Don Patrick Smith

In Loving Memory of Don Patrick Smith

June 13, 1939 – January 3, 2026

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Don Patrick Smith, who was born on June 13, 1939, in Washington D.C. He was the beloved son of Don and Margaret Smith.

Don grew up in the state of Maryland and Washington, D.C. He attended Marion Junior College in Maryland, earning a degree in Art. Inspired by a movie about fighter jets, Don dreamed of flying, but when his math skills didn't meet the requirements for the USAF, a recruiter encouraged him to try the US Navy instead. In 1960, Don joined the USN with entry to OCS at Pensacola NAS.

During this time, he met and eventually married Donna Anne Kelson (Smith) on November 24, 1962. Together, they had two children: his son, Allen Cooper Smith, and his daughter, Kerri Marie Smith (deceased).

While on active duty, Don served with Squadron VU 2, flying F8 Crusaders-known as the "Last of the Gunfighters." He later joined VA 43 before heading to a tour in Vietnam with VA 76 aboard the USS Enterprise, where he flew the A4 Skyhawk and participated in Operation Linebacker I. After his Vietnam tour, Don continued his service in the USN Reserves with VA 303 at Alameda NAS, where he served as Squadron Commander for two years. He remained in the Reserves until June 13, 1999, retiring with the rank of Captain.

Parallel to his military career, Don joined Pan American Airlines, traveling the world, and later transitioned to Delta Airlines after Pan Am closed. He retired from Delta in 2001 as a Captain.

Don's life was marked by kindness, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to his family and community. Throughout his years, he touched the lives of many with his gentle spirit and generous heart. He will be lovingly remembered by all who knew him. Don's legacy will live on through the countless memories shared with friends and family, and the lasting impact he made on those around him.

Visitation will be held on Friday, January 16, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at Waters & Hibbert Funeral Home, with the Funeral Service beginning at 1:00 PM. Interment will follow at Barrancas National Cemetery.

The family invites all who knew Don to join in celebrating his remarkable life and to share their cherished stories and memories. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice in Don Patrick Smith's honor.

He will be dearly missed and forever in our hearts.