Ricky Wayne Smith

Ricky Wayne Smith, 53, of Paris TN, passed away on Saturday, September 26, 2026, in Murray, KY. He was born in Fort Campbell, KY on January 6, 1973. He was the beloved son of Wayne and Candy Smith.

For many years, Ricky devoted his life to protecting and serving others. He proudly served as a deputy with the Dover City Police Department and Stewart County Sheriff's Office, serving over 20 years within Stewart County community. His commitment to his community was evident in the way he carried out his duties, with compassion, courage, and a genuine desire to help those around him.

Ricky accepted the position as a School Resource Officer, most recently at the high school. In that role, he became a familiar and trusted presence among the students and staff. To many of the young people he encountered each day, Ricky was more than an officer. He was someone they could talk to, someone they could count on, and someone who made them feel safe.

Yet, as proud as Ricky was of his years of service, nothing compared to the pride he had in being a father. Ricky was a proud girl dad in every sense of the words. His daughters were his heart, and he treasured the time he spent with them. He was there for the little moments that become the biggest memories, the childhood days, the milestones, the graduations, and eventually watching his girls step into adulthood and begin lives of their own.

Through every season, Ricky remained by their side. He encouraged them, supported them, protected them, and loved them with a father's unwavering devotion. No matter how old his daughters became, they would always be his girls.

His granddaughter gave Ricky yet another reason to smile and another little life to love. He cherished the opportunity to watch her grow and to make new memories with her, just as he had done with his daughters.

Ricky is preceded in death by his father, Wayne Smith.

Ricky leaves behind his loving and devoted family, daughters, Mackenzie Beecham (Logan) and Madison Smith (Mitchell); granddaughter, Wyatt Beecham; mother, Candy Smith; brother, Jeff Smith (Tanya); nieces and nephews, Lexi Smith Atkins (Billy) and their son, William Atkins, Ryan Smith (Haylee); Hannah Dortch, Halle Dortch, Abby Schulz, Henry Whelpley, and Will Whelpley; aunts, Debbie, Janice, and Judy.

A visitation will be held at Stewart County High School on Friday, October 2, 2026 beginning at 1:00 pm with a Celebration of Life service at 2:00 pm.

His passing leaves a profound emptiness for those who loved him, but his life leaves behind something far more lasting: memories, lessons, love, and a legacy of service that will continue through the people whose lives he touched.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Anglin Funeral Home in Dover, Tennessee. Online condolences and tributes may be made at www.anglinfuneralhome.com