Mr. David S. "DS" Smith

UTICA – With his loving family by his side and a "God's got me" attitude, Mr. David S. "DS" Smith went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, November 19, 2023, at the age of 65. Born in Utica on April 7, 1958, David was the son of Ulysses Smith and the late Leola (Johnson) Smith. He also shared memories of his biological father, the late Samuel Jones. David was raised in Utica and attended local schools. David once held a machinist position at Kelsey Hayes. Skilled and excellent with his hands, he held various positions in the field of construction. He was very handy and was always willing to assist his loved ones. David was loving and kind, and his world revolved around his family. He always cared for and loved everyone he encountered. He cherished his beautiful family that he would entice to spoil him, often! In his early years, David was a skilled Golden Gloves boxer, which was one of his proudest accomplishments. He also loved the game of football as he enjoyed watching his nephew and grandsons play pop warner and rooting for the Bills on Sundays. David was very spiritual, holding the Lord close to his heart throughout his life. David is survived by his father, Ulysses Smith and his wife Marie (Blackshear) Smith. He will be remembered by his uncle, Johnny Johnson; and siblings, Janie Allen (Dennis Allen), Michael Smith (Stephanie Smith), Ulysses "Pookie" Smith, Jr., and James "Diamond" Smith (Tammy Carpenter). He is also survived by his children, Franrena Rucker-Jones (Charles Jones), Whitney Camby (Roger Camby), Ashley Lasher (Lamont Mills), Ryan Maddox, and David Smith, III. He cherished the memory of his daughter, Holly Marie Smith, who became an angel on March 6, 1989; and an infant son who passed away at birth. David’s life was further enriched by his grandchildren, Marcus H Stanley, Na’jah Jones, Charles Jones, III, Kamari Jones, Sharena Jones; Keondre Patterson, Brayden Camby; Curtis Lee, Jacob Mills, Melody Mills; Ryan Maddox, Jr., Legend Maddox, and Myangle Maddox; and his great-grandchild, Aziah Maddox. David also leaves behind a host of many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins; and very special friends, Georgie, Angie, and Tonya. David was preceded by his sister, Patricia Smith; and his brother, Anthony “Sweet Tea” Smith (Jodie Smith). David was additionally preceded in death by his beloved grandparents, Isadore and Lee Mulvina (Miller) Johnson. The family extends their gratitude to David’s oncologist, Dr. DeSai, for his care and compassion. Visitation will be held on Sunday, November 26, 2023, from 3:00-4:00 p.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South Street, corner of Hammond Ave. David’s Home Going Service and Celebration of Life will commence at 4:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment will take place in New Forest Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Mr. David S. "DS" Smith

April 7, 1958 - November 19, 2023