Johnny Ray Smith, age 60, of Manchester passed this life suddenly, Thursday, Oct. 31, 2024. He was born April 22, 1964 in Cookeville, Tenn. to the late Bobby Joe Smith and Laura Marie (McCarver) Smith. In addition to his father, Johnny is also preceded in death by his sisters, Carol Murphy and Darlene Atrium; and step-father, Bill Oswalt. Johnny was a graduate of Franklin County High School.  He enjoyed music and playing his guitar.  Johnny also enjoyed playing chess and family gatherings. He is survived by his wife of 29 years, Karen (Gilliam) Smith; children, Kevin Smith, Coty Smith, and Christopher Smith; grandchildren, Aiden Smith and Nazarrio Smith; mother, Laura Marie Smith Oswalt; siblings, Larry Smith (Leah), Sharon Warner (Bruce), Mindy Oliver (Andy), Les Oswalt (Lynn), and Renee Middleton (Wayne); step-mother, Betty Smith; mother-in-law, Evelyn Joyce Gilliam; brother-in-law, David Gilliam (Wendy); brother-in-law, Tim Gilliam (Amy); sister-in-law, Linda Gilliam; cousin, Jerry McCarver; a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins; many aunts and uncles; and his best friend from high school, Ron Lowry. The family received friends from 4-8 p.m. Monday, Nov. 4 and from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 5 at the former Coffee County Funeral Chapel.  A funeral service was held at 1 p.m. in the chapel with Brother Danny Anderson officiating.  Interment followed in the Garden of Prayer in Rose Hill Memorial Gardens.

Manchester Funeral Home is honored to be serving the family of Johnny Ray Smith.