Donnie A Smith

Donnie A Smith, born May 26, 1951, passed away on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at Springhill Memorial Hospital. His passing is deeply felt by all who knew him, and we gather in remembrance of a life marked by hard work, good humor, and steadfast values.

Donnie dedicated more than four decades of his life as a brick mason with Ben Radcliff, demonstrating unmatched diligence and commitment to his craft until his well-earned retirement. His work was a testament to his integrity and pride in a job well done, values he instilled in all who had the privilege of working alongside him.

Outside of his professional pursuits, Donnie’s life was rich with passions and joys. He was an avid supporter of the Alabama Crimson Tide and the Atlanta Braves, always cheering his teams with enthusiasm. He found great pleasure in the simple joys of riding side by side, tending to his yard, and cherishing precious moments spent with his family—especially with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Their company brought him immense happiness and he was always in attendance to every event he could make. Donnie also enjoyed dining out, particularly at Wintzell’s, where many memories were made. He was at his best when gathered with friends like Tommy Kelly and Ronnie Odom, whose company he valued greatly.

Donnie was known to all as a light-hearted jokester, always wearing a warm smile and sharing laughter. He was a man of great integrity, known for his laid-back demeanor and for always seeing the good in people. He was founding member of Community Christian Fellowship Church and his sincerity and kind-heartedness left a lasting impact on all who crossed his path.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Sheila Smith; his children, Sean Smith (Kelly) and Lonnie Smith (Amy); his daughter-in-law, Kerri Smith; his grandchildren, Jessica Turner (Ira), Trey Boothe (Sam), Jordan Smith (Candis), John Earl Kelly, Dylan Byrd, Tatum Philips (Ben), Belle Smith, Blair Smith, Victoria Jordan (Daniel), and Olivia Smith; his great grandchildren, Ransom, Ryman, Grayson, Rory, Cole, Trinity, Kaide, Kris, Sadie, Bryson, Adley, and Ramsi; extended son, Michael Hare; sisters, Diane Byrd, Neci Kelly, and Annette Turner; brothers-in-law, Danny Cochran (Diane), Jr Cochran (Stephanie), Jim Casler, and Terry White; a multitude of nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

In remembering Donnie, we also honor those who have gone before him: his beloved son Lee Smith, his parents, D.L. and Clara Smith; his sister Joyce Dees (Bill); brother, Tommy Dees; in-laws, Douglas and Jacobina Cochran; brothers-in-law, Ronnie Cochran and Kent Cochran; and sisters-in-law, Yvonne Casler and Rita White each of whom played a significant role in his life and now reunite with him in peace.

Family, friends, and those whose lives were touched by Donnie are invited to gather in his memory during a visitation on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. until the 11:00 a.m. funeral service at Community Christian Fellowship Church with Bro. Barton Turner and Bro. Marc Hobbs offictating. Following the service, Donnie will be laid to rest at Deer Park Cemetery.

May the memory of Donnie A Smith continue to inspire all who knew him, and may his legacy endure in the hearts of those he loved and who loved him.

Pallbearers: Jimmy Casler, Thomas Dees, Michael Hare, Jeff Kelly, Daniel Jordan, Ira Turner, Chad White, Tony Cochran, Ben Philips, Jordan Smith, and Trey Boothe

Honarary Pallbearers: Danny Cochran, Jr. Cochran, Jim Casler, Terry White, Ronnie Odom, Tommy Kelly, Gaylon Dees, Bobby Smith, and Dwain Coaker