David Russell Smith

David Russell Smith, 78, of Ashland, Kentucky, husband of Linda Vercher Smith, passed away on Saturday morning, January 10, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on Monday, December 22, 1947, in Ashland, a son of the late Willie and Bertha Patterson Smith. David was a man of many talents and endeavors. He was a veteran of the United States Air Force, retired from the Ashland Kentucky Police Department, and also served as a deputy sheriff in Boyd County. In addition, he served as bailiff in the courts of the Honorable C. David Hagerman and the Honorable John F. Vincent. David was a deacon at Crum Chapel Church, and enjoyed camping and fishing with his family, and he was an avid Kentucky Wildcats fan. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Lisa M. Smith; a sister, Margaret Ryan; and two brothers, William E. Smith and James G. Smith. Left to cherish David's memory includes his wife of 57 years, Linda Verchr Smith of Ashland, Kentucky; his daughter, Hope Smith, of Ashland, Kentucky; a sister, Donna Collins Huff, of Ashland, Kentucky; a grandson, Davrick; and a granddaughter, Amiah. Funeral services for David will be held Wednesday at 11:00 AM at Miller Funeral Home with Brother Danny Laney officiating. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 9:00 AM until 11:00 AM. Burial with police honors will immediately follow the service at Golden Oaks Memorial Gardens in Ashland. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.mfhfuneralhome.com Arrangements are under the direction of Miller Funeral Home.