Leonard D. Smith

Chief Master Sergeant Leonard Dwight Smith, USAF (Ret.)

Chief Master Sergeant Leonard Dwight Smith, USAF (Ret.) was born on September 28, 1948, in New York, New York, to Major Smith and Leona Brown Smith. Leonard lived a life marked by service, compassion, and devotion to others. A proud airman who rose through the ranks to become a chief master sergeant, he embodied the ideals of integrity, excellence, and selfless service.

Leonard served his country with distinction for 36 years, earning commendations for his dedication, courage, and leadership. He began his military journey in 1967, serving as a loadmaster on a bomber plane during the Vietnam War. He carried out missions over Vietnamese territory that demanded precision and unwavering composure. In 1970, he received an honorable discharge from active duty, but his service to his country did not end there. On September 5, 1978, he joined the 30th Aerial Port Squadron as an Air Reserve Technician (ART) for the 914th Airlift Wing (Niagara Falls, NY), continuing a lifelong commitment to readiness, responsibility, and excellence.

On July 18, 2025, at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Leonard Smith, beloved husband, father, grandfather, veteran, and community leader, peacefully drew his last breath at 76.

For 46 years, Leonard shared an unshakable bond with his beloved wife, Rosetta “Monique” Smith. Together, they raised two outstanding children and devoted themselves to building a family rooted in love, faith, and service. Leonard’s mentorship, advocacy, and community involvement had a lasting effect on many lives. Whether coaching his children’s swim teams, women’s volleyball and softball teams on base, or mentoring youth. As a former Boy Scout and mentor in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program, or simply lending a helping hand, he became a steadfast advocate for the next generation. His servant leadership was a living demonstration of the command to “love thy neighbor.” He was a deeply present father and husband. He rarely missed his children’s dance recitals, athletic competitions, concerts, or academic events, cheering them on with pride.

Leonard found joy in wholesome entertainment. He relished the theater, Disney classics, Lifetime dramas, timeless Westerns, and the dignified performances of Sidney Poitier. He cherished smooth jazz, R&B, Motown, and classic rock music. He was a loyal fan of the New York Jets, Mets, and Knicks. He was a world traveler and a lover of legal suspense novels.

Leonard’s laughter was contagious, his words kind, and his presence steady and filled with grace. His faith in God was lived out quietly yet powerfully through his daily actions, always guided by love and humility. His favorite song, “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong, accurately reflects his outlook of gratefulness, hope, and wonder.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Rosetta; daughter Shavon-Cinnamon Doran (Andrew); son Shane Matthew Smith (Britani); granddaughters Arrya Leona Smith, Gabriela James Doran, and Jaylah Janice Smith; and his dear brother Vincent Smith. He leaves behind a legacy of integrity, love, and joyful generosity.

To know Leonard was to witness God’s goodness in action. As his family and friends mourn his passing, they also celebrate a life lived fully, honorably, and with an open heart. In the words that surely greet him now: “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Leonard’s inurnment will take place on Friday, September 26, 2025. The procession will begin at 12:30 PM. (Western New York (WNY) National Cemetery, 1254 Indian Falls Road, Corfu, NY 14036). Promptness is essential. A memorial service will be held at 3 PM (New Hope Baptist Church, 1122 Buffalo Avenue, Niagara Falls, NY 14303).

Kindly RSVP to the memorial by texting Rosetta at 716-628-9228.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the African American Veterans Monument (https://aavmwny.org/support-us/).