Vernon Ray Smith, 71, of Richmond, passed away Monday, January 13, 2025, at CenterPoint Medical Center in Independence.

Vernon was born on January 3, 1954, in Guymon, OK, the son of Lawrence Gene and Alice Maxine (Boling) Smith.  He was united in marriage to Debbie A. Renfro of Texas on February 24, 2009; she survives of the home.

Additional survivors include: four daughters: Bryanna (Seth) Doumit of Washington, Shyanne Smith of Oregon, Brooklynn Smith of Washington, and Sueanna Hinde of Texas; two sons, Steve (Candace) Cowick of Blue Springs and Micah LeBouef of Richmond; 11 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and brother, Howard (Teri) Smith of Kansas.

In addition to his parents, Vernon was preceded in death by his brother, Larry Smith.

Vernon was raised and educated in Hutchison, Kansas, graduating from high school before attending Mesa College in Arizona, where he earned an Associate of Arts degree in General Contracting. Throughout his career, he worked his way up in the construction industry to become a superintendent for multi-family housing projects, building units across the country. After a long and successful career, he retired in 2018.

In 2021, Vernon moved to Richmond to be closer to his family. He was an avid Harley rider, an accomplished pool player who participated in leagues and tournaments, and a passionate football fan. Vernon was also an enthusiastic reader, spending much of his time immersed in books.  He also had a love for playing the guitar.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the American Cancer Society.  They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home, 507 East Main Street-P.O. Box 190, Richmond, MO 64085.

Graveside services will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Friday, January 17, 2025, at Odessa Cemetery.  Visitation will be held from 11:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. on Friday, January 17, 2025, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond.  Please remember to share your memories of Vernon by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.