David S. Smith

Born June 18, 1913 in Mercersburg, he was the son of the late David Seibert Smith Sr. and Nellie Branthaver Smith.

A 1932 graduate of the Mercersburg Academy and a lifelong resident of Mercersburg, Mr. Smith was well known for his stories, humor, devotion to his family, and service to the community.

Mr. Smith served in the Army during World War II and was a Prisoner of War in Europe for 5 months. He was awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart, and published his memoirs of the War for his family. He belonged to American Legion Post 517 and served as Post Commander in 1958.

A farmer in his early life, Mr. Smith worked as a mechanic for Grossnickel Chevrolet and Gayman Chevrolet in Mercersburg and retired from JC Penney Auto Service in Chambersburg. A lifetime member of Trinity United Church of Christ, he taught Sunday school for many years and was also active with the Boy Scouts and ARC.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 69 years, Ruth Heeter Smith. Surviving are a daughter, Bonalyn Kirsch (James) of Naselle, WA and eight sons: Ronald Smith (Sally) of Barboursville, VA, Allan Smith (Jackie) of Coraopolis, David Smith III (Beth) of Slinger, WI, Curtis Smith (Melissa) of Pueblo West, CO; and Paul Smith (Kathleen), Stephen Smith (Christel), Lionel Smith, and Brian Smith (Barbara) all of Mercersburg. He is also survived by 24 grandchildren and 29 great-grandchildren.

In addition to his wife, Mr. Smith was preceded in death by a daughter, Dee Smith, a granddaughter, Linzi Smith, an infant brother, William Smith, a sister, Helen Ross, two half-brothers, and four half-sisters.

Mr. Smith requested that there be no funeral. Memorial contributions may be made to ARC of Franklin-Fulton, 4351 Philadelphia Ave., Chambersburg, PA 17202 or to the Wounded Warrior Project, 7020 AC Skinner Pkwy, Ste 100, Jacksonville, FL.

The family wishes to thank Janet and Charlotte from Guardian In Home Services for their excellent care.

Arrangements by Auer Cremation Services of PA, Inc., Harrisburg.