The journey of life for Ruben Smith began on December 20, 1931, in Albany, Georgia. He was the beloved son of the late Whitley Smith and Willie Mae Williams Smith.

He was educated in the Dougherty County School System where he actively participated in various school events and functions.

Very early in life, William accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior.  As he continued his Christian walk, he united with the Union Missionary Baptist Church where he was a faithful and dedicated member for more than 50 years.  His faith and trust in God guided his life and allowed him to be an example for his family, friends, and all who came in contact with him.  He had an ear for music and sang with a quartet for many years; always giving God the glory and praise.

"Duggie," as he was lovingly called, was ambitious and gave his very best at everything he did.  He was employed as Head Custodian with the Dougherty County School System  and touched the hearts of minds of countless administrators, teachers, and students at Mock Road Elementary, Turner Elementary, and Albany High School.  He retired after rendering more than 40 years of loyal and dedicated service.

Ruben was united in holy matrimony to his soulmate, Christine.   They shared a love and a devotion to one another that was solid and unshakable. He was a devoted husband, father, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend who lived a life of kindness and compassion.  You could not find a better friend, listener, caretaker, or advisor.  He was a humble man and his kind spirit will always have a special place in our hearts.  In his leisure time, you would always find him playing checkers.

On July 7, 2020, Duggie/Ruben's earthly journey ended and he transitioned to eternal rest.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by six siblings; and two stepchildren, Donald Walker and Emma Caldwell.

Loving memories will forever be cherished by his devoted wife, Christine Smith; his children, Annette (Melvin) Eason of Decatur, GA, Evonne (Jeffrey) Daniels of Augusta, GA,  Rosalyn (Curtis) Leverett ,Travis Smith and Kimberly Smith all  of Albany, GA, and Regina (Claude) Deriso of Americus, GA; one brother, Willie James Smith of Plains, GA; stepchildren, Shirley Holmes of Fayetteville, NC, Brenda Zinamon of Baxley, GA, and Angelo Holmes of Jacksonville, FL; sisters-in-law, Gloria Jones and Betty Joe Walker of Albany, GA, and Linda Branch of New Jersey; grandchildren, Kalied Eason and Monique Eason of Decatur, GA, Carlos Daniels and Kaneash Daniels of Augusta, GA, and Nikki Smith, Dion Deriso, CJ Deriso, and Dematus Deriso all of Americus, GA; twelve great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends.