Cochran - Kenneth Ray NeSmith, age 87, who was a lifelong resident of Bleckley County, passed away Thursday, September 29, 2022. The sixth son of his parents, the late David D. NeSmith and Lottie Mae Coody NeSmith, he was predeceased by his brothers Elliott, George, ldus, Gerald, and L.Z NeSmith.

He is survived by his wife, Ruth Barlow NeSmith; children, Cay (Ricky) Dykes, Barry (June) NeSmith, Nina (Alan) Richards, and Robin (Johnny) Norris, all of Bleckley County, grandchildren, Libby (Will) DeLoach, Rad (Heather) Dykes. Daniel (Erin) NeSmith, Lora (Rob) Grimsley, Rebekah (Brett) Bowen, Olivia (Will) Coley and Thomas (Lacey) Richards; fifteen great-grandchildren and one great-great grandson.

Mr. NeSmith was an entrepreneurial, self-starting businessman, owning and operating several successful businesses including one of the earliest Datsun (Nissan) automobile dealerships in Georgia.

Mr. NeSmith will be laid to rest in Cedar Hill Cemetery, Cochran. Georgia. on Saturday, October 1, with a private family gathering.