Rev. Dr. Dan Smith

Rev. Dr. Dan Smith, of New Haven, MO, was killed in Teutopolis, IL, in a multiple vehicle accident resulting from an ammonia spill on Friday, September 29, 2023 at the age of 67. He was father to Micah Smith of Green Camp, OH, brother of Sande (Smith) & Randy Hardy and uncle to several nieces & nephews. He was the son of the late Edward & Bette Smith. Dan was a precious friend to many and a pastor to all.

Dan was born in Connersville, Indiana and received his Bachelor's Degree from Indiana University before heading off to Methodist Theological Seminary in Delaware, OH to earn a Master’s of Divinity Degree. Later on he went back to Western Theological Seminary in Holland, MI, to earn his doctorate in 2011. Dan served many churches over his years in ministry, spending the first 20 years serving as a Methodist Minister before switching to the United Church of Christ. He was serving at St. Peter’s UCC in New Haven, MO at the time of his death.

Dan loved taking rides on his Harley Davidson, and was part of a Harley Davidson riding group in Cincinnati, OH, and also St. Charles, MO. He had many bikes over the years and loved riding anytime the weather was good. His love for Harley Davidson was over the top, so much so that he named his black lab, Harley. Dan also loved playing the drums, listening to classic rock and roll, and reading a good book or watching a movie.

Dan loved his family very much and spent time staying in touch by phone or text, whenever he could. Dan never knew a stranger, because anyone he met became his friend. He would do anything to help someone in need, providing a listening ear or a shoulder to cry on. Dan will be dearly missed by all those who knew him.

A memorial service is being held on Saturday, October 21, 2023, at 1 o’clock in the afternoon, at his current church, St. Peter’s UCC, 607 Maupin Avenue, New Haven, MO.

At a later date, there will also be a celebration of life for Dan held in his hometown of Connersville, IN. In lieu of flowers, please contribute to your local Lions Club or local soup kitchen.