Donald Neil Smith

Donald Neil Smith, 82, passed away peacefully on November 1, 2026, at New Hope Assisted Living. While our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in knowing that his faith was strong and he is now home with his Lord and Savior, and with family and friends who have recently passed.

Born on July 23, 1944, to the late James Sr. and Claribel (Hunter) Smith.

Don was a quiet man, but his life spoke volumes. He was a God-fearing man who loved the Lord and devoted so much of his time to serving his church. Whether as a deacon, secretary, treasurer, or leading Bible studies and small groups, his faith was not simply something he talked about; it was something he lived. He had a remarkable knowledge of Scripture and always seemed to have just the right verse to share when someone needed encouragement.

For 35 years, Don dedicated himself to teaching, with much of that time spent teaching fourth grade. He didn't just want his students to learn; he wanted them to love learning, understand what they were being taught, and carry that knowledge with them. He genuinely cared about the children who came through his classroom and went above and beyond to help them succeed. Teaching wasn't just his profession; it was his passion.

He married Jane Maniwczak on September 28, 1968.  He was a proud dad to Paul, Christine, and Kimberly, and a loving grandfather to Sarah, Mya, Courtlyn, and Jaydin.

Some of Don's favorite pastimes were spending summers with his grandchildren, helping them with schoolwork, making memories, and cheering them on at their sporting events. He also spent hours in their classrooms during the regular school season. He was so proud of each of them, and those memories will stay with them forever. He also had a tender heart, a forgiving spirit, and a willingness to help anyone who needed it.

And if you knew Don, you knew about his love for chocolate and sweets! We are pretty sure there's a stash of chocolate waiting for him in heaven, and can just picture him happily enjoying every bit of it (now that Jane can't hide the stash on him...lol). He also took great pride in his lawn and landscaping and often played solitaire on the computer.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, James Sr. and Claribel Smith; siblings, Nora (Luke) Clor and James Jr. (Emily) Smith.

Cremation has taken place. Donald will be laid to rest at Two Rivers Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.