Donald Wingfield Smith, born on May 5, 1944, in Richmond, Virginia, passed on October 20, 2025, at his home in Arlington, Virginia. He was 81. He was a distinguished attorney known for his expertise in investment management and mutual fund law. He was a partner at K&L Gates for over 47 years, where he formed enduring friendships with colleagues from all over the world.
He graduated from St. Christopher’s School in Richmond in 1962, pursued an undergraduate degree in History at Yale University, graduating in 1966, and further advanced his education with a Masters in Foreign Affairs from the University of Virginia in 1969. He culminated his academic pursuits with a law degree from the University of Virginia School of Law, graduating in 1978.
Donald was an avid reader, film buff, and bird watcher.
He is survived by his cherished family: wife Catherine Smith; daughters Caroline Smith and Stephanie Jordan-Smith, and son-in-law, Matthew Jordan. He is preceded in death by his father, Dr. Leroy Smith, his mother, Dorothy Odle Smith, and his brother, Lee Smith.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Donald’s honor may be made to the Arlington Free Clinic.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.


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