Ronald Dean "Ron" Smith

1940 - 2025

Magnolia - January 11, 1940 - April 8, 2025 Ronald Dean Smith was born in Flint, Michigan to Hubert and Clarice Smith. He graduated from Bendle High School in Burton, Michigan and attended Moody Bible Institute in Chicago, Illinois where he met his wife, Linda Holliday. Together, they were blessed with four daughters. After graduation, he held multiple jobs and attended language school to prepare for missionary work. McAllen, Texas was home base as he traveled into Mexico and was instrumental in building churches in "pueblos". He cultivated many relationships with local pastors and remained in contact until his passing. While back in Flint, he owned and managed several rental units and worked for Proctor & Gamble. Several years later, he moved his family back to McAllen and became store manager of The Boot Jack and returned to work for Proctor & Gamble. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to start a successful window washing business that serviced the Rio Grande Valley, which is along the Texas-Mexico border, allowing him the ability to minister on both sides. Throughout his life the call of God was strong, and he served in various capacities in ministry. He attended Edinburg Theological Seminary and obtained a PhD in Theological Studies. In 2003, Dr. Ron D. Smith co-founded Church of the King and served as its pastor for over 20 years. He was a firm believer in Calvinism, the Doctrines of Grace, and held to the early creeds. He would often say, "Let's go back to the Faith of our Fathers!" to encourage his congregation to be students of Bible history. He was influential in preparing and raising up Elders and Deacons to continue the mission of preaching "just plain truth" from the Bible no matter the consequence. Pastor Ron, as the community knew him, was a bold voice on KURV 710AM Talk radio. His inspiring and thought provoking 1-minute radio spots could be heard across the Rio Grande Valley. He recorded over 100 different spots, radio & TV interviews, and teachings. His boldness was more evident from the pulpit and teachings can be found online at www.CoTKMcAllen.org. His most memorable quote was: "Side with God against yourself and be a winner!" He went to be with the LORD, surrounded by his wife and daughters. Preceding him in death were his parents, and one great grandchild, Rome. Surviving him is his wife of 64 years, Linda, four daughters: Amy (Troy) Thomas, Elisa Struthers, Susan (Phil) Thomas, and Ronda (Britt) White; 14 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren; his sister, Dianne McGrath; his sister-in-law, Pat Lenker, and 5 nephews. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at 10:30 AM at his beloved Church of the King (7401 N. Ware Road in McAllen) with refreshments following the service. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Church of the King or charity of your choice.