David Smith 1955-2023

David "Smitty" J. Smith, 68, of Mesa, Arizona, sadly passed away on October 31, 2023, after a lengthy illness. Born in Danville, Illinois, the values instilled in him by his loving family shaped the way he lived his life. Smitty made lasting friendships wherever he went and traveled extensively throughout the Southwest, working and enjoying all that life had to offer. Eventually, he decided to settle in Arizona, where he met and married his beloved wife Lorrie in March 1983. Smitty had a great sense of family, humor, wit, and character and was well loved by many. He will be deeply missed.

Smitty is survived by his wife, Lorrie Smith (Hawaiian), stepdaughter Kathryn Metz, and three grandchildren, Johnathon "JJ" Solano, Evan (Samantha), and Austin Woodard. He was preceded in death by his parents, John "Jack" R. Smith and Margery (Bahls) R. Smith, as well as his sisters, Karen J. Wright (10/24/2023) and Kathy Jo Smith.

Smitty's educational journey began at Bismarck-Henning High School, where he actively participated in football, wrestling, and various clubs. He excelled academically and was a member of the Honor Society, graduating as the Salutatorian in 1973. He then pursued higher education at Eastern Illinois University in Charleston, Illinois, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Elementary Education, with an emphasis on Mathematics and Physical Education. During his time at Eastern Illinois University, Smitty was a member of the Phi Sigma Epsilon fraternity.

Throughout his life, Smitty explored various career paths. After realizing that teaching 6th grade wasn't his calling, he ventured into pharmaceutical sales. He also became a small business owner and served as the president of Oggy Doggy & Doggy Daddy, Inc. and Debonair Lawn Care. Additionally, he worked for Phoenix Newspapers, AZ Boys Community, and various paving and grading companies in the construction industry. Smitty's self-taught computer skills led him to specialize in estimating for land development construction, working for several home builders. His expertise eventually earned him the position of Project Manager, a role he held until his retirement from Robson Communities in 2018.

In his leisure time, Smitty cherished his grandchildren and enjoyed spending quality time with them. He had a passion for camping he got from working as a lumberjack on the Mogollon Rim in northern Arizona. Smitty also loved attending gatherings with family and friends in Arizona, Illinois and to see Hawaii Ohana. His travels included Hawaiian beach life under the cabana drinks in hand. Sailing to Catalina Island, fun in Las Vegas, fishing trips in Alaska, and cruising Mexico.

A Celebration of Life will be held on a future date to be announced, where friends and family will come together to honor and remember Smitty.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the National Parkinson Foundation in memory of Smitty.

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