Former Brentwood resident Donald Raymond Smith, 77, succumbed to bile duct and liver cancer after an arduous struggle. He took tremendous comfort in his unshakeable faith during this difficult time.

Donald, one of four children, was born in Chicago and attended private schools in that city. He earned a physics degree from DePaul University and was a first lieutenant in the U.S. Army Signal Corps. He also served in the U.S. Army Reserves.

Donald moved his family to California and raised his family in Sunnyvale. His career included engineering, technical writing and owning small businesses. He and his wife moved to Brentwood in 2001. Donald coached several sports and served as a scoutmaster in the Boy Scouts of America, holding numerous leadership roles.

His personal interests included hiking, backpacking, time spent with his grandchildren, and church activities. Donald would bring the sacrament of Communion to the sick in the hospital. He managed Brentwood’s Tribute to the Troops display at local restaurants and was proud of his 30-year involvement in the Respect Life Ministry. He recently worked to have a special Respect Life prayer said at each Catholic mass.

Donald is survived by his wife of more than 51 years, Mary Ann V. Smith. He is also survived by his children: Michael of Oakland, Thomas of San Jose, James of Baton Rouge, La., William of Vallejo and Kathleen Cervone of Windsor. Also surviving are grandchildren Oliver and Henry Smith, Cameron and Joseph Cervone, and Harrison and Lucy Smith.

Friends and family attended a Visitation on Monday, Feb. 14 at the Brentwood Funeral Home, followed by a Rosary. The funeral service in celebration of Donald’s life was held Tuesday, Feb. 15 at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Brentwood. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Birthright of Brentwood.