Donald Lynn "Donnie" Smith

Donald "Donnie" Lynn Smith, 58, of Cocoa, Florida, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 17, 2026, surrounded by his loving and devoted family. He was born on October 2, 1967, in Macon, Georgia, to Thomas Hilton Smith and the late Rebbie Johnson Smith.

A dedicated educator, Donnie obtained his Master's degree, along with earning his Specialist in Education. He diligently served as the Superintendent of Schools for Sumter County, Georgia from which he retired, where he had a profound impact on countless students and educators throughout his career, which included roles as a teacher, principal, and working with several technical colleges. He also retired from Georgia Southwestern State University, where he was an instructor. After retirement, Donnie moved to Florida, where he continued teaching at Eastern Florida State College in Melbourne, FL, and online with South Georgia Technical. Donnie was known as a great servant and leader in his community who believed wholeheartedly in the power of family, education, and service. He was a genuine man, always leading with integrity, compassion, and a sincere love for people.

Donnie had a passion for life that was reflected in his love for teaching, golfing and traveling, particularly to Japan, which held a special place in his heart. Along with his devoted wife, Amy, they were afforded opportunities to travel around the world in the last few years, enjoying God's beautiful creation as well as each other's company.

Welcoming Donnie home was his loving mother, Rebbie Johnson Smith; his brother, Thomas Allen Smith, M.D.; his sister, Nancy Ruth Murphy and brother-in-law Vance Boyd Murphy, Sr.

Left to cherish his memory is his beloved wife and soulmate, Amy Rector-Smith of Cocoa, FL; his cherished sons, Matthew Smith of Melbourne, FL and Caleb Smith (Nicole) of Cochran, GA; his bonus children, Blake Rector (Lauren) of Griffin, GA and Jordyn Rector (Cody Rose) of Austin, TX; his beloved grandchildren that brought immense joy to his life, Ashton Smith, Olive Rose, Cecilia Caroline Rector, Blakely Rector, and Lana Rector. He is also survived by his father, Thomas Hilton Smith of Georgia; his twin brother and best friend, Ronnie Smith (Rochelle) of Warner Robins, GA, along with his brothers Larry Smith (Debbie) of Conway, SC, Randy Smith (Carole) of Loganville, GA, Jerry Smith (Vicki) of Cartersville, GA, and Sammy Smith of Augusta, GA; and sister-in-law Linda Smith of Staffordsville, KY; his loyal and loving cat, Brucie; along with all his nieces and nephews.

A funeral service to honor Donnie's life will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at 12:00 noon at Burpee-Scott Memorial Chapel, with Jerry Smith and Vance Murphy officiating. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 10:00am-12:00pm. Private Interment will follow the service at Moody-Daniels Cemetery.

Donnie will be deeply missed by all who knew him, as he leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and passion for education that will continue to live on through the lives he inspired and the values he instilled in others.

With honor, Burpee-Scott Memorial Chapel & Crematory has been entrusted with arrangements.