Loran Ralph NeSmith

Forsyth, Georgia: Loran Ralph NeSmith peacefully passed away surrounded by family on Monday, October 6, 2025, at the age of 86 years old. He was born January 10, 1939, in Irwinton, Georgia, to Ralph NeSmith and Mattie Lee Savage NeSmith.

A proud resident of Forsyth, Loran built a successful career as an entrepreneur and business owner despite not finishing high school, which was proof of his drive, creativity, and determination. He took pride in working hard and providing for his family, and he found great satisfaction in seeing his efforts make a difference. Standing nearly six and a half feet tall, Loran was a formidable presence: strong-willed, fiercely independent, and never one to shy away from speaking his mind. He loved the land, especially his time farming and riding his tractor, and he found joy in old westerns, southern meals, sweet tea, and every kind of dessert.

Loran truly cherished time spent with his family, especially the moments filled with laughter, good food, and shared memories. Some of his happiest days were at the beach with Vinita, their children, and grandchildren, where they made many memories on the sands of Fort Walton Beach, Florida and adventured by boat aboard the “Schoolboy Heart.” He rarely missed his grandchildren’s sporting events or academic ceremonies; he was among the loudest cheerleaders at their games and celebrated their academic achievements with pride. Known for spontaneous generosity, Loran also delighted in sharing sweet treats and Dickey’s peaches with friends, strangers, and the caregivers who supported him later in life.

Loran will be remembered in the vibrant beauty of a Georgia sunset, the loud crash of Gulf Coast waves, the nostalgic smell of boiled peanuts and peach cobbler, and the comforting warmth of a big hug—all reminders of a man whose strength and spirit left a lasting mark on those who knew him.

Preceded in death by: his beloved wife of 49 years, Vinita Cochran NeSmith; his parents Ralph NeSmith and Mattie Lee Savage NeSmith; his brother Dan NeSmith; and his niece Joy Campbell.

Survived by: his children Lori NeSmith and Tracie NeSmith Williams (Darryn); his grandchildren Chandler Williams Purser (Scott), Taylor Williams (Lauren), and Tucker Williams; his great-grandchild Rabun Vinita; his siblings Betty Kitchens, W. B. NeSmith (Imogene), and Nadine Covington (Larry); many nieces and nephews; and great nieces and nephews, among them Olivia Nguyen (Eddy).

Services: In accordance with Loran’s wishes, there will be no public funeral service. His immediate family will gather for a private ceremony.

Memorials: In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Loran’s honor to the Nature Trail project for the Forsyth campus of Momentum Christian Church (send to 305 Westridge Way, McDonough, GA 30253).

Monroe County Memorial Chapel 86 West Main Street, Forsyth, Georgia has charge of the arrangements.