DALE MATTHEW SMITH
February 12, 1949–August 15, 2020

Dale Matthew Smith, of Zephyrhills, Florida, formerly of Argyle, New York and Paris, Tennessee, went home to glory on August 15, 2020 at the age of 71. Dale was born on February 12, 1949 in Holland, New York, to Frank A. and Louise E. Smith.  In 1967, he joined the United States Coast Guard.  He met his future wife, Louise G. Carranza, at the Cardinal Spellman’s Servicemen’s Club in NYC in December 1968 and they were married in October 1970. He worked as a New York State Correction Officer for 32 years, was an avid hunter, fisherman, and bowler having the success of reaching an 899 3-game series.  He was a gentle, kind, soft-spoken man who sincerely loved his family.  He made friends easily and had long-time friendships that spanned over 30 years.  He worked hard at home and on the job.  In 1972, he earned his Black Belt and loved showing off his Taekwondo abilities throughout his life.

Dale is survived by his wife of 50 years, Louise (“Gabby”); his mom, Louise E. Smith of Warrensburg, NY; his three sons: Dustin (Stephanie) of Queensbury, NY; Denver of Chicago, IL, and Thomas of Lehigh Acres, FL; his four grandchildren: Ethan, Andrew, Brock and Reis; his three siblings: Frank E. (Mary) of Buffalo, NY, David (Bonny) of Hartford, NY, and Becky Lawler of Warrensburg, NY; and numerous nieces and nephews. Dale was preceded in death by his father, Frank, who passed on April 30, 2020.  Their deaths have left such a void in the Smith family.  They are missed so much.  Their lives paralleled each other in so many ways and Father God even had their appointed time of death to be in 2020.

Dale surrendered his life to the Lord in 2007 and faithfully served Him until he was called home.  His life changed. Jesus was now his Lord and Savior and he was so grateful for the mercy shown to him.  Because of Yeshua’s great sacrifice on the Cross, Dale was assured of eternal life, not because of his own righteousness but because of the saving blood of Jesus Christ.  He prayed that everyone he knew would also have this assurance (Romans 10:8-10).

Dale will be cremated with planned memorial services to be held in Paris, TN, and Hudson Falls, NY, at a future time. The family is grateful for the condolences, and requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or The Gideons in Dale’s honor.