Pastor Randy Bryan Smith, Sr.

Pastor Randy Bryan Smith, Sr., age 78, of New Albany, Indiana, passed away on Monday, January 26, 2026. Born on December 8, 1947, in Meridian, Mississippi, he was the son of RC and Arietta (Vance) Smith. Randy was a proud graduate of Provine High School in Jackson, Mississippi, where he completed his studies in 1966. His educational journey continued as he attended Mississippi College, graduating in 1970, and later, Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, from which he graduated in 1975.

Randy devoted over 50 years to pastoral service, leading numerous congregations throughout the state of Indiana. At the time of his passing, he was the pastor of Howard Park Christian Church, where his dedication to his faith and community was evident and deeply appreciated.

Known for his sense of humor, Randy had a gift for sharing a "good" dad joke that would bring a laugh to those around him. He had a passion for jazz music and in his younger years had enjoyed playing golf. A longtime supporter of the Cincinnati Reds, he embraced his love for baseball with enthusiasm. Yet, more than anything else, Randy was a devoted husband, caring father, and affectionate Randpa, whose family was the center of his life.

In addition to his parents, Randy was preceded in death by his brother, Barry. He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Betty (Teeters) Smith; daughter, Melody Seals (Thomas); sons, Bryan Smith (Meg) and Vance Smith (Missy); and grandchildren, each of whom he was proud of, Clayton and Caleb Seals, Cooper, Keaton, Jack, and Grayson Smith, Morgan and Gabriel Heeke. Randy is also survived by his siblings, Joel Smith (Susan) and Bridget Hill.

A memorial service celebrating Randy’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at Howard Park Christian Church located at 450 W. Norwood Avenue, Clarksville, IN 47129.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to Howard Park Christian Church.