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Outgoing and full of personality, he never met a stranger and had a way of making everyone around him feel like a friend.

Mr. Ray Cliett Smith, age 64, of Hazlehurst, passed away on Sunday, August 16, 2026, at his home, under the care of Coastal Hospice.

He was born on November 21, 1961, in Douglas to the late Grady Vasco Smith and Marie Willene Hesters Smith. He was a native and lifelong resident of Jeff Davis County and a member of Hazlehurst Church of God. He was a true sports fanatic, proudly cheering on the Georgia Bulldogs and serving as the loudest Jeff Davis County fan around. He enjoyed spending his time outdoors, whether playing a round of golf, throwing horseshoes, or fishing. Above all, he loved his family, especially his grandchildren. One of his greatest joys was watching his grandsons play baseball and proudly supporting them from the stands. He was a good man who treated everyone with kindness and warmth. Outgoing and full of personality, he never met a stranger and had a way of making everyone around him feel like a friend.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his sister, Terry Lynn Cason.

Ray is survived by his beloved wife of 44 years, Lisa Smith of Hazlehurst; his son, Cody Smith of Hazlehurst; his daughters, Heather (Shaun) Edenfield, and Courtney Hulett (Shawn Murphy), all of Hazlehurst; his brother, Buddy (Sherry) Smith of Hazlehurst; his sister, Sandy (Mike, “Uncle Dave”) Daniels of Hazlehurst; his step-father, W.C. (Valdese) Yawn of Hazlehurst; six grandchildren, Kailee Johns, Bryce Edenfield, Andrew Hulett, Bre Edenfield, Zack Hulett, and Zoey Hulett; one great-grandson, Brodie Edenfield; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at 3:00 P.M. at House of Grace Church (3 Pecan Dr, Hazlehurst, GA 31539) with Rev. Thomas Colter and Rev. Alvin Merritt officiating.

Visitation will be from 2:00 P.M. until just prior to the service.

Burial will follow in the Yawn Cemetery.

The family invites all in attendance to honor Ray by wearing the colors/gear of Jeff Davis County or your favorite college football team.

Active pallbearers will be Cody Smith, Bryan Daniels, Dylan Carter, Justin Carter, Dakota Cason, and Mark Shell.

Wainright-Parlor Funeral Home and the Smith family are in charge of arrangements.