beneath the stars, he found peace and purpose in the natural world. He shared these passions freely, teaching younger generations the patience, skill, and reverence required to enjoy God's creation. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren will forever treasure the memories of their time spent alongside him, learning to bait hooks, build fires, and laugh at life's simple joys.
Above all, Steven's greatest pride was his family. Everywhere he went, he spoke with deep affection of his daughters and grandchildren, boasting of their accomplishments and cherishing their every milestone. He celebrated his daughters Kristi and Sherri as accomplished registered nurses, his daughter Sandra as a compassionate patient care technician, and his granddaughters Jacee and Michelle as a radiological technician and a hospital dietary aid-professions he admired as true callings of service and dedication.
Steven's life changed forever when he found the love of his life, Ella Mae Hewitt. After searching for 38 years, he discovered in her a perfect and unconditional love that completed him. Married for 32 beautiful years, Steven and Ella Mae built a marriage grounded in loyalty, laughter, and unwavering devotion. To him, she was not only his wife but his heart's true home.
Faith and fellowship also defined Steven's journey. A proud, lifetime endowed member of the Azle Masonic Lodge, he was raised to the distinguished rank of Master Mason on April 7, 1977. He wore that honor with humility, living a life that reflected the lodge's values of brotherhood, charity, and moral integrity.
Steven is survived by his cherished wife, Ella Mae Smith; his devoted daughters, Kristi Ramon and husband Michael, Sandra Smith, and Sherri Earp and husband Jason; his beloved grandchildren, Timothy Ramon, Michelle Ramon, Jacee Cox and husband Raleigh, Chance Earp and wife Leah, Nick Nicholson, Misti Nicholson, Sierra Rebollar and husband Raul, and Mercedez Rodriguez; eight treasured great-grandchildren; his brothers Ronnie Smith and Terry Smith; and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members whose lives he touched deeply.
He is reunited in eternal peace with his parents, Wallace and Betty Smith; his brothers Danny Smith and Toy Smith; his son Jeremy Smith; and his daughters Teresa Zaidle and Terry Zaidle.
The family takes comfort in knowing that Steven's journey was filled with faith, love, and joy, and that his legacy of devotion to God, family, and fellowship will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
A graveside funeral service to honor and celebrate Steven's life will be held on Friday, August 29, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Azleland Cemetery in Azle, Texas. Family and friends will gather not only to mourn his passing, but to rejoice in the extraordinary life he lived and the love he leaves behind.
Steven Ray Smith's life was a shining testimony of faith, family, and love of the outdoors. Though his earthly journey has ended, the echoes of his laughter, the warmth of his love, and the lessons he imparted will live on for generations. His was a life well lived, and he will be forever missed.