Ralph was born on March 1, 1946 to the late Ralph O. Smith and the late Louise Cox in LaGrange, Georgia. He is survived by his devoted wife of 55 years Dianne; his three daughters Paula Earl (Ayshle), Brandy Smith, and Wendy Smith (Clint & Christina Bartley); five grandchildren, Parker Earl, Luke Earl, Smith Bartley, Dexton Bartley, and Adalynn Bartley; his sister Teresa Watson (Danny); and a number of half-siblings, step-siblings, nieces, and nephews.
Ralph met his wife Dianne in Americus, Georgia in 1966, and they wed in 1967.
While helping on the farm with his stepfather, the late W.G. Cox, Ralph grew to become independent at a very early age. He started working at the County Line package store that was co-owned by his father before he was old enough to drive. From there, he enjoyed working at the Well’s Dairies for a short period of time before he moved to a career in the furniture business at Kinder’s Manufacturing, which ultimately moved him to North Carolina.
Ralph and his wife Dianne later found themselves in Columbus, Georgia, where he once again went to work for his father in the liquor business. Continuing down that path, Ralph eventually owned and operated Mr. B’s liquor store for 47 years. He was an integral part of keeping small business liquor stores in business and fought for their rights serving as a board member of the Georgia Alcohol Dealers Association for many years. Among his other accomplishments, Ralph also served on the board of Glenwood School.
Ralph was loved and adored by all that knew him because of his willingness and desire to help those for whom he cared.
Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation from 10am-12pm at Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, 4071 Macon Road, Columbus, Georgia 31907 on Monday, January 16th, and a service will follow at 12 noon. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hope Harbor and St. Jude.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.shcolumbus.com for the Smith family.
