Lt. Col.Raymondf. Smith

Raymond F. Smith, 84, went to sleep with the angels Monday, January 28, at Olathe Medical Center from pulmonary illness. Ray was born on July 10, 1928, in Olathe, KS, to Elsie and Anthony Smith, the 6th of 8 children. He married Joanne "Jo" Cumley on February 7, 1953, in St. Paul's Church in Olathe. Ray and his identical twin Bob joined the Air Force in 1946 immediately following their high school graduation. He served as a non-commissioned officer for 9 years, earning the rank of Technical Sergeant, then received his officer's commission in 1955. He rose to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, retiring from the service in 1977 when he moved back to his hometown. Ray served in both Korea and Vietnam, earning many decorations, including the prestigious Bronze Star. Ray spent many hours on the golf course with his best friend, Tony Martini of Olathe, and also marshaled at Ironhorse and Heritage Golf Courses. He was a long-time member of St. Paul's Church in Olathe before moving to Divine Mercy Parish in Gardner. Ray is survived by his wife of 60 years, Jo, of the home; his sister, Mary ("Edd") Eddington of El Dorado Hills, CA ; their 8 children, Cheri Barad of Boston, MA; Carol Smith of Olathe, KS; Cathy (Geff Moyer) Smith of Olathe, KS; Steve Smith of Olathe, KS; Mark (Barb) Smith of Shawnee, KS; Colleen (Jack) Heistand of Scottsdale, AZ; Barb Suter of Olathe, KS; Beverly Smith of New River, AZ; 20 grandchildren; and 9 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his 5 brothers, Al, Ernest, Joe, Ed, Robert, and his sister, Margaret Suenaga.
The family suggests contributions to the church building fund and/or St. Jude's Children's Hospital. To leave a special message for the family, please visit our website at www.PenwellGabelOlathe.com