FRANKLIN
Raymond L. Smith of Franklin, IN passed away peacefully on September 21, 2023, at Compass Park, surrounded by his family. Raymond was born in Franklin to James M. and Lucy (Stillabower) Smith on December 3, 1930. He was the fifth of six children.
Raymond was a 1949 graduate of Franklin High School. He was an avid sports enthusiast and excelled at basketball. He was drafted into the Army in 1951, during the Korean War. He served 17 months on the battlefield and during that time reached the rank of Staff Sergeant. Upon his return home in the spring of 1953, he met former prom queen Sue Grooms. They were married November 1, 1953, an almost 70 year marriage.
He was employed by Johnson Memorial Hospital for thirty years as a Laundry Manager. He later worked for Franklin High School as a Custodian in the Natatorium ten years.
Raymond’s greatest enjoyment came from nature and watching his son and grandchildren play sports. He was an avid hunter and fisherman who enjoyed numerous hunting and fishing trips with his brother, brother-in-law, father-in-law and friends. He especially enjoyed mushroom hunting. He taught his children about the outdoors, hunting and fishing. He was a purveyor of tall tales and mischief. He loved sharing stories about his upbringing and adventures.
Raymond was a member of Grace United Methodist Church and American Legion Post 205.
Raymond is survived by his wife Sue, their children, Jim (Cindy) Smith of Franklin, Mary Jo (Barry) Copeland of Greenwood, and John Smith of Franklin. He is also survived by a sister, Frances Spaulding, grandchildren Ryan Smith, Abigail (Kevin) Copeland, John (Erica) Copeland, Courtney (Kyle) Wiegand, Eric (Amber) Smith, and Ciara (Aric) Speziale. Also, great grandchildren Hannah, Rylee, Easton, Alaric, Hayden and many nieces and nephews.
Raymond was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Virgil and Eugene, and sisters Pauline and Ruth.
The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Compass Park at the Masonic Home. You made his final months as enjoyable as possible and he loved so many of you.
Visitation for family and friends will be on Tuesday, October 3, 2023 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Flinn and Maguire Funeral Home, 2898 North Morton Street, (U.S. 31 North) in Franklin with a Celebration of Raymond’s life at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 3rd at the funeral home. Military Honors will be conducted immediately following the service by the Franklin American Legion Post No. 205.
Expressions of caring and kindness may be received to the family at www.flinnmaguire.net
