Lathan Dean Smith

Lathan (LD) Dean Smith, 56, went to be with his Lord and Savior on January 29, 2025, surrounded by family. He was preceded in death by his father, Lathan Smith, and mother, Kathleen Smith. LD and his brother were born and raised in Avon Park, FL. After high school, he moved to Orlando for college. This was where he met the love of his life, Dawn. They met through line dancing and their mutual love of country music. They were engaged two years after meeting, and spent the next 30 years together before his passing. LD is survived by his loving wife, Dawn Smith, brother Bart (Stephanie) Smith, son Andy (Erica) Smith, son Clay Smith (Alyssa B.), son Josh Smith (Julia S.), daughter Emma Smith (Jacob H.), two precious granddaughters Raelynn and Paisley Smith, two loving aunts, Carol Gower and Frankie Smith, three nephews, and two nieces.

LD was absolutely the heartbeat of his family, a man of many words and great stories. He was a devoted husband and best friend to his precious wife, who never missed an opportunity to share the happenings of his children and grandchildren. He was a person that never met a stranger, and you never felt like a stranger after an encounter with LD. His true heart could be seen watching him be a remarkable father to his children. LD never missed an opportunity to be involved in the things his children did over the years, from coaching baseball, practicing lacrosse, working on cars, fishing, to practicing cheer routines, he did it all! Nothing his children did was too small for LD, he was present for all of it. While a remarkable father, LD was an even prouder Pop. He took great pride in watching his grand daughters grow up and never missed an opportunity to spend time with them. They never doubted Pop’s love for them. 

LD’s love and admiration reached beyond his children and extended to his siblings, nephews, nieces, and even the young men he worked alongside. He was always there to offer advice, lend a shoulder to cry on, or just listen. He was a man that everyone wanted to emulate, a true picture of respect and love. To be loved by LD was an honor and privilege. 

While LD’s passing will leave a massive hole in the hearts of everyone that knew him, we all rest in the knowledge that he is whole, happy, and healthy resting in the arms of his Savior and reunited with his parents in Heaven! 

Services for LD will be held at Highland Funeral Home & Memory Garden in Apopka, FL on Saturday, February 8th at 12:30, with family receiving friends starting at 12:00.

But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. 

~Isaiah 40:31~