Richmond V. Smith, also known as Big Baby or Sonny, left this earthly life to return to his heavenly home on Sunday. October 31, 2021. At the time of his passing Richmond was 96 years of age and a resident of Columbus, Ohio. Richmond was born May 29, 1925, in Tchula MS, but moved to Memphis, TN while in junior high school.

Upon graduation from Booker T. Washington High School in Memphis, Richmond was drafted into the United States Navy where he served during World War II and received an honorable discharge. Life's journey would lead him to Chicago, IL where he met the love of his life, Anna L. Thomas, through a mutual friend, and on January 15, 1950, they were united in holy matrimony at Coppins A.M.E. Church in Chicago.

A faithful servant of God, Richmond served for over fifty years as an usher at Arnett A.M.E. Church in Chicago and later at Burks Chapel after moving to Paducah to act as a caregiver for an elderly relative.

Richmond used his time in retirement to enjoy the simpler things of life. He loved taking long walks, tending to his garden, and traveling to visit family.

Preceding him in death are his wife of 61 years, Anna L. Smith; one son, Richmond Jeffrey; two sisters, Alice B. Hayes and Lilly B. Scott; two brothers, Otis Smith and Edward Smith; and his parents, Richmond D. and Dora L. Smith.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory his daughter , Linda (Ronald) Payne of Pickerington, OH; one daughter-in-law , Brigitte (wife of late husband Richmond Jeffrey) Smith of Springfield, IL; five grandchildren , Richmond J. Smith Jr., Adam Smith, Mark Smith, Ryan Payne and Lauren Payne; two great grandchildren , Brayden and Isabella, children of Ryan Payne; and several nieces, nephews, cousins and other family members and friends .

Funeral services are scheduled for Friday, November 12, 2021, here at Pettus-Rowland Funeral Home with burial to follow in Oak Grove Cemetery with military honors.

Friends may also call on the family here from 11:00 a.m. until the funeral hour.

All attendees are required to wear masks.