Donald "Donnie" Smith

Mr. Donald Smith, affectionately known to his family and friends as "Donnie," passed away peacefully on September 6, 2025, at Englewood Hospital and Medical Center in Englewood, New Jersey, following a brief illness.

Born on February 13, 1954, in Reidsville, Tattnall County, Georgia, Donnie was the beloved son of the late Mr. Herschel Smith and Mrs. Catherine Smith. He was the cherished grandson of the late Mr. and Mrs. Brad and Janie Smith on his paternal side, and the late Mr. and Mrs. Lester and Jadie Mae Costen on his maternal side.

From a young age, Donnie nurtured a strong spiritual foundation. Under the guidance of the late Rev. J.R. Rice, he accepted Christ and became a devoted member of Bethel A.M.E. Church in Collins, Georgia. He attended Tattnall Elementary School in Reidsville and graduated from Reidsville High School in 1972. During his high school years, Donnie proudly wore jersey number 80 as a member of the Reidsville High School football team, where he demonstrated not only athletic talent but also leadership and determination on the field.

After graduation, Donnie relocated to the Bronx, New York, and later made his home in Teaneck, New Jersey.

Donnie was known for his vibrant personality, quick wit, and magnetic presence. A natural conversationalist and gifted debater, he had an insatiable curiosity—particularly about politics—and was always eager to share his thoughts. His love of reading only deepened his insight and sharpened his perspective. In his leisure time, Donnie was an avid sports enthusiast, with a particular love for football. Whether it was a Sunday game or a championship match, he enjoyed nothing more than relaxing and watching his favorite teams on television.

Throughout his career, Donnie worked as a long-distance truck driver, a profession that suited his independent spirit and deep appreciation for the open road. But beyond his professional life, he was a devoted caregiver, an exceptional cook, and a source of unwavering support to his mother, siblings, and extended family. Donnie's generosity, strength, and deep love for family left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Mr. Herschel and Mrs. Catherine Smith; and four brothers: Jerome Smith, Benjamin Smith, Lamar Smith, and Clifford Smith.

He leaves to cherish his memory one beloved brother, Mr. Quinton Smith of Rock Hill, South Carolina; two nephews, Mr. Rolland Smith of Rock Hill, South Carolina, and Mr. Allan Smith of Long Island, New York; one niece, Ms. Janelle Smith of Long Island, New York; four loving aunts, Mrs. Julie (Layman) Bailey of Atlanta, Georgia; Mrs. Frances (Alphonso) Borden of Englewood, New Jersey; Mrs. Jessie Dean (William) Goodman of Elmont, New York; and Mrs. Helen (Alton) McKinnon of Collins, Georgia; one devoted uncle, Mr. Willis Costen of Collins, Georgia; and a special cousin, Mr. Herman Smith of Collins, Georgia. Donnie is also survived by a host of cousins, extended family members, and dear friends who will miss him deeply.

Donnie's vibrant spirit, sharp intellect, and loving heart will be remembered always. His legacy of strength, compassion, and community lives on in those he touched.