Mr. Willie Junior "Ray" Smith departed this life Thursday, October 19, 2023 at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist.

Willie Junior "Ray" Smith Sr. was born in Edgecombe County, Rocky Mount, NC to the late James Smith Sr. and Betty Mercer Smith. He started out working at Mr. Steak and held various positions in several different restaurants throughout Winston Salem ending his career at the famous Sweet Potatoes Restaurant. He enjoyed fishing with his special friend Girl (The dog). He was married to Gloria O'Neil in 1995 and from that union graced the presence of two children A'JanNe' and Willie Smith Jr. (Kyrah) and two grandsons Kam'Ron Hilliard and Karter Smith. He is survived by (1) one brother Curtis Smith Sr, and preceded in death by (4) brothers: James Smith Jr., Abraham Royster, Lorenzo Smith, George Smith, and (2) Sisters Minnie Ruth Smith and Annie Smith Hummings. He is also survived by a Host of Nieces, great-nieces, Nephews, and great nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held 11:30 am  Friday October 27, 2023 in the chapel of Hooper Funeral Home. The family will receive friends from 11:00 am-11:30am Friday. His remains may be viewed Thursday October 26, 2023 from 12 noon to 6pm at the funeral home.