Donald E. Smith, 94, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 9, 2020. Don was born March 3, 1926 to C.P. and Mona Smith in Assumption, Illinois. He was the fourth of seven sons.

Don married Helena Belle Whitten on September 18, 1948. He served in the U.S. Army (1944-1966) during WWII, Korean, and Vietnam Wars. The last ten years of service were with the Nike Air Defense Missile System. Don was awarded the Army Commendation medal for his work with the Nike system upon his retirement in 1966. His second career began with the Honeywell Field Engineering Computer Division from which he retired after 16 years. Don, Helena, and their youngest daughter, Melanie, then moved to San Marcos, Texas in 1983. Don enjoyed Amateur radio, square dancing, computer work, and volunteering. After 34 in San Marcos, Don moved to Brookdale Independent Living in Webster, Texas. Don continued to stay active with his computer and volunteer work within his new community.

Don is preceded in death by his wife of 59 years, Helena Belle. He is survived by his son Steven Smith and wife Nancy of Lubbock, Texas; daughter Deborah Kenas and husband Rod of Dickinson, Texas; daughter Melanie Molina and husband Christopher of Tyler, Texas; and brother Nyle Smith of Fresno, California. He is also survived by 8 granddaughters, Frances Smith, Farrah Scott and husband Mark, Hannah Roach, Rebecca Abel and husband Josh, Laura Sherman and husband Matt, Sydney Molina, Avery Molina, and Hayley Molina. Don is survived as well by seven great-grandchildren; Ian, Piper, Alexandra, Clara Kate, Will, Megyn, and Ezekiel. Don’s family was the light of his life. He will be greatly missed by all.

Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery in San Antonio, Texas will be Don’s final resting place. Due to COVID restrictions, the service will be limited to family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

www.alz.org/texascapital