Obituary of Daniel Ray Smith, Jr.

Daniel Ray Smith, Jr. died on Tuesday, August 25, 2020 as a result of an accident doing what he loved most, riding his Harley. He was born in New Orleans, Louisiana on October 21, 1962 and grew up in Copenhagen, Louisiana. Danny was a professional surveyor who worked and traveled all over the world including the country of Turkey. His profession allowed him to combine his love of the outdoors and history. While his heart always remained hunting on his land in his native state of Louisiana, much of the last 20 years were spent in Texas and he made Onalaska, Texas home for many years. Danny made anywhere he went home - always creating a large community of friends with his easy manner, willingness to help anyone, and generosity. He is survived by his wife Holly Atwood Smith, son Matthew Smith, stepson’s Uriah Atwood and Lance Koch, parents Daniel Smith, Sr. and Shirley Smith, his brother William Smith, sister Cathy Smith Horne (Jeff Horne), nephews Stran Smith (Destinee Smith and daughter Lyndi), Cole Horne, and Chants Graff, nieces Hadley Smith, Laurie Graff, Kelly Graff, Maya Graff, and Haylee Graff, “adopted” daughter, Cheryl Laird, and his beloved cat Macy. His family and extended family including aunts and uncles, cousins and the family he created of co-workers, co-riders, and everyone he met along his journey, will dearly miss his visits, his helping hand, his wisdom and wit, and especially his loving and generous spirit. Pallbearers will be Stran Smith, William Smith, Matthew Smith, Jeff Horne, CH Smith, and Uriah Atwood. A graveside service will be held on Thursday, September 3, 2020 at 2 pm at Holum Baptist Church 3170 Highway 126 East Grayson, Louisiana. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Cenla Cat Project P.O. Box 3597 Pineville, LA 71361 www.cenlacatproject.org Contributions may also be made in his name to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.