David Ra Smith

     It is with a heavy heart that we announce the peaceful passing of David Ra Smith in the early hours of December 14th, 2023.  He was surrounded by loved ones at his home in Gooding, Idaho. 

     David was a lifelong cattleman and farmer devoted to his profession.  He leaves behind a legacy marked by unwavering dedication to his family, his farm, and the community he cherished.  

     David Ra Smith was born on July 2, 1939 in Boise, Idaho, the son of Angus and Aline Smith, of Grasmere, Idaho. David spent the first 6 years of his life at the family ranch on Mary’s Creek, going from one small ranch to another, following the cows to the top of Yankee Bill Summit in Nevada during the spring and summer, finally ending in Mountain City, Nevada. David loved the ranch in Owyhee County and the Tindall’s who were cousins on the Smith side.  He spoke fondly of his life there during his final days. 

     When he was 6 years old, the family decided to move to Gooding, where his Grandfather and Grandmother Adams lived, so he could attend school. It was here, in 1946, that his father Angus purchased a farm and small ranch on the Malad River West of Gooding. David stayed on the family ranch raising a herd of cattle and operating a small feedlot and farm until recently when his health began to decline and he sold the ranch to a longtime Gooding family.

     David attended school in Gooding and graduated from Gooding High School in 1957. He was a member of the Gooding Chapter FFA. On June 4, 1971, he married the love of his life, Carol Renner, and with this union came three stepchildren: Farrol, Cheryl, and Connie.

     David’s life was intricately woven into the farm and ranch community.  For forty-plus years, he served as a dedicated 4-H and FFA supporter and contributor.  David earned the title of Gooding County Farmer of the Year in 1983.  His dedication to hard work was present each day until his very last.  David leaves behind a legacy of honesty, hard work, and commitment.  His impact on his community will be remembered for generations.  Beyond the fields, David was a wonderful husband, father, and grandfather.  His final years were peaceful, holding hands with his wife Carol, and visiting with family, and friends.  

     Through it all, David seldom asked for help. Two men stood out and earned his trust and admiration.  Zane Wines, a former hand and long-time friend, held a place near and to David’s heart.  John Renner, David’s brother-in-law, was his lifelong best friend, working side by side for many years.

     David is preceded in death by his loving parents, Angus and Aline Smith, grandparents Ra and Sarah (Sadie) Smith, sister-in-law Leslie Renner, and several aunts, uncles, grandparents, and stepdaughters, Cheryl and Connie.

     He is survived by his devoted wife Carol Smith, sister, Donna Bennett (George) of Grandview, niece and nephew, stepson Farrol Renner, grandchildren Katie, Eric, Robyn, and Brandon, several great grandchildren, and a growing list of great-great grandchildren.

     Funeral services will be held at 10:00 am on Wednesday, December 27, 2023, at Demaray Funeral Service – Gooding Chapel.  Burial will follow at the Elmwood Cemetery in Gooding.

     A viewing will be held on Tuesday from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at The Chapel.

     As we bid farewell to this remarkable man, let us celebrate a life well-lived and cherish the enduring memories he leaves behind.

     David’s family would like to extend a special thanks to John Renner, for always supporting David no matter the chore, and Melody Fernandez for insuring him the opportunity to live his final days at home.

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