Mr. David Smith

April 11, 1933 - January 9, 2021

***ATTN: FRIENDS & FAMILY*** ****MT. ZION BAPTIST CHURCH IS HOSTING & DIRECTING PRIVATE SERVICES FOR THE FAMILY OF Mr. David Smith AT THE CHURCH TO BE HELD 11:00 a.m. SATURDAY, JANUARY 16, 2021 (TODAY) ****ATTENTION TO THOSE WHO WOULD LIKE TO VIEW SERVICES ONLINE YOU HAVE (3) OPTIONS TO CHOOSE FROM: 1. Go to Mt. Zion Baptist Church's website at: mtzionkalamazoo.org -Or 2. Go to YouTube and type in mtzionbaptistkalamazoo -Or 3. Go to Facebook, if you have a facebook account. after logging in, type in Myzionbaptistkalamazoo ***FOR THOSE THAT DO NOT USE THE INTERNET, YOU MAY LISTEN TO THE SERVICE ON YOUR PHONE BY CALLING: (269) 206-9635 ___________________________________________ Scroll of Life for David Smith An honorable, wise and faith-filled husband, father, grandfather, uncle, cousin and friend are just a few words that describe Mr. David Smith. Born on April 11, 1933 in St. Petersburg, Florida, David was the youngest son born to the union of the late Celestine Haws-Barnes and Robert Smith Sr. A quiet, conservative, and meek man, David loved spending time with his older brothers. In search of better opportunities, David and his brother Robert moved with their mother from New York to Kalamazoo, Michigan in 1942. David attended Roosevelt elementary and middle schools, before graduating from Central High School in 1951. Raised on the importance of strong work ethic, David took two jobs after completion of high school, one at Miller Lumbar Company and another with the VA Hospital. 1952 proved to be a significant year in David’s life as he married the love of his life, Jacqueline Johnson. To this union three children were born. That year, David was also hired at KVP Sutherland (now known as James River Company) in the Powerhouse. One of the first longstanding Black men within the company, David quickly gained seniority and respect for his kind, helpful and respectful personality. With a leadership change in the early 70’s, KVP became The Brown Company. As a result of these changes, after more than two decades of service, David decided it was time to develop his skills elsewhere. The Upjohn Company (now known as Pfizer) was a well-known pharmaceutical company with opportunities for growth both experientially and financially. David took an entry level position and to no one’s surprise, he was promoted after two weeks on the job, eventually becoming a Chemical Operator. After 18 years of gainful employment and faithful service, David retired from the company in 1992. One of David’s favorite past times throughout his life was playing golf. Learning the game as a young adult, David played almost daily; perfecting his game at well-known golf courses throughout Michigan and in other states. He became a member of the Mall City League, where he played for over two decades; and, alongside his best friend Gerald Jones, he won the league championship several times. David’s passion for golf was infectious to his family. He and his daughter Doreen often played as a father/daughter team, winning many tournaments. In their retirement David and Jackie enjoyed traveling to Florida during the winter months to play golf, while spending time with his family. More than golf, David’s great love was for his family. “Papa”, as David was affectionally called, was adored by his children and grandchildren. He was present for all their events, big and small, including first days of school, concerts, sporting events, birthdays, graduations and weddings. When no one else was present, if “papa” knew, he was there (rain, snow or sunshine), even if he had to walk. As his grandchildren and great grandchildren grew and developed interests of their own, David put his trips to Florida on hold to be sure he could attend every game. Papa treated everyone, family or not, with the same unconditional love. He had no “in-laws”, everyone was family to him; and, he made every person he encountered feel special. Many noteworthy things have been shared about this amazing husband, father and grandfather. However, the most important to note, is not only that he accepted Christ as his personal Savior, but that he truly lived out his personal relationship with the Lord. While golf was his passion and family his love, David testified openly that his relationship with God was more important; and, worshipping God with his church family became his Sunday joy. Even as his health began to decline, he made his way to church and fulfillment hour every week until the COVID-19 pandemic closed the church. David accepted the hand of God and left his earthen vessel on Saturday, January 9, 2021. He is preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Robert Smith Jr. and Henry Smith. He leaves to celebrate and honor his memory, his wife of 68 years, Jacqueline; three devoted children: Reverend Doreen (Clarence) Gardner, Dolores Smith, and David (Garrie) Smith, all of Kalamazoo, MI. A brother, John (Bebe) E. Dixison of Oceanside, California; two sisters, Barbara Barrington and Clare Brown of Tampa, Florida. Two Brothers in Law; Dennis (Myra) Johnson and Martin Johnson of Kalamazoo, MI. Seven grandchildren, one great grandson, and six great-great grandchildren; two special friends: Gerald Jones and JC Turner; as well as a host of nieces, nephews cousins and loving friends.