Murray Wilton Smith, age 87, died peacefully at his home in Naples, Florida, on Sunday, September 14, 2025. He was born on March 4, 1938, to Agnes Murray Smith and Jesse Wilton Smith. He was preceded in death by his sister, Judy Smith and brother, Ronald Smith.

Murray graduated from Vanderbilt University School of Medicine in 1963 before serving as a medical officer in the U.S. Air Force from 1965 to 1967. He built a distinguished career in internal medicine in Nashville, Tennessee. In 1987, Murray began concentrating on addiction treatment. He was among the first board certified addictionologists in the country, serving as a medical director at Nashville’s Baptist Hospital and New Life Lodge and The Ranch in Dickson, Tennessee, as well as supporting Cumberland Heights in various ways throughout his career. For 25 years, he served as an expert witness in legal cases, including in death penalty sentencing hearings. Dr. Smith’s dedication to medicine, addiction recovery, and service left a lasting impact on countless patients, families, and colleagues.

He was known for his sharp wit, playful humor, and extraordinary intelligence. Murray had a deep passion for fishing, rising early in the mornings to visit his beloved Caney Fork River, and often referred to the natural world as his “cathedral” and a place of rest.

He is survived by his sons, Hugh Smith and Clifton Smith; his daughter, Hallie Odom; granddaughters Grace and Macy Smith; and grandson Weston Smith.

Murray did not want a traditional service, but he hoped he would be remembered in personal ways. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions for Dr. Murray Smith can be made to Cumberland Heights Treatment Center in Nashville, TN. 

Send to someone

Share this obituary with others

https://everloved.com/life-of/murray-wilton-smith/obituary/

Copy