Rickey Lee Smith, Sr.

Rickey Lee Smith, Sr., age 62, of Kingsport, passed away on Thursday, July 02, 2026, at The Greens of Erwin. He was born and raised in Cookeville. Rickey is a son of the late Cleatus Norman Smith and Jessie Bohannon Stuart. He moved to the Tri-Cities with his wife in 2005.

Rickey was owner and operator of Affordable Family Stump Removal. He was of the Baptist faith.

Rickey was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend. He enjoyed spending time with his family, fishing, riding motorcycles, ATV’s and camping.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one brother, Gregory Lynn Smith; special nephew, Charlie Smith; special friend who was like a brother to him, Alex Ponds.

Rickey leaves behind to cherish his memory, his loving wife of twenty-one years, Bonnie Lawrence Smith; five children: Maranda Lawrence, Skye Varela, Carrie Smith (fiancé, Cody Telford, Sr.), Benjamin Smith, and Rickey Smith, Jr.; four grandchildren: Romilly Stuart, Kamdon Green, Kayleigh Smith, and Cody Telford, Jr.; brother, Earl Smith; sister-in-law, Sundy Palmer; two special nieces: Joyce Marie and Jazzy Boe; two special nephews: Cody Smith, and Keyani.

Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it. Proverbs 22:6 NIV

A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold. Proverbs 22:1 NIV

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28 NIV

The family would greatly appreciate donations to help cover Rickey's cremation services. Donations/Payments can be made directly to the funeral home. 

Online condolences, photos and memories may be shared with the Smith family at www.ledfordfuneralhomes.com 

Robert Ledford Funeral Home, 720 Ohio Avenue, Erwin, is privileged to serve the Smith family. (423) 743-1380

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Rickey Lee Smith, Sr., please visit our floral store.