Bennett Adam Raymond Smith, Jr. 'Ray' 72, of Irwin, died Wednesday, September 11, 2024. He was born January 5, 1952, in Braddock, a son of the late Mary C. Smith and Bennett Adam Raymond Smith and was also preceded in death by his sister Linda DiLauro. Ray was raised by his mother and his step-father Clarence Cherry. Ray retired from the Westmoreland County Blind Association as the Manufacturing Supervisor. He formerly owned his own business, R. A. Smith Plumbing & Heating, then received a master's degree from Seton Hill College and worked at PPG in their research and development center. Ray enjoyed planting flowers, porch sitting, beach trips, crossword puzzles and most of all his family time. Together they would enjoy cookouts and watching Steeler and Pirate games together with cherished aunts, uncles and cousins. In his early years, Ray marched with the Pittsburgh Rockets and the Yankee Rebels, playing soprano. He then went on to become a field judge for WGI and DCE, judging drum & bugle corps and color guard shows. Ray was a social member of the J. Howard Snyder VFW Post 781 of Irwin. He took pride in participating in and organizing different community events over the years. Ray especially enjoyed driving the limo and participating in the Memorial Day parade each year. He is survived by his daughter Megan Vertes (Robert) of Irwin; four grandchildren Bennett Dandar (Monique), Julia Gaudio (Sergio), Brad Dandar, and Anastasia Vertes (Jesse). He is survived by three brothers Ron Smith, Ike Smith and David Cherry; also nieces and nephews. Ray is also survived by his former wife and dear friend Melissa Snyder Smith of Irwin and was a beloved member of the Snyder family. Friends will be received from 3pm to 7pm Thursday, September 12th, at the William Snyder Funeral Home, 521 Main Street, Irwin, where a memorial service will be held at 7PM. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Don Kattic Pavilion Project currently in progress. Contributions should be sent to VFW Post 781, 100 Billott Ave., North Huntingdon, PA 15642. In the memo line indicate pavilion fund. For online condolences please visit www.snyderfuneralservices.com. To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.