Donnie Lee Smith

Donnie Lee Smith, 62, of Orange, passed away on October 8, 2020 at his home.

A gathering will begin at 4:00 p.m. with a memorial service at 6:00 p.m., Wednesday, October 21, at Maranatha Christian Center in Orange. Officiating will be Pastor Daniel Ray.

Born in Orange, Texas, on October 12, 1957, he was the son of Donald E. Smith and Melba Simmons Nation. He graduated from Lutcher Stark High School in 1975 and enlisted in the Air Force shortly after. Donnie was stationed in Panama and fell in love with the country. His dream was to one day return and live out his life there. After the Air Force, he became an Orange Firefighter. Donnie was a hard worker and being a firefighter was his passion. He loved his family dearly and will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his children, Brooke Fontenot and husband Hank and Heather Smith; grandchildren, Kayson Smith, Karlee Smith, Kaleigh Smith, Kennedy Smith, Hartley Fobbs, and Hudson Fobbs; siblings, Donna Howland and husband Marty, and Cindy Ray and husband Daniel; mother of his children and friend, Terri Pietrowicz; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald E. Smith and Melba Simmons Nation; grandson, Huntley Fontenot.

Cremation will be under the direction of Claybar Funeral Home.