David Ray Smith

David Ray Smith, age 56, of Advance, North Carolina passed away on Friday, October 29, 2021. David was born October 22, 1965 in Wiesbaden Germany to SSG Alvia Ray Smith and Peggy J. Smith. Growing up in a military family David had the privilege of living all over the United States.

After graduating with a BS in Industrial Engineering and an MBA he used his skills in several different fields including Engineering Consulting, Defense and information technology services, and the automotive industry.

David has always loved the military and joined the Georgia National Guard at 17. After becoming Ft. Benning's first survivor of spinal meningitis during basic training, he served 2 years and decided to go in the Navy. He served 4 years in the Navy, traveling all over the world, then went to college and received his bachelor's degree. After 9/11 he felt the call to join the Army Reserves. He served a year long deployment in 2004/2005 during Iraqi Freedom. He was a drill sergeant for several years and loved working with the future soldiers training project. His most recent assignment as a career counselor allowed him to help other soldiers with their military career. He was a true warrior at heart.

He is survived by his mother, Peggy J Smith Farmer, his wife Danielle, and their children: Austin, Caity, and Roman, his cats (including the good cat) and his snoring dog.

Growing up, David had a spirited personality and was always trying to make people laugh. He had a wicked sense of humor, an unfortunate (but hilarious) knack for setting things on fire, a love for hot dogs ( particularly chili dogs), and an amazingly kind heart. David never failed to give to those in need and always aided those who called upon him. All who ever met him loved and admired him.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.frankvoglerandsonsclemmons.com for the Smith family.