Johnnie Ray Smith

Johnnie Ray Smith, 85, of Indianapolis, passed away November 6, 2019. Johnnie was born May 8, 1934, in Lobelville, Tennessee, to the late Ray and Annie (Clark) Smith. He moved to Indianapolis in May 1955; where he met the love of his life, Betty Crews, who he married in 1956. In 1966 Johnnie and Betty were blessed with a son Matthew Carl Smith.

Johnnie proudly served in the United States Army from 1957 to 1959. He was employed by Diamond chain for 15 years. He later went to work for Ford Motor Company for 28 years until he retired in 1996. He was a long time member at the Life Line Baptist Church. Johnnie enjoyed fishing on his bass boat, hunting, and playing the guitar. He also enjoyed watching the Indiana Pacers, the Indianapolis Colts, and NASCAR. He will be greatly missed by decades of loving family and friends.


In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings, William Claude Smith, Bobby Jo Smith, Jack Clark Baker, Albert Smith, Leslie Smith, Madaline Thompson, Mary Fleener, and his twin, Annie Mae Smith.

Survivors include his wife of 63 years, Betty; their son, Matthew, his wife Jaemala, and grandson, Adam Lee. Brothers, Charles and Gene Smith of Tennessee; and sister, Goldie Adams.

Visitation will be Saturday, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., November 9, 2019, at Life Line Baptist Church: 13387 N. Slideoff Rd, Camby, Indiana 46113. Service will begin at 12 p.m. at the church. Burial will follow at the West Newton Cemetery. While flowers are welcome, memorial contributions may be made to Indiana Parkinson Foundation: 14350 Mundy Drive Suite 800#181, Noblesville, Indiana 46060. Visit www.CarlisleBranson.com to share a favorite memory or to sign the online guest registry.