Major Richard David Smith
Major Richard David Smith
Major Richard David Smith, 96, of West Ellicott, passed away Thursday, September 19, 2024 at UPMC Chautauqua in Jamestown. Richard was the husband of Margaret P. Smith, who passed away January 22, 2023. Richard was born in Diamond, Pennsylvania on March 23, 1928, the son of Irish immigrants, Clarence and Genevieve Thompson Smith.
Richard graduated from Jamestown High School in 1946 and was senior class president. He attended Jamestown Community College and graduated from Empire State Military College.
Richard held federal and state commissions in infantry and armor, retiring from the US Army after 27 years. In addition to being a citizen soldier, Richard spent a long career in the specialty metal manufacturing field, as owner/ partner with his brother Marion at All Metal in Jamestown, as well as evening supervisor at Jamestown Metal and Arro Tool & Die in Lakewood. Richard was very active in the local community as a life member of the Reserve Officer Association. He was instrumental in the establishment of Southwestern Chapter 45, serving twice as local chapter president. He served two terms as chairman of Thule Lodge 127 VOA, was a life member of the Thule men’s degree team and was a member of the past president’s club.
Richard was a life member of the Moose Lodge, a 66-year member of the American Legion Post number 149, 44-year member of the Lakewood Rod & Gun Club, and a member of the Jamestown High School 100 Member Club.
Richard’s family, friends and neighbors will remember his immaculate lawn, home and cars, his wit, his keen observation of local, state, and federal governance, and his patronage of the Seneca tribe.
Richard is survived by children: Richard Smith, Vicki (George) Watkins, Scott (Jennifer) Smith; grandchildren: Jesse Watkins, Derek (Margaret)Watkins, Jennifer (Erik) Hodgeman, Lieutenant Colonel Rudy (Myung Hee) Smith, Katelyn Smith, Allie (Will) Galvin, Casey Smith and Max Smith; great-grandchildren: Alex and Grace Watkins, Brett and Marley Hodgeman, Fiona Smith, Lena Hippen-Smith, Avery Smith and Grayson Galvin; and a sister, Rose (Bob) Gray.
In lieu of flowers, tributes may be directed to the Army Community Service, 4330 Conway Rd., Fort Drum, NY 13602-5286.
To leave a condolence, please visit www.lind funeralhome.com.