Bruce was born August 11, 1949, in Winston County to Henry and Jean Culpepper Smith. He loved his family and friends dearly; and he was a fun-loving person who enjoyed hunting, fishing, and riding motorcycles and horses. For 20 years, he answered the call of his country by serving in the United States Army spending time in the Pentagon and as a recruiter.
Bruce is survived by his wife of 26 years, Laurie Smith of Florence, Mississippi; his mother, Jean Hurt of Byram, Mississippi; daughter, Shannon Smith of Raymond, Mississippi; his son, Donald Bruce Smith, Jr., and wife, Megan, of Atlanta, Georgia; and two brothers, Brent Smith and wife, Ashley, of Jackson; and Ron Smith and wife, Sandra, of Peachtree City, Georgia. He was “Big Daddy” or “Papaw” to three grandchildren: Nick Nations; Carmen Nations Luke and husband, Sebastian; and Aurora Smith; and his great-granddaughter, Lakenn Luke. Bruce was preceded in death by his father.
Services are under the direction of Nowell Massey Funeral Home, 724 North Columbus Avenue, Louisville, MS. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family by signing the guest register at www.nowellmasseyfuneralhome.com.