Donald Henry Smith, Jr.

Donald Henry Smith, Jr. was born in Mobile on June 17, 1934 and died peacefully at home on January 10, 2025.Apart from four years at Auburn and two years in the Navy, he lived in Mobile all his life, working with his extended family at Smith’s Bakery and playing an active role in the community for over four decades. A lifelong outdoorsman, he was an avid birdwatcher, an accomplished pilot and fisherman, and a crack shot, known for a long dynasty of beautifully trained hunting dogs. He will also be remembered for his love of opera, his wisdom and generosity, his gift for language, and his inexhaustible trove of stories and jokes.Donnie’s parents were Donald Henry and Genevieve Leigh Smith. He is survived by Jane Houser (Mickey) Smith, his wife of over 67 years, and their three daughters: Lillian Smith Clementi, now residing with her husband Vito in Arlington, Virginia; Genevieve Norvelle Smith, of Mobile; and Frances Houser Smith Schulz, who also lives in Mobile with her husband Michael. Franney and Michael gave him two grandchildren, Jane Frances Houser (Janie) Schulz and Donald Smith Schulz. Donnie’s sister Jane (Jennie) Smith Sheldon died in 1994, followed by their brother Norvelle Leigh (Gus) Smith in 2024, but he is survived by his brother-in-law Paul Sheldon, his sister-in-law Teresa Smith, and a large, colorful tribe of nieces, nephews and cousins.Family and friends are invited to celebrate Donnie’s life with us on Friday, January 17 at Ascension Funeral Home, 1016 Hillcrest Road in Mobile. A brief memorial service will be held at 4:00 pm, followed by visitation with the family until 6:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, please make a memorial contribution in Donnie’s name to the charity of your choice.