Donald A. Smith, 90, of West Mansfield, died Friday, Dec. 1, 2017, at the Ohio State University (OSU) Wexner Medical Center, surrounded by his loving family.
He graduated from York Center High School in 1945. A lifelong dairy farmer, his strong work ethic was always an example to his children and grandchildren, along with his love for his family as a devoted husband, father and grandfather. A man of strong faith, he was a member of York Center United Methodist Church. He enjoyed watching OSU football and basketball games, as well as the Cincinnati Reds.
He was born on July 27, 1927, in Union County, to the late Arch and Vera (Southard) Smith. In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by his sister, Donna Dell (Smith) Ballinger.
He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Ellen (Decker) Smith, whom he married on Feb. 28, 1954, at Silver Creek Methodist Church near Kenton, and she survives in West Mansfield; children, Melissa (Steve) Walker of North Lewisburg and Tim (Greta) Smith of Richwood; grandchildren, Gene (Chelsa) McFarland, Tyler Walker, BJ (Jonda) Smith, Matthew (Tiffany) Smith and Kelsey and Kyle Grose; great-grandchildren; Dominick and Aiden McFarland and Reagan, Brock, Grayson, Hayden and Jackson Smith; step-sisters, Louise (Robert) Gray and Linda Clemans; and nieces and nephews.
The Rev. Jeff Waeger will officiate funeral services at 11 a.m. Thursday at York Center United Methodist Church, 28170 Route 739, in West Mansfield. Burial will follow at York Cemetery. Friends may call from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Wilson Funeral Home, 222 W. Center St., in West Mansfield.
Memorial contributions may be made to York Center United Methodist Church.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.wilsonfuneralhomesinc.com.