Donovan Smith

Donovan Smith, 86, of Vine Grove, passed away Monday, Nov. 3, 2025 at the Kensington Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Elizabethtown.

Don served as an officer with Kentucky Water Patrol, where he also retired as director of the department. Later, Mr. Smith served two terms as the mayor of Vine Grove, where he was known for his hands-on approach and his dedication to the well-being of the townspeople. Beyond his contributions to public service, Donovan was an avid antique collector and outdoorsman. He found solace and joy in the simple pleasures of fishing and boating.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Juanita Smith; and a brother, Roger Smith.

Mr. Smith is survived by his wife of 64 years, Penny Smith; two children, Craig Smith and his wife, Stacey, and Cindy Rinck and her husband, Lance; five grandchildren, Jessie Grace Smith, Eliza Rinck, Jonah Rinck, Gabriel Rinck and Gideon Rinck; and a host of friends.

The funeral for Mr. Smith is at 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 15, in the chapel of Chism Family Funeral Home in Vine Grove. Burial follows in Vine Grove Cemetery.

Visitation is from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home.
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