Ronnie Ray Smith

Ronnie Ray Smith, born on March 28, 1949, was an exceptional American sprinter who made his mark in athletics by winning a gold medal in the 4 × 100 m relay at the 1968 Summer Olympics. His journey in track and field began at Manual Arts High School in Los Angeles, where he showcased his talent by finishing third in the 220 yard dash at the CIF California State Meet in 1966.

Smith's collegiate career flourished at San Jose State College during the renowned 'Speed City' era, under the guidance of coach Lloyd (Bud) Winter. He graduated with a degree in sociology, but it was his athletic prowess that captured the spotlight. At the 1968 AAU Championships, he equaled the 100 m world record in the semifinal, clocking an impressive 9.9 seconds, a feat he shared with fellow competitors Jim Hines and Charles Greene. This remarkable evening, known as the 'Night of Speed,' marked a significant milestone in his career, as Smith was only nineteen years old, setting a World Junior Record that would stand for eight years.

During the Mexico Olympics, Smith played a crucial role as the third leg of the American 4 × 100 m relay team, contributing to their victory and establishing a new world record of 38.24 seconds. His achievements on the track solidified his legacy in the world of athletics.

After retiring from competitive sports, Smith dedicated his life to serving the community through his work at the Los Angeles Parks and Recreation Department. His contributions to athletics were recognized when he was inducted into the San Jose State Sports Hall of Fame.

Ronnie Ray Smith passed away on March 31, 2013, at the age of sixty-four in a hospice facility in Los Angeles, California. His funeral was uniquely celebrated on the TLC reality TV show Best Funeral Ever, where his casket 'ran' a 100 yard race, receiving a gold medal in a mock Olympic-style tribute, honoring his remarkable achievements in 1968.