Raymond B. Smith, III (48), of Beachwood, New Jersey, passed away suddenly on Monday, August 18, 2025. Born and raised in Neptune, NJ, Ray was a proud graduate of Neptune High School, where he began to cultivate the creativity and passion that would define his life.

For 18 years, Ray worked as an Auto Body Technician at Jackson Auto Body, where his meticulous attention to detail and dedication to his craft earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues. Beyond his professional life, Ray was known for his love of tinkering and working on various projects, a creative trait he inherited from his beloved mother.

Ray was a devoted family man, cherished by his wife of 18 years, Annette Smith. Together, they created a warm and loving home for their children, Lillyanne and Jacob. As a fantastic dad, Ray was actively involved in his children's lives, serving as a cheer dad to his daughter and coach for his son’s Beachwood Pine Beach Little League team. He was their biggest supporter, always encouraging them to pursue their passions and dreams. Ray found immense joy in building Legos with his children, creating lasting memories that they will carry with them forever.

An avid sports fan, Ray was a die-hard fan of the Cleveland Browns and the New York Mets. His passion for sports was matched only by his love for golf and his family and friends, who will remember him for his infectious laughter and unwavering support.

Ray is survived by his devoted wife, Annette; his daughter, Lillyanne; his son, Jacob; his mother, Patricia Templeton and her husband, William; his father, Raymond B. Smith, Jr. and his wife, Robin; his sister, Sherry Ward and her husband, David; and his cherished nieces and nephews: Abigail, Emma, Caitlyn, Benjamin, Bethany, Aaron, Lexus, and Lulu. He is also survived by many extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

Raymond B. Smith, III, leaves behind a legacy of love, creativity, and unwavering support for his family. His spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

The family invites all who knew Ray to join in celebrating his remarkable life on Saturday, September 6, 2025, from 1 - 4 pm with a time of remembrance celebrated at 3:00 pm at Kedz Funeral Home, 1123 Hooper Avenue, Toms River followed by a light repast at the home of his mother and stepfather, Patricia and William Templeton.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Ray's memory to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital at www.stjude.org.