Richard Dale "Dick" Smith

Richard Dale "Dick" Smith obituary

Richard Dale "Dick" Smith

Richard Smith Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Arlington Memorial Gardens Funeral Home & Crematory on Sep. 19, 2025.

Publish in a newspaper

Richard Dale Smith, age 91, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 5, 2025. He was born on October 4, 1933, to the late Paul Smith and Bertha (nee White) Smith.

He was the beloved husband for 72 years to Dolores (nee Walter) Smith; devoted father of Cindy (Stanley) Shotts and Randy (Sharon) Smith; cherished grandfather to Krista Etzler, Nikki (Josh) Cook, Barbara (Jeff) Ginn, Andrea (Chris) Mullins, Erika (Corry) Thomas and Mallory (Matt) Smith and 22 great-grandchildren. He was the loving brother of the late Paula Dudley-Biehl and Jim Smith.

Richard proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy during the Korean Conflict. Following his military service, he built a long and dedicated career as a diesel mechanic with McLean Trucking, where he was known for his strong work ethic and reliability.

Known to many as "Dick," he found great joy in life's simple pleasures. He especially loved fishing trips with his son, bowling-where he once bowled a perfect 300 game-and golfing with friends, often traveling for memorable golf outings. Sundays were a cherished time for Dick, whether spent gathered around the dinner table at Randy and Sharon's house with family, or watching NASCAR-one of his favorite pastimes.

Faith played a central role in Dick's life. He was a devoted member of Highview Church, serving as both a Deacon and an Elder for the majority of his life. Dick was always eager to lend a hand and took an active role in nearly every church function, offering his time and support wherever it was needed.

Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at Highview Christian Church, 2651 Adams Road, beginning at 8:00 AM until the time of the funeral service at 9:30 AM. Immediately following the service burial will take place at Arlington Memorial Gardens.

Donations may be made to Highview Christian Church in Dick's name.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

People and places connected with Richard
How to support Richard's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Richard Smith's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Richard Smith's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?