Obituary of Donald Irving Smith

Donald I. Smith {DI} Age 85, formerly from Elmira Heights and recently of Zephyrhills, Florida, entered into eternal rest on Sunday, October 31, 2021 at the Gulfside Regional Hospice in Zephyrhills. He was preceded in death by his parents, Leo and Mildred Anna (Petit) Smith; brothers, William (Bill) and Wayne Smith; nephews, Tom Osborne and Richard Smith. He is survived by his loving wife, Mary E. (Freeman) Smith (his sweetiekins) along with her children: Debra Wilbur (Mike Couture), John Knapp (Kathryn), Brenda Brown (Scott Kay), Sheila VanDyke (Mike) and Marc Knapp (Dawn Hinze). Donald is also survived by his sister, Norma (Ron) Halstead; numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Don was a member of the Moose Lodge in Zephyrhills and the American Legion in Elmira Heights, NY. He served in the United States Army and retired as a Counselor at the Elmira Correctional Facility. Don and his entire family were dedicated and faithful members of the Oakwood Avenue United Methodist Church in Elmira Heights, NY. Don was a spiritual man and was a member of many choirs including many churches; Palm View Gardens and Tropical Acres Estates. Family and friends are invited to attend graveside services for Donald on Thursday, July 28, 2022 at 11:00 am at the Woodlawn National Cemetery 1825 Davis Street Elmira, NY where the Chemung County Veterans Honor Guard will accord Mr. Smith with Military Honors. A Celebration of Life Luncheon will be held immediately following committal services at the Elmira Heights American Legion Post # 154 236 Scottwood Ave. Elmira Heights, NY. Walter J. Kent Funeral Home is assisting the Smith family.