David Smith Obituary

David Richard Smith, a devoted husband, father and grandfather, passed away peacefully on March 1, 2025. He was 82 years old.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Angelo and Hazel Smith.

He is survived by his wife, Rita Harvey Smith; his daughters, Gina Haug, Ginger Smith and Stephanie Castjohn; his cherished grandchildren, Kelli Santos, Anders Haug, Tori Clark, Alex Haug, Kerri Kelly and Chase Castjohn; his cherished great grandchildren, Michael (Tripp) Santos III, Mateo Anders Santos,  Anna Clark, Miley Kelly, Marley Kelly and Jaxxon Kelly; and his siblings, Darryl Smith, Frankie McDonald and Danny Smith. 

A proud veteran, David served his country in the US Navy aboard the USS Ranger. He spent 22 years with Mississippi Power Company and later retired in 1992. David was member of Cornerstone Baptist Church in Pass Christian.

David was a man of many passions. He found solace and joy in the outdoors, particularly fishing and hunting. He was a staunch advocate for Coastal Conservation, believing deeply in the preservation of our natural resources. For many years, David was a respected member of the Joppa Shrine, where he found camaraderie and fellowship with the Masonic Order. He also coached for the Orange Grove Softball Association from about 1980-1988.

David will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his service to his country and community and his unwavering love of the outdoors.

A funeral service will be held Monday, March 10, 2025 at 12:00 p.m. where friends may visit one hour prior to the service at the O’Neal Road location of Bradford O’Keefe Funeral Home in Gulfport. Interment will be at Biloxi National Cemetery at 1:30 p.m. with honors by the US Navy.

Bradford O’Keefe Funeral Home, O’Neal Road, Gulfport, is honored to serve the family of David Richard Smith.