Maryland
Remembering Don Patrick Smith: A Legacy of Service and Community in Pensacola
In Loving Memory of Don Patrick SmithJune 13, 1939 – January 3, 2026It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Don Patrick Smith, who was born on June 13, 1939, in Washington D.C. He was the beloved…
Key points
- Don Patrick Smith passed away at the age of 86, leaving a legacy of service in Pensacola.
- He had a distinguished military career with the U.S. Navy and later worked as a pilot for major airlines.
- Visitation and funeral service will be held on January 16, 2026, at Waters & Hibbert Funeral Home.
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Don Patrick Smith, a cherished member of the Pensacola community, who left us on January 3, 2026, at the age of 86. Born on June 13, 1939, in Washington, D.C., Don was the beloved son of Don and Margaret Smith.
Growing up in Maryland and Washington, D.C., Don pursued his passion for art at Marion Junior College. His early aspiration to become a pilot led him to the U.S. Navy in 1960, after he was encouraged to consider this path by a recruiter when his math skills did not meet Air Force standards. He began his military career at Naval Air Station Pensacola, where he also met his future wife, Donna Anne Kelson, marrying her on November 24, 1962. The couple welcomed two children, son Allen Cooper Smith and daughter Kerri Marie Smith, who has since passed away.
Don’s military service was distinguished; he flew with Squadron VU 2, known for operating the F8 Crusader, and later served with VA 76 aboard the USS Enterprise during the Vietnam War, participating in Operation Linebacker I. After his active duty, he continued in the Navy Reserves, where he held the rank of Captain upon retirement in 1999.
In addition to his military accomplishments, Don enjoyed a successful career with Pan American Airlines, later transitioning to Delta Airlines, from which he retired as a Captain in 2001. His life was characterized by kindness and a deep commitment to his family and community, leaving a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.
Visitation for Don will take place on Friday, January 16, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at Waters & Hibbert Funeral Home, followed by a Funeral Service at 1:00 PM. He will be interred at Barrancas National Cemetery. The family welcomes all who knew Don to celebrate his life by sharing memories and stories. In lieu of flowers, donations to a charity of choice in Don’s honor are encouraged.
Don Patrick Smith will be deeply missed and remembered fondly in the hearts of those he touched throughout his remarkable life.
This article was produced with the assistance of AI and reviewed by our editorial team.
Based on reporting originally published by Waters & Hibbert Funeral Home (Pensacola). Read the original story.
