David Gordon Smith

David Gordon Smith, age 80, passed away peacefully on December 29, 2024 after a courageous battle with multiple myeloma. He was born on March 11, 1944, in Orange, Texas, to loving parents, Wilmer and Thelma Weems Smith.

David graduated from Lamar University in 1966 with a degree in accounting, setting the foundation for a lifetime dedicated to education, service, and family. A proud veteran, David served in the 82nd Airborne Infantry Division of the U.S. Army from 1967 to 1969. During the Vietnam War, he earned the Bronze Star Medal, a testament to his acts of heroism, meritorious service, and outstanding achievement.

David believed that knowledge paved the way to success. He shared his expertise as a Professor of Accounting at Houston Baptist University and the University of Houston. Following his teaching career, David worked for several years in the Treasury Department at Texas Children's Hospital. After retirement, he continued to serve as he volunteered at the hospital's information desk, helping others with empathy and compassion.

Though he didn't have biological children, David embraced the adult children from two marriages with open arms, becoming a trusted and beloved father figure. He was married to Nancy Whelply Smith, who passed away in 1993, and loved her children as his own: Mark (Valerie) Baker, Steve (Janet) Baker, and Jennifer (Ken) Gibson.

Later in life, David found love again with Glenda Rains Smith. Their marriage was marked by unwavering devotion and partnership. Glenda's children, Regina (Bryan) Lee and Bethany (Kelly) Walker, welcomed David, and together they created a close and loving family. David and Glenda honeymooned at Disney World, a fitting beginning to a life filled with happiness and adventure. Their wedding was a family affair, with grandchildren and great-grandchildren joyfully participating. Marrying Glenda also meant gaining an extended family of her six siblings and their families. David welcomed this new chapter wholeheartedly, always planning trips to visit them, further expanding the circle of love and connection in his life.

An avid reader and passionate traveler, David was always eager to explore new places and ideas. His favorite pastime was spending time on his porch swing with a good book. But above all, he loved being with family, whether it be a large family reunion in Kentucky or a simple family gathering at home. He delighted in frequent family game nights, creating many cherished memories.

David was a cherished brother to three siblings: Wilma Faye Aldridge, Obie Kymbol ("OK") Smith, and Linda Mullin; a proud grandfather to Tristan, Erika, Devon, Lauren, Gregg, Derek, Katelynn, Zachary, Matthew, Nina, and Chloe; and a loving great-grandfather to Rachel, Cody, Alanis, Katie, Joshua, and Olivia.

David will be honored at a graveside service on January 22, 2025, at 11:15 am at Houston National Cemetery, located at 10410 Veterans Memorial Drive, Houston, Texas, 77038. A celebration of his life will also be held at South Main Baptist Church in the Westmoreland Chapel on January 23, 2025, at 11:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to South Main Baptist Church for the Power and Light Class.