Daniel Austin Smith

Celebrating the Life of Daniel Smith December 28, 1979 – December 26, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Daniel Smith, who departed this life in the early morning hours of December 26, 2025.

Born on December 28, 1979, in Paducah, Kentucky, Daniel was the cherished son of David and Linda. Above all else, Daniel was a devoted husband, father, and family man. Family was the center of his world, and nothing brought him greater joy than time spent with his children and loved ones.

Daniel shared 21 loving years of marriage with his wife, Chelsea, and was a deeply involved and proud father to his son, Kye (16), and daughter, Rae (12). Anything involving his kids filled him with happiness, and his love for them was evident in both the big moments and the everyday ones. He approached fatherhood with intention and presence, creating a home grounded in love, laughter, and care.

Daniel is survived by his wife, Chelsea; his children, Kye and Rae; his parents, David and Linda; his brother, Derek (Lindsey); his mother-in-law, Bianca (Gary); his father-in-law, Walt; in-laws Tanise, Wally (Elyse), Jesse (Bridgette), and Carter; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends. He was also a proud and loving dog dad to Becky and Louie, who were truly part of his family.

Daniel graduated from Mount Mercy College with a double major in biology and education, reflecting both his intellectual curiosity and his desire to teach and support others. He played soccer throughout his childhood and collegiate years, and following college, he spent four years as a high school science teacher. During that time, he also coached high school soccer, enjoying the opportunity to mentor students and athletes alike while sharing lessons in teamwork, discipline, and confidence.

Professionally, Daniel later dedicated many years to Allegis Group, where he excelled as an Account Recruiting Manager. He was respected for his integrity, strong work ethic, and genuine desire to help others succeed. Daniel had a natural ability to "figure out the how" in any situation. He loved researching, problem-solving, and helping people navigate challenges both in his career and in life. Whether at work or at home, he found purpose in helping people move forward, a value he lived out most fully as a father.

Daniel found joy in live music and music festivals, camping, movies, and time spent outdoors. One of his favorite bands was Jared & The Mill, and his favorite movie was Fight Club. At home, he loved cooking for his family, especially smoking and grilling meat, finding deep satisfaction in caring for those he loved through food.

Daniel showed his love through action, by helping others find solutions, by showing up, and by taking care of those around him in thoughtful and practical ways. He will be remembered for his kindness, intelligence, humor, and unwavering willingness to help others. His legacy lives on through the family he adored, the children he guided, and the many lives he touched.

A Celebration of Life honoring Daniel will be scheduled soon. Details will be shared with family and friends once arrangements are finalized.

In the days and weeks since Daniel's passing, the family has been surrounded by an extraordinary outpouring of love. Through meal trains, financial support, help around the house, visits, messages, and countless thoughtful gestures, they have felt held and cared for in ways they could never fully express. Please know how deeply grateful they are for every act of kindness shown during this time.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Daniel's memory to the Arizona Humane Society. Arizona Humane Society

Daniel Smith will be deeply missed and forever loved. His presence was a gift, and his memory lives on in the hearts of all who knew him.