Donald E. Smith

Born in Grundy, Louisa County in SW Virginia, Don came to Alexandria from Richmond in 1975 bringing his specialist's knowledge of construction specifications to many Metro DC area architecture firms. Don was active with the Alexandria Jaycees, serving as president in 1977-1978. He was elected a Key Man in 1979. He played the snare drum for the Alexandria Pipe and Drum Band. He served as team representative for the Chinquapin "Wahoos" swim team in the 1990's, and was active with Potomac Valley Swimming, helping to draft guidelines for legal starts for deaf swimmers which were incorporated into the Official Rule Book of USA Swimming. After Hurricane Isabel hit Alexandria in 2003, he became an original member of Alexandria's Certified Emergency Response Team (CERT). An expert in the technical aspects of the building trades, he retired as the Director of Technical Services for the Assoc. of the Wall and Ceiling Industry in 2013. Don had a "lending library "of tools and was well known in his neighborhood for helping/teaching younger homeowners how to do home repairs. He was an active volunteer supporting the annual Antiques in Alexandria show helping to raise funds for TWIG, The Athenaeum, and The Alexandria Association. A passionate "HAM", he was active in the world of Amateur Radio: call sign KI4FON. Don is survived by his wife of 46 years, Newbold "Newbie" Richardson, and two daughters: Anne "Woodie" Smith of Alexandria, Ruth Yeeling Anderson of Atlanta GA, and five grandchildren. His son, Scott, predeceased him in 2018. A memorial service will be held on May 17 at 12pm at Grace Episcopal Church, Alexandria.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to:

The Foundation of the Wall and Ceiling Industry https://fundraise.givesmart.com/form/rGunDA?vid=193uw3