David L Smith

David Lee Smith was born on July 21, 1944, in Marshall, Texas, to F.E. and Arleta Smith. He spent his early years in Karnack, Texas, where he attended George Washington Carver High School. Known for his athleticism, David had a natural love for sports, especially baseball. Some of his most meaningful lessons were learned off the field, in the quiet moments spent with his mentor and role model, Jake Yancy. To the Yancy family, David was affectionately known as “Pain, ” a nickname given with love. Whether sitting by the waters of Caddo Lake or casting a line side by side, those fishing trips became the foundation of David’s deep love for fishing and more importantly, where he gained wisdom, guidance, and a sense of purpose that would shape the man he became. In 1967, David met and married the love of his life, LaVerne Pounds. Their union was one rooted in love, strength, and commitment. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised three daughters, lovingly known as “The Poodles.” David was also blessed with a son and a daughter, all of whom he loved deeply. He was a devoted father who believed in showing up, working hard, and keeping his family close, connected, and grounded in love. David’s strong work ethic led him to begin his career at Applied Materials in the 1970s. In 1979, he joined Local Union 389 in San Mateo, California, where he worked in carpentry and construction. But for David, work was never just about earning a living it was about opening doors for others. Through his years in the union, he became a source of opportunity and encouragement, helping young men in the East Palo Alto community find jobs, build skills, and believe in their own potential. Service was not something David did it was who he was. For over 25 years, he dedicated himself to volunteering at the East Palo Alto Senior Center, quietly becoming a pillar in the community. Day after day, he made sure seniors and families had food on their tables. He built lasting relationships with organizations like Costco and Second Harvest Food Bank, often loading up his personal red truck to collect and deliver groceries. If someone couldn’t make it to the center, David would bring the food to them no questions asked. He didn’t just provide meals; he provided dignity, care, and consistency. During the holidays, David’s generosity shined even brighter. He made it his mission to ensure families in the community could gather around warm, meaningful meals. He went beyond food helping furnish homes, supporting families in need, and making sure children had gifts to open. His impact could be felt not just in what he gave, but in how he gave with compassion, humility, and a genuine love for people. David’s faith was the foundation that guided his life. After giving his heart to the Lord, he became a devoted member of the Cathedral of Faith in San Jose, California. For over 26 years, he faithfully served as an usher, greeting others with warmth and quiet strength, always ready to lend a helping hand. In July 2013, David was recognized by Congresswoman Jackie Speier for his outstanding contributions to the Senior Center and the East Palo Alto community. Yet for David, recognition was never the goal serving others was. David Lee Smith leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and generosity. He was the kind of man who showed up for his family, for his community, and for anyone in need. His life was a testament to what it means to give wholeheartedly, live faithfully, and love without limits. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, LaVerne Smith; his mother, Arleta Bennett, father, F.E. Smith; his brothers, Jimmy Smith and Vernon Lee Smith; his sisters, Margaret Ann Bennett and Dalphine Bowens. He leaves to cherish his memory his sisters, Alice Williams, Lauretta Bennett of East Palo Alto, CA God sisters Glenda Brown, Brenda Yancy and Bobbi Yancy of TX; his children, Darnetta Smith of Union City, CA, Latechia Stanton Moses Stanton of Queen Creek, AZ, Sharrese Smith of East Palo Alto, CA, Nikia Smith of San Jose, CA and his only son, Tyrone Wilson, Brittany Wilson of Walnut Creek; CA. He also leaves behind a legacy of love through his grandchildren: DeVonte, Shemar, 

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