Minister Richard "Ricky" Smith

On January 29, 1958 Richard Smith was born in Jackson, Mississippi to the late Flora Johnson-Smith and Walter Walker. Throughout his life he was known and called by many names-Richard, Ricky, Rick, Doc, Uncle Rick and Unc by the many family, friends and business associates that knew him. Rick grew up in the Florence Community. Life for him was no crystal stair. He was raised and grew up in the hands of a loving, caring and nurturing grandmother Caroline Bogan Johnson-Amos and later by his aunt Maggie Lee Webb, due to the early death of his mother. Both women were very instrumental in his religious and secular education. Rick attended Florence High School (Class of 1976) where he was an outgoing student, a drum major, played several instruments in the band and even drove the school bus. After graduating from high school, he attended Olive Harvey College in Chicago, Illinois where he received an Associate degree in business. He later attended Jackson State University and took Business and Accounting courses. He also studied at Flag Chapel Bible College. Rick was a man of faith who loved the Lord. And after running for many years, he accepted his calling and was ordained and licensed as a Minister of the Gospel in 2010. His ministry provided many opportunities to spread the Gospel both locally and out-of-state. He was a longtime member of New Hope MB Church and served as the Trustee Ministry Chairman, Sunday School Teacher, Sunday School Superintendent, and an Associate Minister. He also served as President of the Spring Hill District Sunday School Institute from 1994-1998 and was a Missionary for the Spring Hill District Association for over 10 years. Rick was a sharp and processional dresser. He had an aura for business. He owned his own soft drink business in the 80's. He worked in the new and used car business for over 30 years. From Salesman, to Service Advisor, to Finance Manager at several local and out-of-town car dealerships. He loved what he did and he did it well. He dealt with individuals, families and even churches as repeat customers. This became the bread and butter by which he provided for his family and he was a good provider. Rick loved the outdoors. He enjoyed fishing, hunting and gardening. He was a great cook. He shared his bounties with families and friends. He took pride in a well maintenance lawn. He was a skilled craftsman in woodwork, creating many of the pieces in his home and others. Rick met and was united in Holy Matrimony to Glynis Burns. The Lord allowed them to enjoy thirty three blessed years together. One daughter, Rica, was born to this union. On June 23, 2024, Rick was called to his eternal rest. He was preceded in death by his mother, grandmother, father, daughter Nikki Boone, sisters: Debra Cooper and Carolyn Williams, brothers: Lawrence Johnson, Joe Walker, Tyrone Walker, Richard Adams Saddened by his home going but cherishing his memories are: a faithful and devoted wife Glynis Smith, daughter Rica Smith, brothers: Robert Jones, F.R. Lenoir (Joycie), sisters: Gloria Calloway, Walterine Dinkins (Andrew), Cassandra Walker, Sister-in-law, Gail Johnson and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Minister Richard "Ricky" Smith

January 29, 1958 - June 23, 2024