Dennis Smith

1948 - 2025

Dennis G. "Nevada" Smith was born March 9, 1948, and went to be with his Lord Jesus Christ on October 7, 2025. Born to Claude and Virginia Smith in Danville, Ohio, the family later relocated to North Dakota. After high school, Dennis enlisted in the United States Navy where he found his calling of helping others and began his life of service.
Following his honorable discharge, Dennis became an investigator for Pinkerton's in Fort Worth and later served with the Grand Forks Police Department. His passion for the law led him to enroll in law school; after graduating, he joined the Tucson City Prosecutor's Office while volunteering as an Arizona Ranger. With a deep commitment to law enforcement, he moved the family to Nevada to join Parole & Probation. In 2009, Dennis retired as a Captain with the Nevada DPS Highway Patrol after 27 years of faithful service.
His hero from boyhood was Roy Rogers, which ignited his passion for the Old West. Dennis enjoyed riding his beloved horse, Tinker's Dam, American history, cowboy shoots, exploring ghost towns, Jeep jamborees and volunteering. He sat on the boards of many Southern Arizona historical preservation societies. As a board member of the American Legion, he was a fervent supporter of law enforcement and veterans in Cochise County.
A testament to his character, Dennis remained connected to a wonderful group of friends throughout his life, many of whom are like family. He will be dearly missed, especially by his own family. Dennis is survived by his children, son Cody Smith (Shanna Rae), daughter Emily Cadamagnani (Curtis Johnson). He held many esteemed titles, but his favorite was "Grandpa", lovingly given to him by Decker, Catherine, Corbin, and Jamison.
All are welcome to join the family for funeral services on November 7th, 2025, at 10 a.m. at Grace United Methodist Church in Douglas, Arizona, followed by a burial with military honors at Calvary Cemetery. A celebration of life, lunch, and fellowship to follow at the American Legion in Douglas.
The Family wishes express its deepest gratitude to the Sierra Vista Police Department, Cochise County Sheriff's Department, the medevac flight crew, and Banner-UMC Trauma Team in Tucson.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the sons of God- Matthew 5:9.
Happy Trails to you, Grandpa, until we meet again.
Condolences and tributes can be sent to: Emily.Cadamagnani@gmail.com. In lieu of flowers, please donate in honor of Dennis to your favorite charity in Cochise County.