David E Goldsmith

David Eugene Goldsmith was born April 21, 1940 to the late James Emory Goldsmith Sr. and the late Ida Reid in Uniontown, PA. He went home to be with the Lord on November 28, 2025. He provided his family, friends and acquaintances with so much joy, laughter and compassion for 85 heartfelt years.

Mr. Goldsmith worked for the Library of Congress as a computer programmer from 1961 to 2001. While working there in 1963, he was drafted into the U.S. Army. He served his country with dedication and versatility, working as an administrative specialist, a military police officer and a food service specialist. His service reflected the same steady commitment and discipline that guided his life. He was recalled to Active Duty in support of Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm and ultimately retiring honorably in April 2000.

Beyond his military career, he lived with a vibrant spirit and a love for movement, music, and the outdoors. He enjoyed roller skating, dancing, and singing, often bringing joy to those around him. An avid fitness and sports enthusiast, he could often be found jogging, riding his bicycle, or following his favorite sports including basketball, football, and tennis.

David was a man of tremendous faith. He loved the Lord- his religious beliefs formed his character and were instrumental in the way he lived his life. At Asbury United Methodist Church in Washington D.C. he served as an usher and a member of the Sunday School class. He went on to serve as an usher at Cascade United Methodist Church in Atlanta and was also a member of the choir. Most recently, at First Mount Zion Baptist Church in Dumfries, Virginia he sang in the male chorus.

He cherished adventure and simple pleasures with his family. Trips to Disney brought him happiness, as did time spent in nature. Some of his favorite memories were made while hiking in Washington, D.C., at Rock Creek Park and Great Falls, places where he found peace and connection always with his family.

His life was marked by curiosity, energy, and a generous spirit. He will be remembered with love and gratitude by all who knew him.

David is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Shirley Ann Goldsmith; daughter, Marrisa L. Chives and her husband, Wendell; granddaughter, Alaina Clarke; brother, Kenneth Goldsmith and sister, Joan Goldsmith; sisters-in-law, Helen Buchanan, Martha Foster, Mae Jones, Olivia Ware, Georgia Goldsmith and Helen Goldsmith; brother-in-law, Wheeler Ware and a host of loving cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ida and James Goldsmith; brothers, James Goldsmith Jr, Ron Goldsmith, Glenn E. Goldsmith Sr; sister, Brenda M. Goldsmith and sister-in-law, Kathleen Goldsmith.

The family will receive friends at Whitley Garner Funeral Home Saturday, December 6 from 11:30 am to 12:00 pm. Funeral services will be held in the chapel of the Funeral Home at 12:00 pm followed by a repast in the Whitney Garner Legacy room. Committal services will be held at Georgia National Cemetery Monday, December 8 at 10:30 am.

The family would like to thank the staff at Harmony House and the hospice staff for their care and a special thank you to the hospice chaplain, Brett Ellington for his comfort during this challenging time.

Floral contributions may be ordered through our recommended florist, Frances Florist by calling them at 770-949-8711 or visiting them at 12641 Veterans Memorial HWY Douglasville, GA 30134.

Whitley Garner at Rosehaven is honored to be entrusted with the arrangements of David Eugene Goldsmith.