Pastor Donald Ray Smith, Sr.

December 26, 1940 - December 22, 2020

Pastor Donald Ray Smith, Sr., Brother Don was born in Wayne County, Kentucky to Nora and Elbert Smith. He leaves behind his wife, Elsie M. Smith of 59 years of marriage; one surviving sister, Helen Catron; four children, Michael A. Smith (Sylvia), David L. Smith (Rhonda), Donald R. Smith, Jr. (Vicky) and Lori M. Stadick (Jim). Eight grandchildren, Christopher, Gregory, Donald Tyler, Courtney, Jeremy, Brandon, Katelyn and Nathaniel; and 13 great-grandchildren with one more on the way. Don started Lighthouse Community Church in March of 1987 with 13 charter members. He worked at Stokley Van Camp for over 25 years and retired in 1990 to totally dedicate his time to his church. Don saw the church grow over 33 years to what it is today, with hundreds of members in Indianapolis. He was fully dedicated to God and his church, his wife and entire family. He devoted his life to ministering to everyone he would see, whether in the church or outside. You would never see Don without a bible tract in his front pocket. There are countless waiters, homeless, and strangers all over the world that have received a tract. He performed hundreds of funerals and weddings and was always going to the hospital to visit the sick. Don was always preaching the gospel at every opportunity, and has impacted so many people on his journey. If Don was not ministering, you could find him in his workshop building something, with grandchildren or possibly working in his garden. He was a phenomenal banjo player and loved listening to bluegrass music. He will be missed by all that knew him. His legacy will continue on through his church, his family and friends. This is a brief summary of Donald Ray Smith’s life, but could not possibly describe the man that he was, nor the people he affected. Visitation will be Saturday, December 26, 2020 from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at Shirley Brothers Washington Memorial Chapel, 9606 East Washington Street, followed by a private funeral service for the family with a live stream for all to view at https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/4630768. A Celebration of Life Service will be held in the future at Lighthouse Community Church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Lighthouse Community Church, 8401 East Rawles Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46219.