Dick Smith

Richard “Dick” Wayne Smith, age 87, of Wray, Colorado, passed away on March 15, 2026, in his hometown. He was born on January 7, 1939, in Beecher Island, Colorado, to Emil “Toolie” Smith and Frances (Funk) Smith.

Dick was raised on the family farm and ranch northeast of Beecher Island alongside his older brother, Howard. From an early age, he developed the strong work ethic that would define his life—milking cows, fixing fences, stacking hay bales, and even driving tractors as young as eight years old. Early mornings began with chores before riding their horses to the Beecher Island schoolhouse. Dick often shared stories of his childhood farm life, working long days that built strength and character.

He attended Beecher Island School until it closed during his seventh-grade year, at which point he transferred to Wray, where he graduated in 1957. During high school, Dick wrestled all four years, competing at 98 pounds his senior year. He formed lifelong friendships and, by his own admission, found his share of mischief along the way.

In 1961, Dick enlisted in the United States Army and proudly served for two years at Fort Bragg. Known for his strong work ethic and sharp shooting, he stood out among his peers and later served as a clerk typist before receiving an honorable discharge.

After returning to Wray, Dick met Teena Schneider of Kit Carson, Colorado, who was visiting her niece. A local friend set them up on a blind date. He would jokingly remind this friend for years that it was “all her fault,” always followed by a laugh. Dick and Teena were married in 1964 and built a life centered on family, raising three children: Brian, Alicia, and Katrina.

Dick worked at the 1256 Feedlot before purchasing and operating Wray Redi-Mix for many years. His work helped shape the community, as his company poured many foundations, driveways, and sidewalks throughout Wray. After selling the business, Dick joined Teena, delivering mail for the U.S. Postal Service north of Wray for several years, becoming a familiar and dependable presence until his retirement.

Summers often found Dick at the ballfields, where he played and coached fast-pitch softball, maintained the fields, and helped run the concession stand. He also managed the Wray Redi-Mix fastpitch softball team, traveling throughout Colorado and Kansas for tournaments and creating lasting memories for many.

Dick had a deep love for the outdoors. He enjoyed elk hunting, fishing, camping, snowmobiling, and exploring the mountains—what he fondly referred to as “scouting.” He also enjoyed simpler pleasures: a good card game at the Vet’s Club, early morning coffee with his cronies, the Denver Broncos, “shooting the breeze” with friends, and watching old westerns.

He was a proud member of the “Peons,” a group of friends who gathered regularly for cards, steaks, and camaraderie, creating many stories and laughs over the years. In his younger days, he often reminisced about hunting rabbits, and throughout his life, he stayed busy tending Teena’s garden and maintaining their expansive yard.

Dick will be especially remembered for his quick wit, clever one-liners, and the nicknames he had for just about everyone he knew. He had a gift for humor and connection that left a lasting impression on all who crossed his path.

Dick is preceded in death by his wife, Teena Smith, his parents, Emil “Toolie” and Frances Smith; his brother, Howard Smith; his mother-in-law, Helen Schneider; and sisters-in-law, Francis Falconburg and Marilyn (Gibbs) Bullock.

He is survived by his son, Brian (Brenda) Smith; daughters Alicia (Sam) Carter and Katrina (Shawn) Keiser; grandchildren Chelsea Smith, Sydney (Noah) Frederick, Logan Carter, Rylie Carter, Quinn Keiser, and McKenna Keiser; sisters-in-law Charlotte Smith, Connie Bellini, and Lucy Barnett; as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends.

A memorial service will be held on April 6, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Jones Family Funeral Home in Wray, followed by a celebration of life at the Wray Vets Club. Please join the family in sharing the many wonderful and entertaining stories that made Dick so special. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Dick’s memory to Field of Dreams (P.O Box 277 Wray, CO 80758) or Wray VFW Post 4671 (119 E. 3rd Wray, CO 80758).