Cpl. Raleigh Clinton Smith, U.S. Marine Corps, was killed in action on Dec. 23, 2004, in Fallujah, Iraq. He was born Dec. 7, 1983, in Libby. He was raised and graduated high school in Troy. He left for boot camp two days after he graduated.

He loved fishing, hunting, trapping, camping, prospecting, long-distance running and tennis.

He belonged to and was a charter member of the Troy Baptist Church.

He loved life, his family, and friends. In May of 2004 he became a very proud uncle. He loved school and learning and had great respect for his teachers. He was looking forward to going to college and becoming a history teacher when he got out of the service.

He will be missed, always loved and never forgotten. "One day we will be reunited with him in heaven."

He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Frank Nelson.

Survivor's include his parents, Raymond and Gail Smith, of Troy; his brother, Ramsey; sister-in-law, Traci, and nephew, Tyler James; grandparents, Evelyn Nelson of Troy; Edel Elmont of Troy, and Ray Smith Sr., of Payette, Idaho; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and close friends.

"Raleigh you will always be our hero! We love you."

Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Monday, Jan. 3, at the Nelson & Vial Funeral Home in Libby.

Services will be at 2:30 p.m. Tuesday at Troy High School.