David T Smith

David Theodore “D.T. or Dave” Smith, 96, of Philo, Illinois, passed away peacefully
on September 30, 2025.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife and lifelong companion, Geri
Barnhart Smith, whom he lovingly called his “Angel.”
Devoted to his family and friends, Dave was the cornerstone of wisdom and
kindness for generations. He taught by example—how to love deeply, work hard,
listen with compassion, and treat people with fairness. His gentle demeanor, caring
heart, bright blue eyes, and ever-present smile left an impression on everyone he
met. Known for his quick wit and endless stories, Dave’s laughter and humor were
gifts he shared generously.
Dave found great joy in farming and working the land, which he fondly called “a
little slice of heaven.” His love of horses began in his youth, when he competed in
county fair events before turning his focus to training, breeding, and racing Quarter
Horses. Among the many horses he raised and cherished, his favorite was Mr.
Levan, a standout competitor who made Dave a respected name at tracks across
the region. The family spent many summer weekends traveling together to races,
creating treasured memories along the way.
Even at 96, Dave—affectionately known as “Papa”—remained devoted to farming,
caring for the land, and tending to the tasks he loved. Though family safety
concerns lessened him from working the fields as much as he wished, he still found
pride and joy in mowing the yard, keeping close to the soil that sustained him. He
filled his days with classic country music, old westerns, and a steady faith that
“everything is going to work out.”
Above all, Dave will be remembered for the love he gave his family, the guidance he
offered his friends, and the stories and laughter he shared with all. His presence
was truly a blessing, and his legacy lives on in the lives he touched. God broke the
mold when he made him.
Dave is survived by his five children, Donna (Dennis) Dalton of Virginia, David A.
(Melanie) Smith of Missouri, Connie Smith of Charleston, IL, Gale (Dan) Sterrenberg
of Arkansas, and Becky (Mike) Ayers of Colfax, IL. He also leaves behind twelve
grandchildren—Chelsea (Traeden) Nord, Caitlin Dalton, Flint Smith,
Danielle Sterrenberg (Ryan McGuire), Tara (David) Reckert, Kaylie (Steven) Bishop,
Jamie (Austin) Glover, Adam Sterrenberg (Jacey Becton), Jeremy (Carla) Ayers,
Joshua (Adriana) Ayers, Jordan (Haley) Ayers, Jenna (Wilbur) Lovitt —as well as

twenty-five great-grandchildren: Aksel and Sweja Nord; Isla and Rylan McGuire
Sterrenberg; Caroline and Margaux Reckert; Brynn, Beckett, Blaise, and Baylor
Bishop; Greyson, Bergen, and Noralyn Glover; Gracie and Clark Becton; Caleb and
Avery Ayers, Desi and Zeke De Los Santos; Elijah, C.J., and Benji Ayers; Dottie Ayers;
and Edmund and Benson Lovitt.
A celebration of life service will be held in May 2026 in honor of Dave’s birthday.
Memorial contributions may be made in Dave’s honor to St. Jude Children’s
Research Hospital.

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