David Smith Obituary

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of David Hoke Smith, Sr., a beloved father, devoted grandfather, a respected member of the Newnan community, and a great man. David was born on August 8, 1941, in Newnan, Georgia, where he spent his life serving others and nurturing his family whom he loved with his whole heart. He departed this world peacefully on July 7, 2025, at the age of 83, leaving behind a legacy of love, honor, integrity, and dedication.David dedicated 36 years to the Newnan Police Department, retiring as a Lieutenant, where he earned the respect and admiration of his colleagues and the community he served. He was a proud member of Coweta Masonic Lodge #60 for over 62 years, having served as Worshipful Master three times and Secretary for 28 years, demonstrating his commitment to fellowship, dedication, service, and a profound love of the fraternity. David was also a dedicated employee at McKoon Funeral Home for over 50 years, where he was loved by many.
He was a proud graduate of the Western High School Class of 1960, where he played baseball and other sports. He always said that he enjoyed high school so much that he stayed an extra year! His love of baseball would stay with him his entire life. When his sons got old enough to play themselves, he began coaching with Coweta County Little League Baseball. He coached for many years and made a very positive impact on the lives of countless kids who would never forget the sacrifices he made to invest in them. He loved watching the Atlanta Braves all his life. He also enjoyed spending time at the Grantville Senior Center playing games and fellowshipping with friends who will deeply miss his jovial presence.A lifelong member of Andrews Chapel United Methodist Church, David found strength and solace in his faith after accepting Jesus Christ as his Savior at a young age at Arnco Baptist Church under the ministry of the late Reverend Travis Eidson. His faith guided him throughout his life and he lived with an overflowing servant's heart. He was very well known for his compelling storytelling, with impeccable details, and an infectious sense of humor, which often included a little nonsense! He cherished the time spent with family and friends, creating countless memories that will forever linger in the hearts of those who loved him. David leaves behind three sons, David Hoke (Jill) Smith, Jr., Donny (Alison) Smith, and Danny (Mandy) Smith; a beloved sister, Margaret Shaddix; and a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren who will miss him deeply. His grandchildren, Will (Nicole) Smith, Andrew (Riley) Smith, Eli (Shelby) Smith, Alyssa (Eric) Arrowood, Macy (Tyler) Steadham, Chase Brown, Kristin (Chris) Neely, Brett Smith, Austin (Autumn) Duncan, Griffin (Sara) Duncan, Katelyn Smith, Jackson Smith, and Kelsey Smith, along with eleven great-grandchildren, who will carry forward his spirit and stories for generations to come.
The family will welcome friends for visitation at McKoon Funeral Home on Thursday, July 10, 2025, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. A funeral service to celebrate David's life will be held at the McKoon Funeral Home chapel on Friday, July 11, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. with his three sons officiating. Interment will follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, 656 Roscoe Road, Newnan, GA. Masonic Rites and the Newnan Police Department Honor Guard will bestow honors.As we gather to honor the incredible life of David Hoke Smith, Sr., we remember a man whose life was a testament to service, integrity, and love. He will be profoundly missed, but his spirit will live on in the countless stories and memories he leaves behind.David was preceded in death by: father, James Hoke Smith; Mother, Irene Tarleton Smith; siblings, Jimmie Smith, Jane Dalton, and Billy Smith.
Rather than flowers, the family respectfully requests that memorial contributions be made to either the Georgia Masonic Children's Home, https://masonichomeofgeorgia.com/, or to his beloved Coweta Masonic Lodge #60, 60 Sewell Road, Newnan, GA 30263.
Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.mckoon.com
McKoon Funeral Home & Crematory (770) 253-4580.