Donald Eugene Smith

Mr. Donald Eugene Smith, age 83 of Anna, died at 9:55 p.m. Friday, September 11, 2015 in the Union County Hospital in Anna. He was born August 28, 1932 in Cobden, the son of Howard William and Elva Mae Crowell Smith. He married the love of his life, Geneva Rhodes on May 12, 1956 in Blytheville, Arkansas and together they raised two beautiful daughters. Don is survived by his loving wife of fifty nine years, Geneva Smith of Anna; two daughters, Julie Mae (Jeri) Walker of Cobden, Ellen Jene (Charles) Sharpe of Marion; three grandchildren, Emily Rose (Felipe) Rafael, Melissa Mae Sharpe and John Charles Sharpe; one great grandchild, Ava Grace Rafael; one brother, Jerry Marvin (Judy) Smith of Lebenon, IL; other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Howard J. Smith and two sisters, Linda Baxter and Pam Smith. Don became a Christian at a young age, he was a member of the Immanuel Baptist Church in Cobden for many years. He loved the outdoors, and spent every waking moment working outside. He was retired from The Department of Conservation after twenty four years as an Assistant Ranger at Giant City Park. After retirement he continued his real passion of farming. He had a soft spot in his heart for animals, especially horses and dogs. In his spare time he loved to fish. Don proudly served his country for four years in the United States Navy during the Korean War. Funeral services for Mr. Donald Eugene Smith will be at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, September 16, 2015 in the Rendleman & Hileman Funeral Home in Anna with Msgr. Ken Schaefer officiating. Interment will be in the Anna City Cemetery. Friends may call after 11:00 a.m. and until the service hour at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday September 16, 2015 in the Rendleman & Hileman Funeral Home in Anna. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association. Envelopes will be available in the Rendleman & Hileman Funeral Home in Anna.