David Clark Smith

Obituary of David Clark Smith

David C. Smith, PhD

Born on February 8,1937, in Owensboro, Kentucky. David was the beloved son of Mary Margaret Flaherty and Robert Emmit Smith, known as Bubby. He was reunited in eternal rest with his parents and his cherished brother, Robert (Bobby) Leon Smith, who predeceased him in 1945. David is survived by his sister Mary Flaherty Eury.

David's life was a rich tapestry of love, dedication, and intellectual pursuit. His wife of 61 years, Kathleen Kohne Smith, joined him in eternal peace on March 7, 2026. Together, they were the heart and soul of their family, raising three wonderful daughters: Christine Kohne Papa, Jennifer Sheley Rosebeck, and Paula Flaherty Theophilos. David's legacy continues through his beloved sons-in-law, Anthony Papa, Greg Rosebeck, and John (Yianni) Theophilos, and his five treasured grandchildren: Grace Margaret Papa, Owen David Rosebeck, Reese Katherine Rosebeck, Lea Sheley Theophilos, and Anna Kali Theophilos, and nephews: Garrett, Robert, Charles and Michael Immer.

David graduated from Dayton University with a degree in Mechanical Engineering and from Northwestern University with a PhD in physics. David's illustrious career as a laser physicist at United Technologies Corporation in East Hartford, Connecticut, spanned 25 years, during which he headed the optical physics department. He was a pioneer in thermodynamics research, authoring numerous papers - his best known, "High-Power Laser Propagation: Thermal Blooming" in 1977. Another key research project was the strategic defense initiative (dubbed Star Wars) during the Reagan era. Even into retirement, he never stopped working. His expertise was sought after as a key consultant on the Hubble telescope, and he authored numerous patents.

Beyond his professional achievements, David, alongside his wife Kathleen, was a founding member of the Glastonbury's A Better Chance (ABC) program, reflecting their shared commitment to community and education. They were an original host family bringing Allen Wells from Pittsburgh to live as family and attend high school.

David was the life of the party, his spirit soaring among friends and family. He found joy in simple pleasures, from playing tennis, sailing, birdwatching (osprey), bocce and a good beer. His infectious sense of fun and readiness to break out in song left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

David's life will be celebrated at a joint mass with his recently deceased wife, Kathleen, on Monday March 23, 2026 at 10:00 AM at St. Dunstan's Church located at 1345 Manchester Road, Glastonbury. Following the burial at Holy Cross Cemetery, all who attend are warmly invited to join the family for a luncheon, a time to share stories, laughter, and love in his memory. Calling hours are Sunday, March 22 at Mulryan Funeral Home, 725 Hebron Avenue, Glastonbury from 1-3 pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Glastonbury branch of A Better Chance, glastonburyabc.org.