Donald Ray Smith

Donald Ray Smith, 84, passed away peacefully on June 21, 2026, in Garland, TX, following a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

Donald was born on October 23, 1941, in Bryan, TX. After graduating high school, he went on to attend Texas A&M University, where he earned a degree in Electrical Engineering in 1963, and later earned a Master of Business Administration.

Upon graduating and completing the ROTC program, Donald entered the United States Army and in 1964, he was commissioned as a second lieutenant. He served his country honorably, rose to the rank of first lieutenant, and was honorably discharged in 1966.

On December 29, 1961, Donald married the love of his life, Barbara Ann Eck, in La Grange, TX. Their marriage of more than 64 years was the foundation of a life centered on faith, family, and shared adventures. Together, they raised three children: Sherry, Darrell, and Diane.

The family moved to the Dallas area in 1970 and settled in Garland in 1978, where Donald and Barbara made their home for the remainder of his life.

Donald worked as an electric engineer and engineering manager for approximately 30 years before retiring from Texas Utilities. After retiring, he began a second career as a travel and cruise planner. This allowed him to continue enjoying his own travels while helping others experience the world.

Donald and Barbara made travel and vacations an important part of their family's life, beginning with camping trips to numerous national parks and ski trips as the children grew older. As empty nesters, they expanded their travels which included cruises and group vacations ultimately visiting 47 States, 35 National Parks and 15 other countries.

Donald's Christian faith was central to his life. He and Barbara were faithful members of Lakeside Baptist Church, now Lake Pointe Church, for more than 50 years. Many of their closest and most enduring friendships began through their church family. He was also involved with the Gideons and Kiwanis and valued the many people he met through church, work, community service, and travel.

Donald treasured his role as a husband, father, and grandfather. He took great joy in supporting his children and grandchildren, whether attending their sporting events, school programs, or simply spending time together. He appreciated ordinary family moments as much as the major milestones.

Donald enjoyed computers, music, and travel. Above all, he valued his faith, his family, and the many friendships formed throughout his life.

Donald was preceded in death by his parents, James Milton Smith and Corinne Adams Smith; his brother, Milton Smith; his sister-in-law, Beverly Smith; his nephews, Jimmy Smith and David Smith; and his niece, Lori Smith.

Donald is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara; his daughter, Sherry Smith; his son and daughter-in-law, Darrell and Carrie Smith, and grandsons, Braden and Mason; and his daughter and son-in-law, Diane and Chad Hebel, and granddaughter, Chelsea Phelps. He is also survived by his nieces Robin Smith and Donna Smith Cole and nephew, Stephen Smith and other extended family members.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, June 25, 2026, from 4:00-7:00 PM at New Hope Funeral Home in Sunnyvale, TX.

A celebration of Donald's life will be held on Friday, June 26, 2026, at 2:00 PM in the chapel at New Hope Funeral Home. In keeping with Donald's wishes, the service will be uplifting and centered on faith, music, gratitude, and the celebration of a life well lived.

Donald will be laid to rest with military honors at DFW National Cemetery on Friday, July 24, 2026, at 1:15 PM.

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