Don Lee Smith

Don Lee Smith, born on January 11, 1943, in Garden City, Missouri, passed away on June 19, 2025, in Adair, Oklahoma. He lived a life marked by love, devotion to family, and a steadfast commitment to his career and community.

Don was an accomplished aircraft mechanic, dedicating numerous years of his professional life to American Airlines. His passion for airplanes was evident, and he took great pride in his work, contributing to the safety and reliability of air travel for many. Beyond his career, Don's interests extended to gardening, which he enjoyed immensely. He also had a significant commitment to community service, having served as a disaster relief volunteer. Don was a member of the Adair First Baptist Church, and a former member of Pleasant Hope Baptist Church where he served as a Deacon.

A life well-lived, Don's proudest accomplishments included marrying Ruth Ann Helmuth on March 27, 1970, in Adair, Oklahoma. He exemplified the values of faith and family, having accepted Christ as his savior at the age of twelve. His love for his grandchildren and great-grandchildren was profound, and they brought him immense joy throughout his life.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Ruth Ann Smith, of the home; his sons, Darrell Smith and wife Quannah of Adair, OK, and Tim Smith and wife Lisa of Chelsea, OK; brother, Maurice Smith of Goshen, IN; his sisters, Betty Mullet and husband John of Goshen, IN, and Lois King and her husband Calvin of Gainsville, GA; along with his grandchildren, Wyatt and Aubrey Smith of Canyon, TX, Joe Smith and fiancée Hannah Taylor of Welling, OK, Megan and Jake Perrier of Adair, OK, and Gus and Hannah Smith of Adair, OK; and five great-grandchildren.

Don is preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Inah (King) Smith, and his twin sister, Donna Yoder.

Funeral services for Don will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, June 23, 2025, at the Adair First Baptist Church with Pastor Sam Wilson and Pastor Carl Helmuth officiating. Interment will follow in the Zion Mennonite Cemetery with Darrell Smith, Tim Smith, Wyatt Smith, Joe Smith, Gus Smith, and Jake Perrier serving as casket bearers. Honorary casket bearers include Oliver Alan, Lincoln Perrier, and Harrison Perrier. A visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., Sunday, June 22, 2025, at Shipman's Funeral Home. To leave a personal message, please visit his guestbook at www.shipmansfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Shipman's Funeral & Cremation Service of Pryor.