Donald R. Smitley

Donald R. Smitley, Sr. of Floyds Knobs, Indiana, passed away on October 7, 2024, at the age of 87. He was born in Riddle, Indiana on July 22, 1937 to Allen D. Smitley and Mildred Faye Smitley. He attended Greenville Elementary and New Albany High School.

On April 9, 1966, he was married to Marilyn Lois O’Byrne. Together they enjoyed travelling and were blessed to visit many locations throughout the U.S. and abroad. They experienced many fun adventures until her death, on March 2, 2018.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Dennis Smitley and Richard Smitley and grandson Rex England. He is survived by his children, sons Donald Smitley Jr. (Connie), Curtis Blaine Smitley, Patrick Smitley (Christie), his daughters Angela Smitley and Penny Long (Chris) and his grandchildren, Stephen Smitley, Sydney Wright and Carson Long.

Following high school, he began his career at LG&E Cane Run Station. His time there was interrupted by time serving his country in the U.S. Army in Korea. He returned to LG&E, where he became a valued member of the workforce, taking a variety of progressively more responsible positions. He stayed for his entire working life, retiring after 52 years. His position at retirement was an instructor, teacher, and writer for the operation manuals used by the company. He was called back from retirement to offer consulting services to LG&E.

Following his official retirement, he continued his father’s business, Smitley’s Lawn and Garden Repair. He loved to help repair any kind of small engine, and he ran the business successfully into his 80s.

In addition to his career at LG&E, he served as an ordained minister of Advent Christian Church in New Albany, which he did entirely as a selfless volunteer. He read his Bible daily. His service to God and his community mattered deeply to him and fulfilled his purpose on Earth.

He was a friend to all, who never had an enemy and was known for his dry sense of humor. He believed in an honest day’s work, loved to restore vehicles and tinker in his shop, and enjoyed quality time with family. He was faithful to God until the end.

In accordance with his wishes, cremation was chosen and a celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, December 7th, 1pm to 4pm, at the Silver Lakes Clubhouse, 5935 US 31 E, Clarksville, IN 47129.