William David Smith     May 18, 1934 – June 1, 2025

William David Smith, 91, of Schenectady, New York, passed away peacefully on June 1, surrounded by his loving family, at the Kingsway Arms Nursing Center.

Born on May 18, 1934, in Emporia, Kansas, David was the son of Ida Bernice (Bobst) and Wilbur James Smith. He grew up on a dairy farm near Kansas City and graduated from Washington High School. After high school, he served honorably in the United States Air Force as a navigator, refueling spy planes and bombers all over the world during the Cold War. After his service, David attended the University of Kansas, where he earned a degree in Electrical Engineering; he served in the Air Force Reserve until 1970.

While at KU, David met Delpha Therese Battle from Leavenworth, Kansas. They were married on August 29, 1959 in Lawrence, Kansas, and welcomed their children Bill, Sandy, and Jim in the years that followed.

David enjoyed a distinguished career as an engineer, working for Honeywell and IBM in Minnesota and Maryland. In the early 1970s, he co-founded Automated Health Records in Philadelphia while raising the family in Haddonfield, New Jersey. In retirement, David and Terri settled in Schenectady in 2000.

David was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He loved spending time with his family and supporting their every need and endeavor, tackling home projects, grilling, and engaging in spirited debates – a cherished Smith family tradition. Over his last few years, David frequently said, "I've had a good life." His warmth, determination, humor, and sharp mind will be deeply missed.

David is survived by his beloved wife of more than 65 years, Terri Smith of Schenectady; his children: Bill Smith and wife Karen of Schenectady, Sandra Pitner and husband Phil of Newburgh, NY, and Jim Smith and wife Lori Carswell of Norwich, VT; and his grandchildren: Christine Surrette (Scott), Greg Pitner (Xue), Caroline Pitner (William Ziomek);  Alison and Casey Smith; William and Julia Smith; and his six great-grandchildren: Adeline, Jackson, Evelyn, Ariana, Lily, and Theodore.

Also surviving are his siblings: Jerry Peden of Shawnee, Kansas; Gwen Henry (Chet) of Wheaton, Illinois, Paul Smith (Debera), Kenneth Smith (Denise), and Raymond Smith (Myrna), all of Shawnee, Kansas; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

David was predeceased by his parents, Wilbur and Ida Smith; his brothers Wilbur Jr. and Wayne Smith; and his sisters Corinne Selph, Marlene Brandon, and Sharon Smith.

A celebration of David's life is being planned for this summer.