Raymond H. Smith, Jr.

Col. Raymond H. Smith, Jr., US Army Retired, died at 8am on Tuesday, October 16, 2012 at his residence in Monticello. Raymond was born in Rensselaer on June 5, 1922 in Rensselaer to the late Raymond H and Pansy (Hagle) Smith, Sr. His marriage was to Lucie Wensdorfer on April 17, 1947 in Frankfort, Germany. She preceded him in death on April 21, 1989. Raymond graduated from Rensselaer High School with the class of 1941 and enrolled at Purdue University, where he joined the R.O.T.C. progam. Mr. Smith was a highly decorated career soldier. In 1942 Raymond was drafted into the military service. He served in the First Infantry Division's front line assault in the Battle of the Bulge. In 1947 Raymond returned to Rensselaer with his new bride, Lucie and daughter Elke to join his father on the farm. In 1950 he was called back into the service, where he served in the Korean War and two tours in Vietnam. Raymond moved to Monticello in 1991 where he became actively involved in the White County Amateur Market Watchers. Those that knew Raymond knew him to be a man of highest integrity, honesty, and fairness. A devoted husband and father who gave strength, guidance, and unconditional love to his family putting them before all else. His family and friends will miss him deeply but will carry the lessons learned from him forever. His passing will be deeply mourned by his surviving three daughters: Elke (Kevin) Quinn of Savannnah, Georgia; Shirley (Ray) Cook of Montrose, Colorado and Linda Smith-Hampton of Holly-Hill, FL. He is also survived by his sisters; Audrey (Howard) Cook of Dayton, OH and Mary (Jim) Boles of Remington , and two brothers, Bob and Jim Smith both of Texas; one grandson, Brian Cook of Montrose,Colorado. He is also survived by his special Monticello Family, Charlotte Neininger and family. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the funeral service at 3pm on Thursday, October 18, 2012 at Springer-Voorhis-Draper Funeral Home. Raymond will join his wife, Lucie in their final resting place in Florida National Cemetery with full military rites. Memorial Donations may be given to the White County Food Pantry. You may sign the online guestbook at www.springerfuneralhome.com