David Leon Smith

David Leon Smith, of Linn Creek, Missouri, went home to be with the Lord on September 3, 2025, in Osage Beach, Missouri, at the age of 66.

Born on December 3, 1958 in Indiana, David was a man of quiet strength, generous spirit, and deep love for the outdoors. Whether casting a line into still waters or tracking through the woods, he found peace in nature and joy in the simple pleasures of life—a steaming cup of coffee, the twang of a well-worn guitar, and the timeless rhythms of classic rock.

David’s life was marked by service and compassion. He retired from the Camden County Sheriff’s Office, where he served with dedication and integrity. But his helping hand extended far beyond his professional life—he was always ready to lend support, fix what was broken, or simply listen. He found joy in seeing others happy, and he gave freely of himself to make that happen.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Rev. Ronald Leon Smith (2006) and Nancy Kay Smith (2002); his sister, Dena Robinett; and his nephew, Christopher Paul Smith, who was raised like a son by David’s parents.

He is survived by his loving wife, Rosa Martinez Lapeyre of Linn Creek, Missouri, and stepson, Logan Lapeyre; his sons, David L. Smith II and Mitchel Smith; and his siblings: Deborah Kay Neuzil of Montreal, Missouri; Daniel D. Smith and wife Amanda of Eldon, Missouri; and Tina Maria Hanson and husband Steve of Louisburg, Missouri. He also leaves behind a legacy of love through his many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

David built a large pond on his property as a gift to Rosa—a testament to his thoughtfulness and love. That pond, like David himself, became a place of gathering, reflection, and joy.

Services for David will be held at Walk on the Water Faith Church on Sunday, September 21, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Walk on the Water Faith Church, PO Box 880, Osage Beach, Missouri 65065.

As we bid farewell to David, we celebrate a life well-lived—a life that testified to the power of faith, the importance of family, and the endless capacity for kindness. He leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. Though David’s earthly journey has come to an end, we rejoice in knowing that he is now fully at peace in the presence of his Savior, Jesus Christ. He has entered into the eternal peace and joy of heaven.

The measure of a man is not in what he has, but in what he gives. David gave us his heart, and we are forever grateful.