David Delano Smith, Sr. was born on April 30, 1939, at his family home in Collinwood, TN, son of the late Otha Keith, Sr. (Tobe) and Mary Shipman Smith. He was united in marriage to Fana Berry Smith on August 12, 1960, in Florence, Alabama. Mr. Smith served honorably in the U.S. Navy from 1956-1960, during which time he toured Japan, the Philippines, and many other ports around the world. Following his service, he attended Freed Hardeman College, and at the age of 28 dedicated his life to The Lord, becoming a gospel minister. He served many congregations in the midsouth, eventually settling in Lawrenceburg, TN, where for the last 23 years he has served as the minister at Deerfield Church of Christ. He remained there until his passing at his home, on June 18, 2023, at the age of 84.
In his spare time, he enjoyed working with his hands. He was an accomplished carpenter who built two church buildings and several of his family homes.
He is survived by his wife, Fana Berry Smith; son, David Smith, Jr. of Lawrenceburg, TN, son Keith Smith (Aimee) of Hendersonville, TN; grandchildren, Will, Zach, and Mary Smith; sister, Margaret Daniel, and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, W.C., Melvin (Pill), Otha Jr. (Tootsie); and sister, Ruth Hanback.
Memorial services will be held Saturday, June 24, 2023 at 1:00 pm, with visitation beginning at 11:00 am, at Collinwood Church of Christ, 101 4th Avenue North, Collinwood, TN 38450. All friends and family are encouraged to attend.
