Richard Raphew Smith

Richard Raphew Smith, age 89 of Gainesville, passed away Thursday, June 9, 2016 at his residence.

Funeral services are scheduled for Thursday, June 16, 2016 at St. Paul United Methodist Church 705 Summit Street SE Gainesville, Georgia 30503 at 11:00am with Dr. Marcus E. Dixon and Pastor Clarence Thrower officiating. Mr. Smith will lie in state at the church from 10:00am-11:00am prior to the service. The wake will be held on Wednesday, June 15, 2016 from 6:00-8:00pm at the funeral home.

Mr. Smith was born July 9, 1926 in Gainesville, Georgia to Ritch Gillard and Maggie Smith. He was a World War II Veteran of the United States Army and was a member of St. Paul United Methodist Church, where he was on the usher board for over 50 years. Mr. Smith was a member of the board of directors of the City of Gainesville Park and Recreation division for over 25 years. Mr. Smith was in charge of the De Sota Street Park and was the park keeper many years. The Tennis court and playground area were named after Richard.

Mr. Smith was an associate member of the Vietnam Veterans, a member of the Oakwood, Georgia American Legion and a member of the Disabled American Veterans.  He was retired from Gainesville Machine and was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Colene Smith; brothers, Lovie C. Smith, Sr. and John R. Smith; sisters, Nitnene Smith, Pearliene Smith and Charlotte Smith, and grandson, James Collins II.

Mr. Smith is survived by his daughter, Annie Pearl of Gainesville; son, Stacy (Sharon “MeMe” Porter) Randolph; sister, Magnolia Smith of Gainesville, and grandchildren, Tia Keith, Frederick Austin Jr., Kevin Randolph, Jaquan Randolph, and Stacey Nicely and a host of  nieces, nephews and other relatives.

In Lieu of flowers the family is requesting that you make donations to Gainesville Park and Recreation Agency, 830 Green Street NE Gainesville, Ga 30501. Designate Contributions to the Richard R. Smith Memorial fund.

Special thanks to Stacy “MeMe” and Annie for taking such good care of Richard, Great Job! A special thanks to Richard Bellows for Handling Richard’s Finances, Great Job! Our Love to Magnolia for being such a great sister to Richard. Wendy Paradis was designated by Richard to Plan his Funeral Home event.

Memorial Park Funeral Home, 2030 Memorial Park Road, Gainesville, GA  30504 is in charge of arrangements. www.memorialparkfuneralmhomes.com