Richard "RP" Pratt Smith 95, of Palestine WV, passed away Friday March 21, 2025, at WVU Medical Center Parkersburg WV. A son of the late Pratt and Mae Smith, he was born at Gilmer Station, Gilmer County WV, and was a Graduate of Webster Springs High School and The West Virginia State Police Academy.

As a member of the State Police, he proudly served the people of West Virginia, retiring after 26 years as a First Sergeant in Elkins WV. He was also involved with the motorcycle unit of the WV State Police. After retirement he went on to work at AGA Burdox of Washington Bottom, Department of Highways Weight Division, and finally at The US Government Public Debt in Security.

He enjoyed fishing, hunting, race cars, sports, and in previous years he was a licensed airplane pilot. He was also a lifetime member of AF & AM Mariah #38 Masonic Lodge in Spencer WV, and the Bass Club.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Elsie Dawkins Smith; two sisters Justine Leggett and Marion McCoy and a brother Argil Smith.

Richard is survived by his children Connie Riggs and her husband Bill of Parrish, Florida. John Smith of Parkersburg and stepson Jay Dawkins and his fiancé Kathy Bonecutter. Grandchildren; Jeanna Stephenson her husband Joseph, Carl Riggs, Cierra Gregory her husband Chay, Skylar Dawkins, Pratt Dawkins, and his Fur Friend "Kat". His first wife was Jean Hartmann Lint; they were married from 1953 to1972.

Services will be 1:00 PM, Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at Matheny Whited Funeral Home of Elizabeth with the Pastor David Somerville officiating. Visitation will be Tuesday, March 25, 2025, from 3:00 to 6:00 PM and Wednesday, from 9:00 am until time of the service.

Interment at Shiloh Cemetery, Palestine WV.