Ronald Smith Obituary
Ronald Smith, a cherished widower, father, grandfather, and friend passed away on April 6th, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and gratitude.
Born to August Jr. and Leona May (Leiter) Smith on November 4th, 1937, in Toledo, Ohio, he joined his siblings Robert, Audrey, Jeanne, and Charmaine. As a 16-year-old, he was hired to work on the docks unloading trucks. With his hard work, warm personality, and natural sales ability, he became a well-respected figure within the trucking industry, He built lasting relationships and developed lifelong friendships during his career that lasted just a few months shy of a remarkable 70 years.
An avid golfer and dancer, Ron found solace on the greens and joy on the dance floor with his beloved wife, Ali. He held her hand and took the lead as she developed dementia, and he remained by her side until November 9th, 2023, the day she died. He would never stop loving or missing her.
Ron never met a stranger, and he could strike up a conversation with anybody. He loved to tease and make people laugh and he was one of those rare breeds that would take time out of their day to pay a compliment or offer praise to someone. He looked forward to visiting with his friends and this was especially true in these last weeks and months.
Ron was preceded in death by his wife Alice Irene (Lukehart), his daughter Kelly Lynn, and his stepson, Michael. He is survived by his daughters Kim (Jim) Licata and Karen "Kerry" (Jodie) Grider, his son Chris (Wendy) Smith, and stepson Keith, and his grandchildren Jeremy, Shannon, Robert, Chelsea, Ian, and Amanda.
Ron's family is left with a lifetime of memories to cherish, as they take comfort knowing their father is dancing once more with Ali … and if there really is a heaven, he's golfing, too.
A celebration of Ron's life will be held on Monday, April 22, 2024, from 1-3pm at Cappuccino Italian Bistro at 1310 W. Campbell Road, Ste 135 Richardson, TX 75080. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you bring your funny stories and favorite memories of your time with their dad.
