Ernest Ray Smith, 56, of Carthage, passed away on Monday evening, May 29, 2017, at his home. He was born on June 21, 1960, to the late Bishop and Rosie Lee Glaspie Smith. Mr. Smith attended Carthage schools. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, collecting guns and cars, riding motorcycles, working on motors, and sports. He worked for many years in the oil field service industry for Courtney Construction and more recently Arnold Trucking. Every little detail about Ernest was designed by God. He gave him a special gift to fulfill a unique purpose in this world and planned an adventure just for him. God knows him better and loves him more than anyone ever could. Ernest was our blessing. He lived his lifetime in Carthage and was of the Baptist faith. Mr. Smith was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Jimmy Smith, Clarence Smith, Bobby Ray Smith, and Johnny Charles Smith; sisters, Mattie Smith and Avon McClendon; numerous uncles and aunts; step-sons; and niece, Rose Marie Williams

Survivors include his son, Ernest Ray Smith, II and wife Consuella Rene of Carthage; brothers, Jamie Smith of Baton Rouge, John D. Smith of Carthage, and Randy Smith of Marshall, MN; sisters, Maxine Smith of Round Rock, Rosie Woods of San Antonio, Patsy Smith Alonzo and husband B.F. of Aubrey, and Elsie Smith Daniels and husband James of San Antonio; grandson, Ernest Ray Smith, III; 6 nephews, Antwana, Mark, Quincy, Jamon, Anthony, and James Daniels; 9 nieces, Elaine, Shirley, Monic Roshunda, Demetrice, Rugenia, Angela, Christel, Jamese, 33 great-nieces and great-nephews; two previous wives, Frankey and Debbie; one step-daughter; and a host of cousins, other relatives, and many friends.

A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 10, 2017, at Jimerson-Lipsey Funeral Home Chapel with Dr. James A. Daniels officiating. Interment will follow in Shady Grove Gary Cemetery.

Pallbearers are Curt Williams, Perrance Cole, Quincy Alonzo, Antonio Mitchell, Von Walton, Cody Turner, and Dominic Collins. Honorary pallbearers are Carlton Williams, Leo Sanders, Jimmy Mills, John D. Smith, and Bill William.

A guestbook may be signed online at www.jimerson-lipsey.com.