Donald M. Smith Sr.

June 12, 1944 – November 20, 2025
Age 81

 

Visitation:

Sunday, November 23, 2025

2:00 pm – 6:00 pm

 

Funeral Mass:

Monday, November 24, 2025
9:45 am

Saint Raymond RC Church
263 Atlantic Avenue
East Rockaway, New York
11518

 

Interment:

Calverton National Cemetery
210 Princeton Boulevard
Calverton, New York
11933

Donald M. Smith Sr. was born on June 12^th, 1944 to Stephen and Nancy Smith. The youngest of four, he grew up in Floral Park, NY with his siblings Stephen, Nancy, and Roy. After attending Our Lady of Victory Catholic School until 8^th grade, he went on to Floral Park Memorial High School, where he excelled as an athlete in track competing on the state level. After graduating in 1963, he was drafted into the army and served during the Vietnam War from 1965-1967. When his service was completed, he returned to Floral Park and began the adjustment to life after war. His love of coin collecting eventually led him into that field as a salesman. It was in this position at Gimbels Department store where he met the love of his life, Philippa Mangano. After dating for a couple of years, they were married on June 14^th 1970. The welcomed daughter Dawn in 1972, Pamela in 1975, Donald Jr. in 1978, and James in 1979. During those years, he worked as a security guard at Hofstra University and later at JFK Airport until his retirement in 2013. He became a grandfather in 2003 with the birth of Lauren, followed by Katherine, Caroline, Victoria, and Ava. In February 2014, his “Angel” Phillippa passed away and he spent the rest of his time cherishing her memory and longing for the day they would be reunited. He was a proud husband, father, grandfather, and veteran. His joy was spending time with his family and he was filled with kindness, humor, and love until the very end.