Raymond Smith, widely known as “Smith”, or “Smitty” passed away September 10, 2014. He was 69. A well regarded Handy Man and all around fixer-upper known for his warm smile and can-do work ethic, he designed, built and repaired from Silver Springs to Carson City throughout the last 30 years. He loved his work and his customers, taking deep pride in a job well done. He was always looking out for folks he came across that needed some help, or a job, or just some encouragement. He was born in Enid, Oklahoma but Nevada was his real home. He graduated from Hawthorne high school and worked within the state nearly his entire life. He really had a good time as a multi-year winner of the Nevada Day Beard contest. He would approach anyone with a good beard and try to get them to compete. His very favorite job was as Santa. He appeared in the annual Carson City Christmas Tree lighting ceremony at the state capital and at the city tree lighting, along with his wife, Mrs. Claus. He also owned, operated and appeared as Santa at the Carson Mall Santa concession. He convinced many children that their doubts about Santa were unfounded. He had seven happy years with his “Lady” Neviah, his wife and the love of his life. They married in November, 2013. He will be missed by many, but not lost, he gave his heart to the Lord in the last years of his life and so we will see him again. Ray is survived by his wife, Neviah Bogart, son Caine (Cindy), daughters Leslie, and Lindsey(Matthew), grandchildren Byron, Rayanne, and Ashlyn, and brother Roland (Merrie) and sister Sue (Tom). Please stop by the memorial display at the Nevada Day Parade, in the Robinson street viewing area on the west side of Carson Street during the parade.
