Marietta Southern Funerals & Cremations
Donald E. Smith, born December 5,1948 in Chattanooga, Tennessee, passed away on July 18,2023, in Marietta, Georgia. Don is preceded in death by his father, Casey Smith, and his motherMarilynn Martere, both from Chattanooga, Tennessee.
Long known as “Dirt” by his family and friends he is survived by his two brothers, Bryan andGary, his wife of 39 years Annie, their twins, Liz and Nic, Nic’s wife, Jessi, and their threechildren, Lily, Noah and Ella.
Dirt’s love of riding his Harley and the Tennessee Vols was only surpassed by his love for familyand friends. He enjoyed family gatherings over the years in Chattanooga, Charleston, St. Pete,and the River House. Being outside made Dirt happy. He enjoyed walking on the beach, gazingat the stars and the pure wonder of nature.
A veteran of the U.S. Air Force, Don worked for AT&T as an installer, lineman, and cable repairtechnican. He loved helping people, so he often worked on Hurricane Relief efforts during hiscareer. After 39 years, he happily retired.
Don’s Memorial Service will be held on August 5th, 2:00 - 4:00 in the funeral home chapel ofSouthern Cremations & Funerals at Cheatham Hill Memorial Park, 1861 Dallas Highway SW30064, Marietta, Georgia.








Many a good time with Dirt. I am grateful that I had the opportunity to know him and his family. A co-worker & great friend!
I’m sure many will remember being at a party with Dirt!
We love you Dirt, Rick and Linda Hembree. Rest in Peace my dear friend.
So sorry Ralphy! I have good memories of hanging with you and Dirt way before babies and life separated us. Love, Jane
He will truly be missed! Peace, Prayers and Blessings.
I was introduced to Don Smith as Dirt and that’s what I and most everyone else called him until he got married to Annie who we all called Ralphie before they tied the knot.
He was one of the kindness and most generous humans I’ve known. He had the wonderful gift of really listening, a rare quality.
Ride on in Peace and Love my Friend.
Jane
I know one thing and that is Dirt lived an amazing life. Dirt and his brother Grubb were my neighbors at Tahoe in Clarkston. There was always fun to be had in those days. Can you imagine living like we did today?! There was always a party somewhere. And the motorcycles! I remember waking to seeing all these men sleeping in the courtyard and their motorcycles parked in the house. I would let my dog “Jane” out for her morning constitutional and before I could stop her she’d be licking faces, waking them up.
And then on the weekends he’d build breakfast. He taught me how to make a fried egg. And oh, everyone signed the wall in his place.
Chattahootchie Raft Races, Steeplechases, you name it we gathered for the fun to be had by all.
Ralphie, cheers to you for living the life with your Man Dirt. Love is alive for you and your family having him in your life. Your memories will give you comfort. -Lisa Braschler