Ronald Eugene Smith, of Eatonton, Ga, was born June 12, 1961, and was finally free from pain on August 29, 2024, surrounded by his family.
Born and raised in Commerce, Ga, Ronnie learned he was a natural engineer early on.
After working a few odd jobs (including one as an airplane mechanic in trade for pilot lessons), he found his calling in telecommunications, specifically the cable industry. He would spend the remainder of his life traveling across the US, gaining new skills, leaving a legacy as a consultant “who could solve most issues sight unseen” and had “work so perfect it was easily recognized as his.”
He was driven to succeed and insisted on making sure his children had an easier start in adulthood than he had.
He proudly owned the name Grandpa to his seven grandkids and enjoyed spending time outdoors with them on the river or in the woods with his many toys.
But his favorite place was on his airplane with his beloved puppies, Lady and Ella.
He is preceded in death by his father, Lenzia Smith.
Leaving behind family and friends who already miss his larger-than-life personality: his mother, Rachel Smith; son, Richard (Veronica) Smith; daughter, Sabrina (Brian) Chambers; grandchildren: Joshua, Kyler, Pierce, Lily, Holden, Lucas, and Jesse; brothers Randy (Donna) and Ralph (Sue) Smith; sister, Belinda (Joe) Catlett, and countless nieces, nephews, friends and loved ones.
A memorial service was held at 3 p.m. Sunday, September 1, 2024, at Ivie Funeral Home Chapel, with Dr. Bill King officiating. Visitation preceded the memorial service at 2 p.m. Friends and family gathered on Monday at 4 p.m. at Ronald’s residence on the river to spread his remains.
A celebratory cookout followed.
Instead of flowers, please make donations to Cure Childhood Cancer, as he said he couldn’t imagine any child suffering, or to Penfield Addiction Ministries, a place where he found great peace and great friends.