Biography

Randy E. Smith

14th District, Preston County
Republican
Senate President - Lieutenant Governor

Senator Randy E. Smith was unanimously elected as President of the West Virginia Senate in January 2025 and will preside over the Upper Chamber during the 87th Legislature. President Smith commenced his Senate service following his election in the 2016 General Election, representing the constituents of the 14th Senatorial District. Prior to his election to the Senate, he served in the West Virginia House of Delegates from 2012 to 2016.

Smith is an alumnus of East Preston High School, class of 1978, situated in the quaint town of Terra Alta, WV. During his time at school, he served as the FFA chapter president for two consecutive years. Following graduation, he married his high school sweetheart, Patty, with whom he has shared a lasting marriage of 46 years. Motivated by his aspiration to start a family and ensure their well-being, Smith embarked on a career in the underground coal industry. Beginning as a laborer, he dedicated almost 44 years to the Mettiki Coal Company, retiring as a safety director. Throughout their marriage, he and his wife have ventured into ownership of various small businesses. Smith's interests include hunting, fly fishing, and sharing stories with those he encounters.

Active in the Brookside Church community, Senator Smith exemplifies his faith in Christ through dedicated service both within the congregation and to his local community. A prominent figure in youth sporting leagues, he was honored with the distinction of the Honorary State Farmer degree by the West Virginia State chapter of the FFA.

President Smith is a proud father to two children, Amy and her husband Tim Wotring, Scott and his wife Beth, as well as a grandfather to seven grandchildren and a great-grandfather to four.