David Smith
Hartford | Save
David Henry Smith, 83, of Hartford, Illinois, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Friday, June 26, 2026. Born on May 16, 1943, David was a lifelong resident of Hartford and a man whose quiet strength, unwavering love for his family, and generous heart touched everyone who knew him.
David proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps before dedicating 35 years of hard work as a crane operator for Shell Oil Company. He believed in honesty, hard work, and taking care of those he loved.
Before his health declined, David found his greatest peace outdoors. He was an avid hunter and fisherman who cherished time spent in nature and created countless memories doing what he loved. Whether in the woods, on the water, or simply surrounded by family, he appreciated life’s simple blessings.
He never met a stranger, always had a story to tell, and leaves behind a legacy of kindness, laughter, and unconditional love that will never be forgotten.
Above all else, David’s greatest joy was his family. He was a devoted son, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend whose love was steady, selfless, and unconditional. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought him immeasurable pride and happiness, and the love he gave them will continue to live on for generations.
David was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Donna Ann Smith (Nowicki); his mother, Sarah Marene Vaughn (Kizer); his father, James William Smith; his brother, Steve Jones; and his brother-in-law, George Blakeslee.
He is lovingly survived by his sister, Kay Blakeslee; his daughters, Shelia Smith Clements (Randy), Maryann Smith DelPozo (Jason), and Jennifer Smith; his grandchildren, Jordan McNab Nations (James), Nadia Msakni, and Vera Smith; and his cherished great-grandsons, Noah and Beau Nations, who brought him so much joy.
The family would also like to express their heartfelt gratitude to David’s devoted caregiver, Paula Reynolds. Her compassion, kindness, and faithful care allowed David to remain comfortable and surrounded by love, and her dedication will never be forgotten.
A visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at Paynic Funeral Home, 618 East Airline Drive, East Alton, Illinois 62024. A luncheon will immediately follow at Castelli’s at 255, 3400 Fosterburg Road, Alton, Illinois 62002. All family and friends are warmly invited to attend. The family welcomes everyone who would like to stay, share a meal, celebrate David’s life, and reminisce together. Graveside services will be held on Thursday at Rose Lawn Memory Garden in Bethalto.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, a charity that held special meaning to David and his family.
Paynic Home for Funerals
