Donald R. Smith, 80, was born January 15, 1941, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He was the beloved son of the late Henry Bethune and Olive (Smith) Barnes. Don as he affectionately known, departed this life on September 4, 2021, at the Southwestern Veterans Center, Pittsburgh, PA.
Donald was one of the founding members of Smyrna Missionary Baptist Church in Columbus, Ohio, under the leadership of the founding Pastor, Bishop Fred L. Marshall. Donald served as a Trustee and Deacon. He was also a member of St. Joseph’s Masonic Lodge #303, Columbus, Ohio.
Donald served in the United States Marine Corps in the Philippines, Taiwan, and Japan. While stationed overseas, he took up boxing and became a prize fighter. He was no stranger to hard work, a man of many talents. He was employed at the Columbus Public Library (main branch) and Ohio State University as an Environmental Engineer. He also worked as an auto body shop repairman at Robinson’s Body Shop, car detailer at Ben’s Car Wash, and furniture maker at Value City Furniture.
Donald was a father figure for many, but first and foremost, he loved his daughter Kazaya, who he referred to as his one and only. He had a great love for soul and gospel music. He loved the blues; his favorite two artists were James Brown and Al Green. Donald was an avid reader, he loved reading the bible, especially studying the Old and New Testament. His interests in genealogy, caused him to research both the Randolph and Johnson family history. Uncle Don-Don or “Trouble Shooter” as he was called, was a favorite among his nieces and nephews and could be found giving them wisdom and talking about sports and music.
Donald is survived by his daughter, Kazaya Henderson of Duquesne, PA; brother, George (Rosanne) Barnes, Jr. of New Castle; nephews, George Barnes III and Jordan Barnes; former wife, Barbara Smith; stepsons, Ronald Browder, Roderick (Karen) Browder of Grove City; 7 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren; extended relatives and friends; especially Timothy “Timbo” Johnson for your loving care.
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