Donald "Don" Paul Smith

Donald “Don” Paul Smith, 67, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at his residence following an extended illness. Born on October 10, 1958, in Anderson, Indiana, Don was the son of Alonzo Keen and Linnie Thelma (Phillips) Smith.

Throughout his life, Don worked hard and took pride in everything he did. At the age of 18, Don began working and later managed the Perkins Restaurant in Anderson, helping to open the store and serving the community there for two decades. After moving on from Perkins, he owned the Sunrise Café in Pendleton for nearly 20 years, where he built countless friendships and made everyone feel welcome. Don also spent 26 years with the Chrysler Corporation, where he worked as a dedicated team leader.

Don was known and loved by many. His warm personality, sense of humor, and ability to make others laugh made him unforgettable. He loved Christmas more than anything; sending out more than 50 cards every year, a tradition that brought him immense joy. He had a natural green thumb and surrounded himself with plants he nurtured and cared for. Don was also an avid Indiana Pacers and Stephen King fan.

Don is survived by his 37-year best friend and caregiver, Brett Eversole of New Castle; brother, Kenny (Ann) Smith of Ocean Shore, WA; nephew, Kevin Smith of WA; cousin, Rose Gordon of Anderson; also numerous more nieces, nephews and cousins.

In addition to his parents, Don was preceded in death by his siblings, Art, Polly, Peggy and Beverly Gale.

Services will be at 6:00pm on Friday, January 23, 2026 at Hinsey-Brown Funeral Services in New Castle. Visitation will be from 4:00pm until the time of service on Friday. Memorial contributions may be given to Prostate Cancer Research at www.donate.cancer.org. You may express condolences or share memories of Don at www.hinsey-brown.com.