Daniel J. Smith

Daniel Joseph Smith, 65, of West Deptford Township passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 20, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Born in Atlantic City to the late James and Marylou (née Kane) Smith, Dan was raised in Ventnor and graduated from Holy Spirit High School, Class of 1978. He went on to earn his bachelor's degree from Drexel University, Class of 1982, A Bachelor of Science Degree, Class of 1994, and his master's degree from Marygrove University in 2004. For many years, Dan shared his gift for teaching and craftsmanship as a beloved woodshop instructor at Atlantic City High School, retiring in 2020 after a rewarding career shaping young lives with patience and skill. He also owned and operated Daniel J. Smith Funeral Services, Inc., where his gentle demeanor and quiet competence brought comfort to countless families throughout Atlantic County and beyond.
Dan lived for the simple joys: a day at the beach with the salt air in his lungs, Sailing, Sunday NFL football on the TV, and tackling yet another project around the house. Anyone who knew Dan felt his kindness, his rock-steady presence, and the deep faith that guided him. He was, above all, a devoted family man and a friend to everyone he met.
On July 11, 2010, Dan married the love of his life, Karen "Kari" (née Nelson). Together they built a beautiful life rooted in unwavering love and support; they truly were each other's rock.
Dan will be forever missed by his wife, Kari; his sons, Richard Beischer (Lauren) and Matthew Beischer (Jackie); his adored grandchildren, Jack, Charlie, Dahlia, Valerie, and Fiona. Dan's Brothers', James (Tlee), Michael (Helen), Andrew, Stephen, and Brian (Jean); his sisters, Mary Lou Henderson and Elizabeth "Beau" Bernicker (Chris); His sisters-in-law Jane Smith, Kathleen Thaden (Rodger), and Kristen Puccinelli (Michael); and a large and loving circle of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Predeceased by his brother, Patrick Smith.
Dan deeply loved his three faithful Yorkies, Harry, Haley, and Harley, who rarely left his side.
The family is deeply grateful for the outpouring of love, prayers, and support they have received during this difficult time.
Family and friends are invited to visit at the Church of the Incarnation, 240 Main Street, Mantua, NJ 08051:
Tuesday, November 25, 2025, 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Wednesday, November 26, 2025, 9:30 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday. Interment will be private.
Following the Mass, family and friends are invited to join us for a repass/celebration of Dan's life at RiverWinds (12:30pm) at 1075 RiverWinds Dr, West Deptford, NJ 08086.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Dan's memory may be made to the Tatton Brown Rahman Syndrome (TBRS) is a complex and rare genetic disorder affecting Dan's grandson and just over 300 children around the world. Donations can be made online at https://givebutter.com/togetherfortbrs, or send your gift directly to support TBRS families and research. Checks made payable to TBRS Community, 122 Hunns Lake Rd, Stanfordville, NY 12581.
Dan's quiet strength, warm smile, and generous heart will live on in everyone who was fortunate enough to know him.