Donald Richard Smith

In 1953, Don joined the U.S. Army and served his country for over 21 years having served in the Korean War and two tours of Vietnam. On October 31, 1974, he retired from the U.S. Army as Sergeant 1st Class and earned the Bronze Star, National Defense Service Medal, Drill Sergeant Identification Badge, and was the first person to receive Drill Sergeant of the Year for four years in a row at Fort Dix. Proud of his military career, Don became a member of the American Legion and a lifetime member of the VFW.

Don enjoyed playing cribbage and horseshoes, and rooting for his favorite sports teams the Celtics, Bruins and Patriots. An outdoor enthusiast from a young age, he loved spending time fishing and hunting with his friends, and drives on backcountry roads with a cold one. He wasn’t good with a hammer and nail, but he sure tried his best. Remembered for his kind soul, Don was a great teacher and mentor to many loved ones and strangers.

He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years Linda Rose (Tidd) Smith; children Fred Smith, Laurie Smith, Jamie Smith and his wife Melody; sisters Sandra M., Phyllis L., Joyce L.; brothers Richard Smith, Gary Smith, Mike Smith; grandchildren Karen Smith, Jordan Smith, Jessica Smith, and 4 additional grandchildren; great-grandchildren Evan Johnson; and many loving nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his daughter Jessica Jo Smith; sons Phillip Smith and David Smith; sister Priscilla; and brothers George Smith, Norman Smith, and Paul Smith.

A visitation will be held Monday, June 17, 2024 from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Zis-Sweeney & St. Laurent Funeral Home, 26 Kinsley Street, NH. A burial will occur Thursday, June 20, 2024 at 10:00 AM at St. Francis Xavier Cemetery, Pine Hill Ave, Nashua, NH.

Donations in Don’s memory may be offered to the Disabled American Veterans.