Andrew "Ray" Smith, age 83, went to his heavenly home on July 28, 2024 at Sarasota Memorial, surrounded by his family. He was born on July 21st, 1941 in Estero, Fl to Hugh and Della Smith of Estero.

He survived by his wife of 52 years, Roberta "Bobbie" Smith, daughter Marilyn Patton of Arcadia and sons Robert Smith of Arcadia and Jackie (Tanya) Smith of O'Brien, Fl; 11 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren and 1 great grand fur baby, which he thought the world of and numerous nieces and nephews. Ray is preceded in death by his son-in-law John Patton of Arcadia, his sister Kay and husband John McCullers of Estero, his brother George Smith (Luan) of California and his parents Hugh and Della Smith of Estero.

Ray was well known in the community as the Postmaster of Nocatee, where he worked 35 years in the postal service. Most say when going into the post office you knew you were going to be a while because Mr. Ray loved to hold conversations and catch up on how the family was doing. He dedicated many years to the youth in DeSoto county by volunteering and supporting the youth agriculture programs and exhibitors.  Ray appreciated the little things in life. You could find him every morning feeding the birds, squirrels and cranes from his lawn chair every morning. He loved tinkering in his shed, fishing, putting together jigsaw puzzles, playing trivia against game shows and most importantly spending time with his family. Ray also loved taking his wife and great grand fur baby to Joshua Citrus to enjoy ice cream.

Visitation is at 10:00am on Saturday, August 10, 2024 at Ponger-Kays-Grady Funeral Home (Arcadia) with funeral service at 11:00. The interment will follow at Joshua Creek Cemetery.

Online condolences can be made at www.pongerkaysgrady.com

Ponger-Kays-Grady Funeral Homes & Cremation Services have been entrusted with the arrangements.