Donald L. Smith

Donald Smith, age 83 of Pearl, IL passed away Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at Illini Community Hospital in Pittsfield, IL. He was born August 14, 1942, in Pearl, IL to Paul and Florence Glenna Reese Smith. Donald married Barb Maracle and to this union, two children were born.

Donald grew up in Pearl and worked in construction throughout his life. He was a hard worker who worked at various places around the county including helping to build the Florence Bridge. In his spare time, he loved fishing, hunting, and spending time in the great outdoors. He loved taking care of his rabbits, guineas, and chickens and whatever else he could find that needed his care. Donald could often be found sitting around the round table at the Nebo Cafe solving the world’s problems. He also enjoyed working on his old cars and driving them around. Donald could be a stubborn, bull-headed man but would give you his last dime and was always there for anyone in need.

Donald is survived by children, Doug Smith and Rochelle Smith, both of Pearl, IL; grandchildren, Kaci (Jason) Alfaro and Dalton (Erica) Smith; siblings, Gladys Clarkson, Doris Webel, Ronnie (Pam) Smith, and Freddie (Joetta) Smith; sister-in-law, Sondra Smith; and numerous nieces and nephews also survive.

He was preceded in death by brothers, Gearold (Barb) Smith, Floyd ‘Bud’ Smith, and Bill Smith; sisters, Virginia Chaplin Blevins and Lois (Jr.) Stanley; and brothers-in-law, John Webel and Robert Clarkson.

Cremation rites have been accorded, and Graveside Service will be held at 11:00 AM, Friday, January 16, 2026, at Hess Cemetery in Pearl, IL. Memorials are suggested to be made to the family c/o Niebur Funeral Home. Online condolences may be left to the family at www.nieburfh.com. Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield is handling the arrangements.

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