Ronnie L Smith Sr.

February 4, 1948 - August 28, 2021

Ronnie L. Smith Sr., 73, of Heidelberg, MS passed away at South Central Regional Medical Center in Laurel, MS on Saturday, August 28, 2021. He was born February 4, 1948 at Watkins Memorial Hospital in Quitman, MS. He was the oldest of ten siblings and attended Zach Huggins High School in Quitman, MS. Ronnie served in the U. S. Army during the Vietnam War. He was awarded two purple hearts and numerous medals for his bravery after he was shot during a fire fight with the Viet Cong. He was a faithful member of Corinth Baptist Church in Heidelberg. Ronnie is survived by his wife of 35 years, Liz Myrick Smith, who he often referred to as the “love of his life”; three sons, Ronnie L. Smith Jr. of Brandon, MS, Brad Myrick (Alison) of Gardendale, AL, and Shawn P. Myrick (Monica) of Ellisville, MS; one daughter, Sandi Reeves (Tony) of Petal, MS ; and seven granddaughters, Gabriel Rule, Jaina Crawford, Mary Grace Myrick, Katie Myrick, Halle Myrick, Kendall Wicker, and Blair Wicker. He is also survived by seven siblings, Jo Ann Bishop (Bill), Johnny Smith, Jack Smith (Dot), Linda Dunnam, Ricky Smith (Suzanne), Cindy Schrock (Kurt), and Sam Smith (Angie); numerous nieces and nephews; and his beloved poodle, Pappy Jake. Ronnie was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Elizabeth Smith; brother, Donnie Smith; and sister, Judie Bounds. A graveside services will be held at Corinth Baptist Church Cemetery, 321 County Road 33, Heidelberg, MS 39439 on Thursday, September 2, 2021 at 10 a.m. Bro. Jamie Matthews will officiate. The family asks loved ones to practice social distancing and wear masks during the service. Pallbearers will be Ronnie L. Smith Jr., Brad Myrick, Shawn P. Myrick, Sam Smith, Tyler Smith, Justin Smith, and Josh Walters. Honorary pallbearers will be Jack Smith, Johnny Smith, and Ricky Smith. The family wishes to thank the caring 1st West, ICU, and respiratory staff at South Central Regional Medical Center for the compassion shown to us during Ronnie’s illness. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to Gideons International or the Corinth Baptist Church Cemetery fund. To sign the online guest book, visit www.memorychapellaurel.com.