Darrell SMITH

Darrell Smith, age 57, was called home on Saturday, February 13, 2016 unexpectedly at Miami Valley Hospital after a sudden and brief illness. On August 21, 1958, Darrell was born to Isaac and Edna Smith in Dayton, OH, which would become his lifelong residence. He graduated Salutatorian of the 1976 class of Dunbar High School and then went on to the University of Dayton earning his Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Engineering. He began his career as a Network Systems Engineer and was a long time employee of Wright Patterson Air Force Base. After leaving the base, he continued on in the IT field working for a few other companies.

Because of his calm, cool, and laid back demeanor, Darrell was often referred to as a "gentle giant." However he was most affectionately known by his friends as "Delta," a nickname given to him when he got his first car…a Delta 88. It has also been rumored that the name was given to him because he was always the "captain" of the plane that stood outside of his elementary school, Highview. Either way, that nickname would stick with him throughout his entire life. Darrell will always be remembered for his witty sense of humor and cheerful, contagious laugh. He was a very kind and loving man, and will forever live on through our memories of him.

Darrell is preceded in death by his mother and father. He leaves to cherish his memory wife, Rochelle D. Smith; four daughters, Alicia Smith, Sherri (Carl) Cameron, Ashley (Thurman) Burney, and Latoya Lawson; two step-children, Jamar and Zaki'ya Black; grand-children, Jayvon Berry, Janiya Spears, Jordan Cameron, Tra'Velle and Tristan Burney, and Chenelle Cates; six step-grandchildren; uncle, Ernest Smith; two aunts, Wendy Flagg and Arivella Bell; a special friend, Dedra Ham Delemos; best friends, Willie, Hop, Miles, Stan, Smoot, Quack, Sam, and Ronnie; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Visitation (10a) and Funeral (11a) - Saturday, February 20, 2016 at True Vine Missionary Baptist Church, 32 Malden Ave, Dayton, OH

Professional services entrusted to Young Lusain Funeral Home, formerly Bowman Funeral Chapel.