Donavon "Donnie" Kay Smith's Obituary
Donavon Kay Smith, 72, of Albemarle, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 31, 2025, at Atrium Health–Main in Charlotte.
A native of Hoke County, Donavon was born on April 6, 1953, to the late John P. Smith and Rosa Lee Tyler Smith. He was a proud graduate of the University of North Carolina at Pembroke and dedicated his professional life to public service as a retired Probation and Parole Officer.
Donnie was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather whose love for family and life was evident to everyone who knew him. He is survived by his wife, Jean Carol Baucom Smith, of the home in Albemarle.
He leaves behind his children: Donavon Allen Smith (Samantha) of Aberdeen, NC; Leigh Smith Konen (Will) of Seven Lakes, NC; and Kimberly Alligood Russell (Justin) of Denver, NC. He is also survived by his brother Jimmy Smith (Nancy) of Charlotte, NC; his sister Shirley Melton (Mike) of Raeford, NC; and five treasured grandchildren; Mason Konen, Cale Konen, Porter Smith, Everett Smith, and Valerie Russell.
He was preceded in death by his brother, John Smith and sisters Ella Hogge and Jo Ann Gilliam.
Donnie will be remembered as a great father and grandfather who had a passion for coaching football, loved old cars, and enjoyed spending time with his dogs, Molli and Jake. He especially loved taking peaceful drives to Morrow Mountain State Park.
A memorial service celebrating Donnie’s life will be held on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Stanly Funeral Home Chapel of Albemarle, officiated by Rev. Keith Walters, with military rites to follow.
Donnie’s life was one of service, love, and quiet strength; a legacy that will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved him.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Friends of Morrow Mountain State Park. (PO Box 306 Badin, NC 28009)
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