Ronald Luther Smyer

Ronald Luther Smyer, 84, of Lufkin, passed away peacefully on July 1, 2026, on his 84th birthday. Born on July 1, 1942, Ronald was the son of Ethel Mae Smyer, née Mills, and Joseph Luther Smyer. Throughout his life, Ronald was known as a hardworking man, a devoted husband and father, and someone who truly embraced adventure, faith, and the joy of living life fully. Ronald spent much of his professional life working as an electrician and was a proud member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. His strong work ethic and dedication to his trade reflected the kind of man he was—dependable, skilled, and committed to doing things the right way. Earlier in life, Ronald served as a sheriff’s deputy in Fort Lauderdale during the 1960s, a role that demonstrated his sense of service and willingness to protect and serve others. During his years living in Florida, Ronald developed a love for the water and adventure, spending time scuba diving, spear fishing, and even working professionally as a fisherman for a period of his life. A true outdoorsman, Ronald especially loved bass fishing throughout East Texas, finding peace and enjoyment on the water doing what he loved most. He was a man of deep faith and service, serving as a Grand Knight with the Knights of Columbus and faithfully volunteering as the cook for Men’s Bible Study gatherings, where he found great joy in fellowship and serving others through one of his favorite acts of kindness—sharing a good meal. Ronald is survived by his loving wife of 19 years, Nancy Smyer, née Pack; his children and their spouses, Gailynn Robinson and husband Kevin, Michelle Terrell and husband Tony, Nicole Griffin and husband Monte, and Matt Smyer and wife Tammy; his stepson, Christopher Williams and wife Kimberly; 15 grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; along with many extended family members and dear friends who will cherish his memory. He was preceded in death by his Grandaddy & Grandmama, T.A. Buck (Thaddius Archibald) & Alma Buck; his parents, Ethel Mae and Joseph Luther Smyer; his wife, Susie Smyer; his uncle, Dan Smyer and his wife Virginia; and his brother-in-law, Mike Williams. Honoring Ronald’s wishes, cremation arrangements have been entrusted to Oakley-Metcalf Funeral Home in Lufkin. A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held Saturday, July 11, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Believer's Bible Church, with Jeff Beltz officiating. Ronald will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, his dedication to family, his servant’s heart, his love for the outdoors, and the many lives he touched through both his work and his unwavering faith. His legacy of hard work, generosity, and love will live on in all who knew him.

Ronald Luther Smyer

July 1, 1942 - July 1, 2026