James Ralph "Sonny" Smith

James Ralph Smith, affectionately known to family and friends as "Sonny," passed away peacefully on June 30, 2026, at the age of 72 at the Community Living Center of the VA Hospital, where he had resided since suffering a stroke in 2017. Sonny was born on January 16, 1954, in Magee, Mississippi, to Ralph Smith and Annie Lois Smith. He graduated from high school in 1972 and proudly enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving his country honorably for two years.

He is survived by his three children: Stacey Smith Aultman and her husband, Kyle, of Sumrall, Mississippi; Brad Smith and his wife, Maghan, of Sumrall, Mississippi; and Coby Smith and his wife, Brooke, of Sumrall, Mississippi. He also leaves behind six beloved grandchildren: Ethan Aultman, Eli Aultman, Noah Smith, Rylee Smith, Sawyer Smith, and Stella Smith, all of Sumrall. Being their grandfather brought him immeasurable pride and happiness. Sonny is also survived by his siblings: Ronnie Smith and his wife, Christy, of Pearl, Mississippi; Beverly Alford and her husband, Jerry, of Ridgeland, Mississippi; Stanley Smith and his wife, Patti, of Brandon, Mississippi; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Ralph Smith, in 1995, and his mother, Annie Lois Smith, in 2026.

Although he will be deeply missed, his family finds comfort in knowing that his struggles have ended and that his memory will forever remain in their hearts.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." — Matthew 25:23

Visitation will be held from 10:00am – 11:30 am at Wright & Ferguson Funeral Home in Flowood. A graveside service will follow at Floral Hills Memorial Gardens in Pearl.