Donnie (Dunham) Smith

Donnie D. Smith, 83, passed away on August 30, 2025, after a long illness. 

Born on October 17, 1941, in Ludowici, Georgia, Donnie lived a full and vibrant life from beginning to end, she touched the lives of many people along the way. After graduating from Long County High School in 1959, she met the love of her life, William, while both were working at Fort Stewart. They married in 1962 and lived in Hinesville their entire lives. Donnie was proud of her service at Fort Stewart and held many key roles during her long career. She was active in her community, serving on the Flemington City Council for more than two decades. Donnie was a member of Midway Methodist Church and was devoted to her church serving various roles within the church over the years.

In addition to her love for her family, she was a great friend to many in the community and particularly enjoyed playing Bridge with her friends. She and Maryann enjoyed to travel and especially treasured their time and travels together. She dedicated herself to volunteering for animal charities, as they were close to her heart. Donnie was a blessing to many and in her later years was blessed with amazing caregivers, Michaela Hamlin and Phyllis Long. She was grateful for their dedicated care and treasured their friendship.

Donnie was preceded in death by her husband, William N. Smith, daughter, Maryann Smith, parents, Winn and Mary Dunham, and siblings WC Dunham, Jr. (Betty), Alice Manning (Harrell), and Franklin Dunham.

Donnie is survived by her son, David Smith, daughter-in-law, Lisa Smith, grandchildren, Cameron and Ansley Smith, Maryann’s life partner, Joel Aaron, and his children, Jake (Brenis) and Sam (Lindsay), Joel’s grandson, Clark Aaron, sister-in-law, Elaine Dunham and numerous nieces and nephews.

Services will be held at Midway Methodist Church, 215 Martin Road, Midway, GA on Thursday, September 4th, 2025  with visitation starting at 11am and a memorial service at noon. Rev. Hank Perry will be officiating the service. 

Given Donnie’s passion for animal welfare, in lieu of flowers her family requests donations to Carpathia PAWS Animal Rescue, via Pay Pal at carpathiapaws@gmail.com or by check to 1534 Airport Road, Hinesville, GA 31313.

Thomas L. Carter Funeral Home & Crematory is in charge of the arrangements.

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