Clyde Ray Smith, Sr.

November 18, 2023

CHARLOTTE - Clyde Ray Smith, Sr., 91, of Charlotte, NC passed away peacefully at home late Saturday evening, November 18, 2023 surrounded by his devoted wife and loving family. 

As a native Charlottean, Ray was the son of the late Joseph Clyde and Emma Baker Smith. Ray made his career in the photofinishing business at an early age and retired as senior vice president from Colorcraft/Qualex Inc. in 1998 after 50 years in the business. 

Ray was a lifelong member of Calvary United Methodist Church with many leadership roles within the church and district. Ray’s faith was the cornerstone of his life and was exemplified through his dedication, generosity, and inspiration to many through his devotion to God. Ray completed four years of service in the United States Airforce, receiving the rank of Staff Sergeant, before his honorable discharge in 1955. He was also past Master of the Steele Creek Masonic Lodge #737.  

Everyone who knew Ray knew his passion for golf. He enjoyed traveling and playing different courses and loved the Masters Tournament. He was so honored to have attended 50 Masters Tournaments and had the opportunity to play the Augusta National course two times. Along with golf, he enjoyed volunteering in the community but most of all spending time with his family. Ray’s family meant the world to him and he cherished all the times they spent together especially the annual family beach trips. He truly leaves behind a legacy of love and wisdom that will continue to guide and inspire generations to come. 

Ray is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Marsha Hale Smith; children, Robert Craig “Bob” Smith (Terry), Rhonda Simmons, and Shannon Smith; grandchildren, Will Simmons (Hannah), Anne Smith, Mandy Selzer (Luke), Drew Smith (Giovanna), Ashley Barr (Scott), Jamie Gortney (Michael) and 11 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his late wife Marie Thornburg Smith (mother of Randy, Bob, and Rhonda), son Clyde Ray “Randy” Smith Jr., and brother William Donald Smith. 

Services will be held on Monday November 27, 2023 at Calvary United Methodist Church, 512 West Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28203. Visitation will be held at 10:15 AM followed by a Celebration of Life Service at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Calvary United Methodist Church. 

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences can be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.

Share your memories & condolences

Comments

  • Carl Hamill

    Ray was a great friend and colleague for more than twenty years and was a vital contributor to the success of our company. He was held in high regard by everyone in our industry who had the privilege of knowing him. His moral compass was instrumental in establishing and maintaining the corporate culture for which our company was noted. I, along with many others will always remember him with great admiration.

    Short URL:
  • Bob & Kelly Wren

    We’re sending lots of Love & many Prayers to your Family. What wonderful accomplishments will live on from his legacy. Love Bob & Kelly Wren.

    Short URL:
  • Jude houghton

    We loved Ray, as did so many others! My husband appreciated his down to earth style which made him so approachable to those unaffiliated with a church family. Ray's faith in Jesus Christ was contagious. His everyday reach to the unchurched, such as my husband, displayed his passion to the Lord and the Word. God bless Ray and may he rest in the love of our Lord Jesus Christ our Lord and saviour. Amen.

    Short URL:
  • jack king

    Ray was an icon and great leader in the photo industry. I had the pleasure of being his customer for decades and have many great memories of Ray organizing the golf events for Dixie Photo Marketing Association. My prayers for his family.

    Short URL:
  • Jeanie Christenbury

    Ray was such a fine man. I had the privilege of working for him for only 5 years but we stayed in touch. There's a void here where he once was but don't the heavens seem brighter. RIP Ray.

    Short URL:
  • Clifford Austin

    My masonic Brother will be sorely missed by the Austin family.
    I first met Ray in 1998, when he affiliated with Steele Creek
    Lodge #737. My father and I were the Kitchen Committee and
    Ray asked if he could join us, but warned that he could not boil
    water without scorching it.
    Needless to say, he did join us and served on that committee for over fifteen years.
    When I was buildin g my house in 2002, Ray voluntarily came and helped me
    paint the rooms. We would go next door to Dad's for lunch and that is when he met
    the rest of the family.
    i am just grateful that I got to know Ray and to share a part of his life.

    Short URL:
  • Juliana Flowe

    I met you and Ray when I enrolled you guys in a health insurance plan…You quickly became more then clients, Ray referred me to many of his friends. I could tell there was much love in your home. My heart and prayers are with you Marsha, family and friends. I know Ray left a big hole in your hearts. God bless you and keep you ???❤️

    Short URL:
  • Kathy Baxter

    My heart goes out to the Smith Family.
    I’ve known Ray through his daughter Rhonda (my best friend ) for many many years.
    His wife Marsha & Rays love for each other was beautiful.
    These 2 Christians were givers of the world.
    He loved his big Family. His beach-days with them all every year just meant so much Love to him.
    If you knew Ray, you were very fortunate.
    He raised his family right & to love God with all your heart.
    I will miss him even though I haven’t got to see him lately.

    May God you comfort & Rest knowing that your husband/father/brother/Grandkids/great grand kids know that he met Jesus.
    What a great reunion that has to be.

    Short URL:
  • Ron Ware

    Ray was a wonderful male role model as I grew through my youth to adulthood at Calvary Methodist Church. He led an impressive life and succeeded in all endeavors but nothing meant more to him than family.

    Short URL:
  • Joel Elmore

    What incredible man! Ray was the rock of the family and a true leader. He was a great father and husband. A man anyone could model his life after. From a very young man till now I always respected him. Ray’s daughter Rhonda and I were the best of friends growing up and she sure loved her dad and family! Ray’s faith was very important to him, so we all know he has arrived home. Thank you Ray for your wonderful life and knowing you as my friend!

    Short URL: