Mr. Randy Lee “Rudy” Smith, 68, died Monday, July 14, 2025, at Baptist Memorial Hospital – North Mississippi. A celebration of life will be announced at a later date for family and friends.
Rudy was born on November 19, 1956, in Oxford, Mississippi, to the late Margie Watts Smith and James Cleveland “Shorty” Smith. He began his career as a truck driver with Smith Oil Company, devoting nearly 40 years to tearing up the roads and interstates in Canada, Mexico, Hawaii, New York, and everywhere in between. Rudy amassed and cherished innumerable friendships across North America from his life on the road, often sharing fond stories of their times together.
Known for his legendary Boogin’ Down on the Ridge fundraising parties, Rudy working tirelessly to support the Mississippi Area IV Special Olympics. He was recognized by numerous awards and newspaper articles for his philanthropy efforts, including being recognized as the Volunteer of the Millenium for the Area IV Special Olympics.
Rudy was a lifelong Ole Miss Rebel Fan, NASCAR superfan who’d graced the stands of Talladega and Poconos, and collector of car tags and stories from his younger years that’d make Vegas blush. He prided himself on being a classic rock aficionado and earned the status of semi-professional bingo caller at The Magnolia in Oxford. With an indelible one-of-a-kind personality, Rudy enjoyed keeping friends on their toes. He treasured the many RV camping trips he took with his family through the years, especially those spent at Wall Doxey, where Rudy competed in the annual Halloween decorating contests. He believed deeply in the power of community, helping with the Wall Doxey restoration project, was a member of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, and faithfully attended Pinelake Church of Oxford. A loving grandfather, Rudy was always present to cheer on his grandson, Swayze, during his Oxford Charger football games.
Rudy was fiercely loyal to his family and friends, generous when people were in need, never unkind to a stranger, and told the funniest (and often times inappropriate) jokes because he enjoyed making others laugh. He cherished his family, proudly accepting the role of father and grandfather. Rudy never stopped being a lover of life, people, and the outdoors – especially spending time at his beloved barn.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Donald Cleveland Smith.
Rudy is survived by his wife, Pat McClure-Smith of Oxford, Mississippi; daughter, Yvonne Moody and her husband, James, of Oxford, Mississippi; grandchildren, Swayze and Tanner; as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Expressions of sympathy or memorial contributions in Rudy’s memory may be made to Area IV Special Olympics, Attn: Madison Riker, 15 County Road 3092, Oxford, Mississippi 38655.
