David N. Smith

He was born in Springfield on June 11, 1941, the son of Neeley and Mary Alice (Jacobs) Smith. David married his high school sweetheart, Mary Anne Heward, on June 2, 1979. Together, they raised a blended family and were inseparable soulmates.

David graduated from Springfield High School. In 1958, he joined the U.S. Army and proudly served his country in Korea. David worked for Ivan Sweeney, and later, Jack Stoldt Auto Service for over 30 years. In retirement, he could be found in his garage working on cars for himself and others. He was a member of Vintage Times Car Club and was well known for his trade in rebuilding street rods.

He was the epitome of a self-made, hardworking man. Self-taught, he was perpetually working on a new project for himself or his bride, but he unfailingly made time for everyone else’s projects. Especially, the never-ending calls from friends and family for help with everything under the sun, whether it was electrical, plumbing, auto repair, or building. He was truly a jack of all trades, and, when presented with a project, he would say, “That ain’t no big deal.”

David was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Marge Rice, Marion Berry, and Beverly Lamsargis; and grandson, Zachary Smith.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Anne Smith; brother, Jim (Diane) Burnett of Springfield; children, Laura Antenan of Springfield, David and Michael Smith of Texas, Julia (Thomas) Southwood of Springfield, Mark (Deanna Howard) Smith of Springfield, and Christine “Tina” (Rick) Smith Rhone of Springfield; grandchildren, Kaley Grounds, Conner (Nicole) Ryan, Megan Smith, Jaycie Rhone, Mason Southwood, Christian (Erin Truax) Smith, Maria Southwood, and Keegan Rhone; and great-grandchildren, Raelynn, Alaia, Oliver, and Kai.

Visitation: Family will receive friends from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on March 24, 2026, at Butler Funeral Home- Springfield, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield.

Funeral Ceremony: 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at Butler Funeral Home- Springfield, with Pastor Donn Stephens officiating.

Burial will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park.

Memorial contributions may be made to American Cancer Society.