Raymond Archer Smith

Raymond A. Smith, age 89, passed away peacefully at his residence on Monday, 1/26/26 surrounded by his wife and their 8 loving children. 

Ray was born in Kentucky where he and his wife Peggy Smith (nee Peter) welcomed and raised their family. While he was not given siblings by birth, he loved and was loved by his siblings-in-law Patty Cueva (late Luis), John Peter(Bonnie), Dennis Peter (Debbie), and Jeanmarie Gregg (Don). 

He welcomed each of his children with immense joy and demonstrated this in all interactions with them… big and small. His children, Peg Adams (Dale), Ray Smith (Stephanie), Michael Smith (Jennifer “Coleman”),J.P. Smith (Kelsey), Jennifer Schafer (Robert), Kathy Daley (John), Anne Wolking (Doug), and Theresa Kayiatos (Nick) will cherish memories of him whether it be a round of golf, running mortgage loan numbers “just for fun,” visiting his animal friends at the zoo, lively conversations about movies from his extensive personal film library, or spirited discussions about sports of all kinds. 

Ray had a deep appreciation for life and took great joy in introducing his children and grandchildren to a wide variety of interests, activities, and perspectives. Above all, they will treasure witnessing his unwavering love and admiration for their mother. Also left to cherish his memory are 23 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Ray was preceded in death by his parents Henry and Helen Smith and Mary and Pete Keller and his parents-in-law John and Mary Peter. 

Ray proudly served in the U.S. Naval Reserve from 1955 to 1963. He attended Instructor School in Norfolk, Virginia, then returned to the Covington Naval Reserve Center to serve as an instructor, recruiter and editor. He earned the rank of Yeoman Second Class and sailed on Destroyer Class Ships USS Earle B. Hall and twice on the USS Samuel B. Roberts. 

Some where along the way, Ray became a regular columnist for the Diocese of Covington Messenger in which he shared various life lessons while focusing on God’s love and guidance as the constant theme. A devoted Catholic, Ray was actively involved in his parish community for many years,serving as a lector, choir member, and lay minister. His faith was an integral part of his life and was reflected in the way he served others with kindness, humility, and generosity. 

Ray was proud of his long career in Savings & Loan business and later mortgage lending. Toward the end of that career and after retirement, he could be found on stage at Loveland Stage Company, Showboat Majestic, The Carnegie and more. He loved singing, acting, and writing,and he had a deep appreciation for the community of friends he gained through the Arts. As recently as October 2025, Ray could be found taking care of the clubhouse, grounds and people at Devou Park Golf and Event Center where he was loved and celebrated.

In Lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to: Be Concerned – The People’s Pantry 1100 W Pike Street, Covington, KY 41011 or Notre Dame Urban Education Center 14 E 8th, Covington, KY 41011