David Matthew "Dave" Smith

On Saturday, February 14, 2026, David M. Smith, 57, of Gilbertsville, passed away unexpectedly while surrounded by his loving family. Although he had endured many years of physical suffering, his passing was a shock to those who loved him. His family finds comfort in knowing he is now free from pain and at peace with our Lord.

David is survived by his wife of 29 years, Erika (Heebner) Smith; his two daughters, Brianna (fiancé Justin Batista) and Emily, all of Gilbertsville; and his three cherished grandchildren, Mason, MyaLynn, and Laylani. He is also survived by his brother, Stephen Smith of Pottstown. David was predeceased by his mother, MaryAnn (Robinson) Smith, and his grandmother, Anna Dorn.

A 1987 graduate of Souderton Area High School, David enlisted in the United States Navy January 1988. He completed boot camp at Naval Base Great Lakes in Michigan before transferring to Virginia Beach to train as a fire controlman aboard Navy vessels. David was deeply proud of his service to his country. Due to injuries sustained during his service, he received an honorable discharge and lived for decades with a service-connected disability that brought chronic pain and physical limitations.

Following his discharge, David pursued higher education through the GI Bill, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Finance from Ursinus College in 1999. Graduating in the top 5% of his class, he received the distinction of Summa Cum Laude. He later worked as a Veterans Service Representative with the Department of Veterans Affairs in Philadelphia, a role he chose out of a deep passion for assisting fellow veterans.

David had a remarkable curiosity and an unquenchable thirst for knowledge. While many watch television for entertainment, Dave watched to learn. He eagerly shared what he discovered-whether or not his audience was prepared for the lesson. His love of learning spanned history, faith, science, and current events. In the past year, he gifted family and friends their own copies of the Constitution of the United States, reflecting both his convictions and his desire to inspire others.

Creative and humorous, Dave loved rewriting the lyrics to well-known songs, often to the amusement (and sometimes confusion) of those around him. He also mastered the art of forming intricate bismuth crystals, some of which were sold at a local rock shop. He enjoyed fishing, hiking at Saint Peter's Village and Green Lane Park, attending music festivals and farmers markets with close friends he considered family, and countless family outings to Dorney Park, the zoo, and historical museums.

In recent years, David treasured the time spent deepening his faith alongside his daughter Brianna and soon-to-be son-in-law Justin through Bible study. He was proud to witness their spiritual growth and often spoke of the joy it brought him.

Dave loved a spirited debate and had once dreamed of becoming a lawyer. His ability to retain and recall vast amounts of information was impressive, and he was never one to back down from a lively discussion. He spent many hours playing chess-especially enjoying matches with his daughter Emily and grandson Mason.

Known for his generosity, David was always willing to help others, whether financially or through thoughtful gifts. Friends often gathered at his home to relax, share conversation, and hear about his latest discoveries. He found peace sitting on his deck listening to music, and his granddaughters Mya and Lani cherished their "jam sessions" with Poppa.

David's life was marked by resilience, devotion to family, steadfast faith, and a desire to both learn and teach. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Family and friends are invited to a visitation on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, beginning at 11:00 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 12:00 p.m. at Catagnus Funeral Home, East Philadelphia Avenue, Gilbertsville, PA 19525.

Please keep David's family in your thoughts and prayers as they navigate through the changes and challenges his absence will present.

In lieu of flowers, David's family is requesting that donations be made in his honor to the Wounded Warrior Project, an organization that David supported and valued dearly.

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