Donald E. Smith

Donald Edward Smith, age 81, of Louisville, Kentucky, passed away peacefully on March 10, 2026, surrounded by his family and friends, after a brief illness. He was born on July 6, 1944, in Louisville, Kentucky, to the late Albert Smith Sr. and Theodora Smith. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. March 21, 2026, at New Zion Baptist Church, 1501 Louis Coleman Jr. Drive. Visitation will begin at 9 a.m. Interment will follow in Louisville Memorial Gardens – West.

Donald was a devoted father, grandfather, husband, brother, and friend, and a steady presence in the lives of all who knew him. He was known for his kindness, strength, humor, generosity, and strong work ethic, as well as for the way he made people feel safe, welcomed, and deeply loved.

Throughout his life, Donald worked as a Supervisor at Ford Motor Company, where he took great pride in his work, providing for his family and helping others. An entrepreneur and public servant, he was the owner of Male Logistics II and served as a Special Jefferson County Sheriff’s Deputy (Badge Number 982). Donald was also a proud member of the Fraternal Order of Police, Lodge 25.

Outside of work, Donald found joy in spending time with his family and friends and in faithfully serving his church home, New Zion Baptist Church. Above all else, he loved God and his family deeply.

Donald is survived by his loving daughters: Dionne Burns; Shannen Heyman (James); and Camille Smith. He leaves behind six cherished grandsons: Corrion Tyree Anderson (Dionne); Demetrius Jafar Lex Heyman, James Kuei Kier Lex Heyman, and Donevon Alexander Lex Heyman (Shannen); Sean Martin Smith and Corban Joseph Smith Brown (Camille). He is also survived by three great-grandchildren.

He is further survived by his siblings: Delores Wilson (William), Shirley Anderson, Albert W. Smith Jr. (Annie), Denise Williams, and Vincent Tyrone Smith (Kimberly), as well as a host of nieces and nephews who will forever cherish his memory.

Donald was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Wylyne Verlynda “Lynda” Smith; his parents, Albert Smith Sr. and Theodora Smith; his brother, Milton Smith Sr.; and his sister, Dorothy Smith.

Donald Edward Smith will be deeply missed and forever loved.