Donald Gary Smith, age 87, of Columbia, Tennessee, passed away peacefully at his home on June 14, 2026.

Born on March 13, 1939, in Elmont, Alabama, Donald was the son of the late Hubert Smith and Edith Smith. He lived a life filled with faith, music, family, and a deep appreciation for the natural world.

A longtime member of Calvary Baptist Church, Donald's faith remained an important part of his life. He possessed a lifelong fascination with herpetology and enjoyed studying and learning about reptiles and amphibians. Above all, however, music was one of his greatest passions. Donald was a talented guitarist who spent countless hours playing alongside his brother, Philip. Throughout the years, he performed with numerous bands at venues across Tennessee, Alabama, Mississippi, and Arkansas, sharing his love of music with audiences and fellow musicians alike.

In addition to his musical pursuits, Donald dedicated many years of service as a technician with Mead Corporation, where he was respected for his hard work and commitment.

Donald was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend. He shared 65½ wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Linda Wolfe Smith, building a life centered on love, dedication, and family.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory his loving wife, Linda Wolfe Smith; granddaughter, Skyelynn Culver (Jeffrey); great-grandchildren, Lincoln, Alice, Joshua, and Nathan Culver; siblings, Philip Wade Smith (Betty), and Joan Heathcoat; special nieces and nephews, Mickel Smith, Michele Smith, Jennifer Maxey, and Liz Cazan; along with numerous other nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

In addition to his parents, Donald was preceded in death by his son, Roger Dale Smith; and siblings, Shelby Jean Smith, Linda Fay Brown, Morris Wayne Smith, Jane Dodson and James D. Smith.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, June 21, 2026, from 2:00 PM until 4:00 PM at Williams Funeral Home in Columbia, Tennessee. A funeral service will be held on Monday, June 22, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Williams Funeral Home with Jennifer Maxey officiating. Donald will be laid to rest at Polk Memorial Gardens.

Pallbearers will be Jeffrey Culver, Lincoln Culver, Cozmin Cazan, Mickel Smith, Jorge Sanchez, and Troy Jacoby. Honorary Pallbearers will be Bryan Cazan and Sam Cazan. 

Donald will be remembered for his gentle spirit, unwavering love for his family, humor, and the music that brought joy to so many throughout his life. The family would like to thank home health and hospice for the compassionate care given to Mr. Donald.

Williams Funeral Home is assisting family with arrangements. Condolences can be given to the family at williamsfh.com.