Duane Scott Smith

Born in Lexington, Kentucky, Duane was the son of Phyllis Smith and the late Clifford Smith. He was a proud 1987 graduate of Tates Creek High School and continued his education at the University of Kentucky’s School of Engineering. While at UK, Duane was an active member of the Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity. After graduating in 1991, he brought his engineering expertise to Northern Virginia, beginning a distinguished 35-year career as a Senior Patent Examiner at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

While Duane’s professional life was rooted in the precision of innovation, his personal life was defined by adventure and community. Alongside his devoted wife, Katie, Duane was a constant traveler, always seeking the sun at the beach or exploring new horizons with friends.

Locally, Duane was a familiar face at the National Zoo, where he shared his time and passion as a dedicated volunteer. However, he may be most fondly remembered by neighbors and friends for the legendary Halloween parties he and Katie hosted. Their elaborate, hand-crafted costumes, including Raggedy Anna and Andy and Heat and Cold Miser, were the centerpiece of the annual celebration, a testament to Duane’s creativity and his love for bringing people together.

Duane is survived by his loving wife, Katie, of Falls Church; his mother, Phyllis Smith; his brother, Eric (Kathryn) Smith, and nephew, Owain, of Southbury, CT. He also leaves behind his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Frank and Charlene Kane of Cheverly, MD; sister-in-law, Meghan of Boca Raton, FL; and a wide circle of aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who will miss his warmth and wit.

Service Information: A memorial service will be held at 10 AM on April 13, 2026, at Murphy’s Funeral Home in Falls Church, VA.