Donald Lee Smithers

Donald Lee Smithers, devoted Christian, respected community leader, veteran, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, mentor, and friend, passed peacefully on July 15, 2026, in Sugar Land, Texas, at the age of 89.

Born on March 7, 1937, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Don was raised in Moore, Oklahoma, where he became an avid OU Sooners fan. He developed a strong faith, work ethic, and servant’s heart that would guide him throughout his life. He married his high school sweetheart, Merle Sechrist, and together they built a loving family and shared a lifetime of devotion to one another.

Following his high school graduation, Don answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Air Force. He was stationed in Guam during the closing period of the Korean Conflict and continued his military service for many years in the Air National Guard, eventually attaining the rank of Chief Master Sergeant and serving as Senior Enlisted Advisor for the Texas Air National Guard. Among his many awards and decorations were the Meritorious Service Medal, the Air Force Commendation Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster, the Air Force Achievement Medal, and the Lone Star Distinguished Service Medal. Don was inducted into the Texas Military Hall of Honor in 1993.

Don enjoyed a distinguished career spanning more than 30 years with AT&T/Southwestern Bell, beginning in Oklahoma. In 1971, he transferred to Houston and moved his family to Fort Bend County. After retirement, he continued to share his expertise as a telecommunications consultant before becoming an important contributor to Fort Bend County’s Transportation Department.

Don became deeply involved in civic and community affairs in Sugar Land and Fort Bend County. He served two terms on the Sugar Land City Council, including three years as Mayor Pro Tem, and worked tirelessly to help shape the growth and success of the city. He served on and chaired numerous Sugar Land and Fort Bend County committees.

His commitment to service extended far beyond elected office. He was a Past Worshipful Master of the Sugar Land Masonic Lodge, a Shriner, and a member of the American Legion. Don was a lifetime member of the Fort Bend County Fair Association and a Lifetime Committeeman for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, where he served on the Fort Bend Go Texan Rodeo Committee. He was also active in the Chamber of Commerce, Rotary International—where he was honored as a Paul Harris Fellow—and numerous other Sugar Land and Fort Bend County organizations.

Above all else, Don was a man of faith. He was ordained as a deacon in Oklahoma and was a longtime member of Sugar Creek Baptist Church. His life reflected the teachings of Christ, and he was a steady example of faithfulness to his family, church, and community.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Grace Cothern Smithers; his beloved wife, Merle Sechrist Smithers; his great-grandchild, Noah Ledger; his brothers, Joe and Harold Smithers; his nephew, Ron Smithers; and his cherished dog, Ernie.

He is survived by his children, Nancy (Kevin) Draper, Donna (Kevin) Foley, Joyce (Doug) Keith, and Gene (Jennifer) Smithers. He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren, Travis (Dallas) Ledger, Lauren (Ryan) Hewlett, Melissa Draper, and Derek Draper; his treasured great-grandchildren, Hayes, Reid, Blake, and Layne Ledger, and Palmer Hewlett; his nephews, Joe and David Smithers; and his brothers-in-law, Ronald McDaniel and Jimmy Humphrey.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Becky Humalainen and Don’s many friends at Landon Ridge, whose friendship and companionship brought him great joy during his final years.

Don’s legacy is one of faith, leadership, service, and love. He will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to God, his family, his community, and his country. His example of humble leadership and Christian service will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Don’s memory to the Sugar Land Cultural Arts Foundation or to a charity of your choice.

Family will receive visitors at The Settegast-Kopf Company at Sugar Creek, 15015 Southwest Fwy, Sugar Land, TX 77478, US, on July 29, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Sugar Creek Baptist Church, 13223 Southwest Fwy, Sugar Land, TX 77478, US, on July 30, 2026, at 10:00 am.

A Military Graveside Service will take place at Houston National Cemetery, 10410 Veterans Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77038, US, on July 30, 2026, at 2:00 pm.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." — Matthew 25:23