Donald (Don) Glen Smith

Donald Glen “Don” Smith, 89, of Selmer, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on August 26, 2026, in Selmer. He was born on February 7, 1937, in Finger, Tennessee, to the late Frank P. and Willie Hampton Smith.

On December 25, 1957, Don was united in marriage to the love of his life, Nevella Moore. Together, they shared 69 years of marriage, building a life filled with love, family, faith, and countless cherished memories.

Don was a man who believed in serving others and giving back to his community. For more than 30 years, he served as a funeral director at Shackelford Funeral Directors in Selmer, where he had the privilege of comforting and serving countless families during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. His compassion, kindness, and genuine concern for others left a lasting impression on the many people he encountered throughout his years of service.

His faith was a cornerstone of his life. Don was a longtime and active member of First Baptist Church of Selmer, where he served in many capacities throughout the years. He served as youth director during the 1960s, taught the men's Sunday School class for 10 years, served as Sunday School director for three years, and faithfully served as a deacon, including two years as chairman of deacons. His love for his church and his desire to encourage others were evident in all that he did.

Don also devoted countless hours to his community. He served two terms as a City Alderman for the City of Selmer and was honored twice as McNairy County's Outstanding Young Man. He was especially passionate about young people and athletics. Over the years, he coached Little League and Babe Ruth baseball, coached girls' softball, and served as an umpire for girls' softball for 15 years. He also served as a TSSAA umpire for three years and as an assistant scoutmaster for Troop 232.

He was active in the Selmer Jaycees and was never one to shy away from bringing joy and laughter to his community. Don was a cast member of the local Hee Haw production and, for many years, delighted children throughout the area by playing Santa Claus. He was also a 32nd Degree Mason.

One of the roles Don enjoyed most was that of substitute teacher at McNairy Central High School, a position he held for more than 20 years. It was a job he truly loved, and the students he encountered over the years held a special place in his heart. He had a gift for connecting with young people, encouraging them, and making them feel valued.

Above all, Don treasured his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was especially proud of his grandchildren and remained an enthusiastic presence in their lives, never wanting to miss an opportunity to watch them play ball. His family will forever remember his unwavering love, his generous spirit, his sense of humor, and the countless ways he showed them how much they meant to him.

In his quieter moments, Don enjoyed hunting, fishing, and woodworking. He appreciated the simple pleasures of life and found joy in time spent outdoors, working with his hands, and being surrounded by the people he loved.

Don leaves behind a legacy of faith, service, friendship, and love that will continue through the many lives he touched. He will be deeply missed by his beloved wife, Nevella Smith of Selmer, Tennessee; his sons, Bob Smith and wife Brenda of Jackson, Tennessee, and David Smith of Chewalla, Tennessee; his grandchildren, Zach Smith and wife Lauren, Jessi Smith, Haldey Dix and husband Reece, and Morgan Collins and husband Shane; and his great-grandchildren, Sam Smith, Mary Catherine Smith, and Evelyn Dix.

He is also survived by his brothers, Mac Smith and wife Carol of Selmer, Tennessee, Dan Smith and wife Betty of Adamsville, Tennessee, and Dale Smith of Adamsville, Tennessee, along with a host of extended family members and dear friends.

In addition to his parents, Don was preceded in death by his sisters, Emma Henson and Elaine Moore.

Don spent his life serving others, loving his family, strengthening his community, and making a difference wherever he went. His presence brought comfort, laughter, encouragement, and joy to so many. Though he will be deeply missed, the love he gave and the memories he created will remain in the hearts of his family, friends, former students, church family, and the many people he served throughout his remarkable life.