Daniel Raymond Smith, 91, of the Rocky Creek Community, entered his eternal home on October 15, 2025. He was born on October 28, 1933, on Tennessee Creek in the Brushy Creek community to Jesse Guy and Annie Lucille Cannon Smith.

On June 16, 1951, Raymond married the love of his life, Frances Louise Averett, at Rocky Creek Baptist Church. They shared 60 wonderful years together marked by love, faith, and family.

Raymond was a charter member and longtime secretary of the Rocky Creek Fire Department, serving faithfully until his passing. He was also a devoted member and deacon of Rocky Creek Baptist Church for over 55 years and taught the boys' Sunday School class for 47 years—shaping generations through his quiet example of faith and service. He and Mrs. Frances were actively involved in Campers On Mission.

A respected businessman, Raymond owned Smith's True Value Hardware in Lucedale for many years. Known for his honesty and willingness to help anyone, he was a trusted friend to many throughout the community.

On January 12, 2013, he married Willene Howell Smith, with whom he shared companionship and joy in his later years.

He is survived by his children: Michael Raymond (Selina) Smith, John David (Lisa) Smith, Rebecca Frances (Randy) Boone, Daniel Paul (Stacey) Smith, Roger Brian (Shannon) Smith

He is also survived by one brother, Guy (Christa) Smith of North Carolina; grandchildren:

Melissa (Shane) Stringfellow, Eric (Joy) Smith, Maegan (Scotty) Velasquez, Sabrina (Todd) Deakle, Jeremy (Chrissy Brown) Smith, Ross Boone, Matt (Gabby) Boone, Zack Boone, Rachel Boone, Paul (Jessica) Smith, Chris (Hayden) Smith, Quen (Brittany) Crabtree, Caleb (Adriane) Crabtree, Seth (Victoria) Crabtree, Faith (Owen Swisshelm) Smith, and Maggie (Brandon) Odom;

25 great-grandchildren and 10 great-great-grandchildren.

Raymond was preceded in death by his parents, Jesse and Lucille Smith, his first wife Frances Averett Smith, and his daughter-in-law Robin Smith.

Raymond's life reflected faith, humility, and service. Whether at his hardware store, teaching Sunday School, or serving the fire department, he led by example and touched countless lives. His legacy of love and devotion will live on through his family and the community he served so faithfully.

"Well done, good and faithful servant… enter into the joy of your Lord." – Matthew 25:21

Pallbearers will be his grandsons.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Rocky Creek Baptist Church for the Creek Kidz Building Fund or Bible Drill Scholarship.

The funeral will be held 12:00 pm on Saturday, October 18, 2025 at Rocky Creek Baptist Church, 2147 Rocky Creek Road, Lucedale, MS with Dr. Paul Brashier officiating.  Burial will be in Rocky Creek Cemetery, Lucedale, MS.

Calling hours will be Saturday, October 18, 2025 from 9:30am-12:00pm at Rocky Creek Baptist Church, 2147 Rocky Creek Road, Lucedale, MS.

Sigler Funeral Home, 601-947-3112, www.siglerfuneral.com, 4248 Main Street, Lucedale, MS, is in charge of arrangements.