Obituary of Toney Randall Smith

Toney Randall Smith, lovingly known as Randy, passed away on April 1, 2025, at the age of 73. Randy lived a full life rooted in service, family, friendship, and an unwavering love for animals and community. Randy wore many hats throughout his life - he served proudly in the United States Marine Corps, tried not to get bucked off horses in the rodeo, worked with his dad in Louisiana, enjoyed selling guns at Western Auto, and eventually found a home with Lea County Environmental, where his love for people and animals came together in a way that brought him true joy. He never met an animal that didn't love him, and that bond was passed on to his children, who have never known a life without a beloved pet by their sides. He was a man of many skills - welder, fixer, cook, listener, helper - and his greatest pride was in his family and the life he built with his own hands. He was preceded in death by his parents and step-parents: Carl & Connyee Smith and Phoncille & B.D. Elkins. He is survived by his daughter: Holly Smith; his son: Shane Smith and Shane's wife, Jennifer; his grandchildren: Zach, Hannah, and Samuel; and his great-grandchildren: Alex and Emilia. Randy is also survived by his siblings: Shannon Smith, Mickey Smith, Gay Smith, Toya Bolton, Sharee Bolton, Carla Haggerton, and Shaun Bolton-Smith as well as many nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends. His children, both human and furry, were the center of his world. Randy had a lifelong love for hunting, fishing, rodeo, and Wildcat football. A Wildcat football fan through and through, faithfully attending games long after his kids had graduated, even pulling the bell trailer to away games, cheering on his team with pride. At home, Randy could always be found outside doing yard work, tinkering in his shop, or in the kitchen dreaming up delicious meals like his "do your own thing" meals or his famous ribs. His creativity extended beyond the kitchen - he was known for finding clever solutions to any problem and was always ready to lend a helping hand. Whether you needed a tool, a ride, a formidable dominoes opponent or just someone to sit and talk with, Randy was there. Randy will be remembered for his big heart, quick wit, endless love, and quiet strength - the kind that shows up when no one's watching. He was, in every sense, the best kind of dad, friend, and neighbor. Randy's memorial service will be held at Kirby Ratliff Funeral Home in Lovington NM on April 12th at 10am. There will be a lunch to follow at the VFW hall on west Alto Drive in Hobbs NM, where stories, laughter, and good food will be shared in his honor - just the way he would have wanted. Condolences may be sent to www.kirbysmithrogers.com