Donald Troy “Don” Smith, 76, went away quietly and gently with the Lord on June 3, 2023, surrounded by his wife and kids. He was born on January 25, 1947, in Hot Springs, Ark., to Troy and Betty Smith.
Don lived a life full of love and the Lord’s blessings and favor. He grew up in Oklahoma with his two younger sisters Kathy and Shelly. He grew up visiting and fishing with his family in Hot springs Arkansas. His father, Troy Smith, was known for his “Smitty’s” grocery stores in Waynoka, Cyril, and Gage. Don often assisted his dad in these local stores.
He graduated from Waynoka High School where he played football and baseball as a kicker and pitcher. He went on to graduate college from the University of Northwestern Oklahoma with a BA in economics. Don enlisted in the Army in August 1969 and was honorably discharged in March 1972 as an SP5. His medals and honors include: a bronze star, air medal, Vietnam defense medal, expert infantry, and artillery personal, along with various other military honors.
Don married his college sweetheart Janice Smith on December 16, 1967. They were blessed with two daughters, Trisha and Crystal. Don was devoted to a life of ministry no matter what that looked like. He was an evangelist, pastor, counselor, compassionate soul winner, and advocate for others. He boldly stood up for people and saved lives because of it. He was the definition of being a “champion for others.” He enjoyed hunting, fishing, writing poetry, various movies, and being with his family. He was a talented speaker and storyteller. He was wise, sensitive, and a joke enthusiast.
He was a loving Husband, Dad, Brother, Son, Papadon, and Friend. Don was many things but most importantly he was a child of God. He loved big and well and he would leave you laughing without a doubt.
Don was preceded in death by his parents, Troy and Betty Smith.
Don is survived by his wife, Jan Smith; sisters, Kathy Kocher and Shelly Decker; daughters, Trisha Smith and Crystal Cripps; son-in-law, Dillon Cripps; grandkids, Savannah Northcutt, Noel, Zion, and Serenity Cripps; as well as many friends and family.
His celebration of life service will be held at St. Paul’s Congregational church in Shattuck, Okla., at 10 a.m. on June 24, 2023. In lieu of flowers donations can be sent to the Wounded Warrior Project.
Arrangements are under the direction of Brown’s Durant Funeral and Cremation Service.