On October 14, 1953 in Greensboro, Georgia God smiled and blessed Flenard Rowland and Mary Jim Smith with a son Ronnie Eugene Smith. On August 12, 2024, the Lord presented Ronnie Sr. with a gift of Mercy and called him home to be at his side.

Ronnie was educated in the Greene County School System. In 1972 he joined the Military and was stationed at Fort Ord, California. He served as a cook and because of his amazing culinary skills he became known as a “One of a Kind Chef”. His signature dish was Shepherd’s Pie. Being one of the original and one of the last true “Canaan Knights” Ronnie returned home to Canaan to enjoy life.

Ronnie favorite color was Blue. He was fan of the Atlanta Falcons and the Georgia Bulldogs. He was a Master Landscaper. He trained police dogs as a way to honor his father who served as a police officer in Greensboro. He was a man of respect who stood on principles. He was known for always telling jokes. His two favorite expressions were “How do you want it” and “Who loves you”.

Ronnie was an outstanding father, grandfather, great-grandfather and a true friend. He loved the Lord and stood steadfast that the Lord loved him back. Ronnie Sr. left this life to join his father, Flenard, Sr.; his mother Mary Jim and youngest brother Reginald “Redd” Rowland.

He leaves behind to celebrate his life and cherish his memory son of his best work: sons Ronnie Johnson and Ronnie Eugene Smith II; daughters Sheina Smith, Candie Smith and Shawndell Ratliff; sister June Rowland; brothers Flenard Rowland, Jr., (Margie), Tony Jack Rowland, Tyrone Rowland and Charles West; 11 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and close friends. Ronnie Sr. will be missed.

Service Saturday, August 24, 2024 from the Ebenezer A.M.E. Church Greensboro, GA at 11am with Rev. Ricky Cosby Eulogist.