Raymond J. Smith passed away on Saturday morning, January 3, 2026, after an extended illness. He was 77 years old. 

Ray was the loving husband of the late Marie (Beninati) Smith. He was the proud and caring father and father-in-law of Carolyn Smith Feyler and her husband Chuck Feyler of Brockton, and Jackie LaVerde and her husband Tony of Tewksbury. He was the youngest brother of the late Sidney Smith, Frederick Smith, Phyllis Fimian, Donald Smith, and Nancy Lowder. He leaves behind many nieces, nephews, friends, and grand dogs and grand cats. 

Ray was born in Cambridge, the son of Frederick and Anna (Hillery) Smith, and grew up in West Cambridge. An excellent student, he was a graduate of Cambridge High and Latin. He went on to earn his Bachelor’s degree in Education from Boston College, followed by his Master’s and Doctorate degrees in Classics from The Ohio State University. Ray loved learning—opening his mind to new ideas while also treasuring the past. 

Ray dedicated 35 years of his life to teaching Latin at Arlington High School. For 15 years prior to his retirement, Ray served as the lead teacher in the language department. Latin is not an easy language to teach, nor an easy one to learn, but Ray embraced the challenge with vigor and enthusiasm. He was loved and respected by his students and formed strong connections with them, and was known for a teaching style that was lighthearted and fun, while still maintaining a rigorous curriculum—his class was certainly not an easy “A.” He had a wonderful sense of humor and wanted his students fully engaged in the classroom. 

Each semester he hosted a much-anticipated “Toga Day,” which students looked forward to. Many students were inspired to pursue teaching themselves because of Ray’s mentorship and example. He remained in touch with former students and was always available for guidance and career advice. Ray was the teacher students turned to for college recommendations—the true “teacher’s teacher.” He loved teaching for the rewarding student connections, the joy of witnessing growth and “aha!” moments, fostering a lifelong love of learning, and making a positive impact on the world. He helped mold students into responsible adults, equipping them with the tools and knowledge to succeed in life. 

Outside the classroom, Ray was a passionate model railroader. What began as a childhood toy grew into a lifelong passion. His extensive model train collection and working train layout filled half of his basement, with a smaller set in his study. He was a member of several train collectors’ and enthusiasts’ clubs and organizations, and loved attending train shows throughout New England. While he cherished his collection, Ray always viewed it as a toy meant to be shared. His daughters, along with neighborhood children, nieces, and nephews, loved playing with the trains. Seeing their excitement brought him great joy and fondly reminded him of his own childhood. 

A devoted sports enthusiast, Ray was a season ticket holder for Ohio State football during his years earning his Master’s and Doctorate degrees. The Ohio State vs. Michigan football game was always a highlight of the college football season. He was also a loyal fan of the Red Sox, Patriots, and Boston College Eagles. 

Ray coached his daughters for a few years in the Burlington Baseball and Softball Association and played in the Burlington Recreation Department’s Fun Softball League as a player on the Steamrollers team for many years. While he loved competition, he cherished even more the camaraderie shared with friends and teammates. 

Above all, Ray was a devoted family man. He and his wife, Marie, shared a happy 52½ years of marriage until her passing in 2023. They met in a bowling league at Lanes 'N Games in Cambridge (then the Turnpike Bowladrome) in 1967. They married in 1970, and soon thereafter moved to Columbus, OH for 5 years while Ray earned his Master's and PhD from OSU. Together they raised their daughters in Burlington, where they were residents for 37 years. As a father, Ray was a strong role model—someone his daughters admired. He and Marie always wanted the best for their girls, providing a wonderful childhood filled with memorable experiences and unwavering support throughout their adult lives. Ray remained close to his siblings, nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. His annual Memorial Day cookout was a cherished tradition for more than 25 years. 

Ray lived a full and meaningful life, pursuing his passions, enriching the lives of those around him, and giving his family and students a strong foundation to grow into confident, capable adults. Yes, he was “wicked smart,” but always humble. He will be remembered for his quick wit, wonderful sense of humor, and, most of all, for his generosity of spirit—always helping others grow and feel valued and appreciated. 

Ray was truly a wonderful man who made a difference in the world. He will be lovingly remembered. 

Visiting hours will be held at the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home, 43 Winn Street, Burlington, on Thursday, January 8 from 4-7 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Peter’s Church, www.saintpetercambridge.org, 100 Concord Ave, Cambridge on Friday, January 9 at 10 a.m. Services will conclude with a burial at Mount Auburn Cemetery, Cambridge. 

Memorial donations in Ray’s memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 320 Nevada St., Suite 201, Newton, MA 02460 or the Boston College William J. Flynn Fund.