Donald V. Smith of Mansfield, Ohio, affectionately known by many friends as "Farmer Don," passed away in the early hours of Friday morning, July the 26, 2024 a week short of his 86th birthday. Born August 2nd, 1938 as the middle child of Omar Smith and Iva Faye Smith (Booth). Don graduated from Mansfield Senior High, where he cultivated a reputation as a prankster, with more time dedicated to his friendships than his homework.
Don was married to Catherine Sue Smith (Thomas) for 26 years until she lost her battle with cancer in 2011. The two met at the Mansfield Telephone Company, later Sprint, where Don worked loyally until retirement. Though he accomplished much during his decades working there as fleet manager, what Don always cared about the most was time spent with friends and loved ones. Never actually one to spend time on a farm, he earned the nickname Farmer Don after driving a plow at Snow Trails in his youth. There he met an eclectic group of friends that would remain a fixture in each other's lives for well over 60 years.
Don joins his daughter Shelley in Heaven, who passed far too soon, and his wife, Catherine.
He is survived by his daughter, Beth Smith and her partner Morgan Taylor; younger brother, Darrell (Lynda) Smith; nephew, Andy Smith; and many more loving relatives and close friends.
Family will receive guests Friday, August 2, 2024 from 12:30-1:30 pm at Wappner Funeral Directors-Mansfield, 98 S. Diamond Street. Funeral services will follow immediately at 1:30 pm. Donald will be laid to rest in Mansfield Memorial Park. Memorial contributions may be made to Mansfield Playhouse, 95 E. 3rd St., Mansfield, OH 44902 or American Federation of Musicians Local 159, 228 Foxcroft Rd., Lexington, Ohio 44904.
