Papa Doug Smith

Papa Doug Smith of Durant, Oklahoma passed away on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at the age of 83. He was born on Thursday, April 16, 1942 in Ladonia, Texas to Mildred Pauline (Norris) and Heman LT Smith.
He was a longtime resident of Durant, Oklahoma and went to school in Wade, Oklahoma. He enjoyed being outdoors and liked to be around trees and nature. He also enjoyed singing, fighting game cocks, and drinking a cold beer. He always had the door open for everyone and was willing to give the shirt off his back to help others. He took care of everyone. He also loved spending time with his grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents Mildred Lanell (Gaither) and Heman LT Smith; wife Diane Smith; sisters Lydia Vinyard, Sandra Marsh, Rita Sue Smith; brothers Herman Smith, Harvey Smith, Raymond Smith, Howard Smith, Dennis Smith; beloved daughter Theresa Smith; great grandson Joe Don Minyard; and former wife Mary Smith.
Survivors include his daughters Sue Rhinehart of Peggs, Oklahoma, Darla Dickerson and husband David of Durant, Oklahoma, Misti Smith of Blue, Oklahoma, Milly Smith and Albert Gill of Durant, Oklahoma, Lilly Waler and husband Bobby of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Christina Merritt; sons Claud "Tubby" Smith of Bennington, Oklahoma, William "Bubba" Smith and his wife Heather of Durant, Oklahoma, Josh Merritt, Jason Merritt; grandchildren Darla, Ronald, Johnny Lee, Johnna, Frankie, Jimmie, Andy, Micah, Lexy, Amanda Riley, Ashleigh, Doug, Adalina, Aynzlee, Aaron, Jacob, Libby, Maverick, J.W., Pai Pai, Tyler, Charis, Jacobi, Lyla, Corbin, siblings Bo Smith and wife Karen of Durant, Oklahoma, Pauline Smith of Durant, Oklahoma, Linda Wright and husband Carson of Bennington; numerous great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, as well as other extended family and friends.
A memorial service will be held at 5:30 pm on Saturday, August 30, 2025 at the Gordon Center, 305 N. 2nd Ave. Durant, OK 74701 with Dr. Greg Clay and Kevin Dale officiating.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Gordon Funeral Home, 221 N. 3rd, Durant, 580-916-9090 To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Papa Doug Smith, please visit our Tree Store.