Donald Christopher Smith

Donald Christopher Smith, a loving husband, stepfather, grandfather, and dedicated first responder, passed away peacefully on April 16, 2023, in Calhoun, Georgia. Born on November 7, 1971, in Dalton, Georgia, Donald was known for his generosity, selflessness, and unwavering commitment to his family, friends, and community.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Reverend Claude Martin Smith Jr. and Carolyn Joyce Smith; and his aunts and uncles, Junior and Winnel dean, Samuel and Dean Vance, Jimmy and Carolyn Coleman, and Faye Vance.

Donald is survived by his devoted wife, Lynn Yvonne Smith, and his loving stepdaughters, Samantha Ann Dixon and Nicolette Yvonne Dixon. He was a proud stepfather to Tad Dixon and a doting grandfather to Jon Tate Williams. Donald's memory will also be cherished by his sister, Sherry (Michael) Reagan; his nieces and nephews, Kevin (Sarah) Burson, Andrew (Carissa) Burson, Christopher Burson, and Cole Reagan, as well as his great-nieces and great-nephews, Sarah Burson, Callender Burson, Gracie Burson, Autumn Burson, Nevaeh Burson, Mason Burson, and Brookston Burson. His beloved fur baby, Tailia Rose Smith, will miss him dearly.

Throughout his life, Donald was dedicated to helping others and making a difference in his community. He was a first responder, always ready to lend a hand in times of need. His commitment to service extended to his professional life, where he obtained his CDLs for trucking, ensuring the safe and efficient transportation of goods across the country.

Donald's love for his family and friends was evident in everything he did. He enjoyed spending time with his loved ones, creating lasting memories and sharing in their joys and sorrows. His generosity and selflessness were hallmarks of his character, and he was always willing to lend a helping hand or offer a shoulder to lean on.

In his spare time, Donald enjoyed a variety of hobbies and interests. He was an avid outdoorsman, appreciating the beauty of nature and the tranquility it provided. Donald's passing leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. His memory will live on through the countless lives he touched and the positive impact he had on his community. His legacy of love, generosity, and selflessness will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have known him.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Donald's memory to a local first responder organization or charity of your choice. This gesture will honor Donald's lifelong dedication to helping others and making a difference in the lives of those in need.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, April 22, 2023 at 2:00 pm at Following in the Footsteps Church in Cohutta, Georgia with Reverend Timmy Turnipseed and Reverend Bradley Clayton officiating. The family will be receiving friends from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm prior to the service.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the medical staff and caregivers who provided comfort and support to Donald during his final days. Your kindness and compassion will never be forgotten.

You are invited to share a personal memory of Donald or your condolences with his family at his online memorial located at www.companionfunerals.com. Companion Funeral Home of Cleveland and the Cody family are honored to assist the family with these arrangements.