Donald Corbin Smith, 80, of Howard, Kan., passed away on Sunday, July 5, 2026, at the Greenwood Country Hospital in Eureka. Don was born in rural Elk County on May 25, 1946, the son of Kenneth Owen and Pauline (Corbin) Smith.

Don was a graduate of Howard High School, class of 1964. On Aug. 22, 1966, he joined the United States Navy, and traveled throughout the world, serving three tours until receiving his honorable discharge. Upon his return, Don began working for Cessna and worked for the next 40-plus years until his retirement.

Don was a member of the American Legion Carter-Rader Post 0149 of Howard. He enjoyed going camping, fishing, hunting, ship reunions and watching rodeos. He was an avid sports fan, especially of KU and the Chiefs, and enjoyed spending time visiting with people. He enjoyed making bets with folks and loved sharing his advice with others. Most importantly, Don loved spending time with his family, especially during Christmas time. His most memorable time has been the past 25 years spent with Christy.

Including Christy Tyler, Don is survived by his daughter, Steffanie Comer and husband Denny of Clearwater; stepchildren, Kenny Tyler (Miranda) of Derby, Billy Tyler (Paxton) of Howard, and Heather Houchin (Ben) of Howard; 12 grandchildren, Daylen, Kenzie, Alivia, Axten, Atlas, Kayla, Keaton, Kynlee, Cora, Beau, Mae and Marilyn Kay; and nieces and nephews, Lonnie (Ruth), Kyle (Tabitha), Melissa, Brandi, Hope, Paula, Owen, Laynee, Haden, Kevin, Michele, Tiffany, Zach, Aiden, Cody, Danielle (Jon).

Don was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Ronald Smith; sister and brother-in-law, Paula Lanning and Bill Lanning; brother and sister-in-law, Ron and Carol Smith; niece, Rhonda; mother-in-law, Ruth Watts; and brother-in-law, Tom Watts.

Funeral service will be held on Monday, July 13, at 2 p.m. at Countryside Funeral Home in Howard, with visitation being held one hour prior to service time. Burial will follow at the Cresco Cemetery.

Memorials have been suggested to the Donald C. Smith Memorial, as the family wants to get benches to place downtown where people can sit and visit. These may be left with or mailed to the funeral home.

Online condolences can be left at www.countrysidefh.com. Service was entrusted to Countryside Funeral Home, 206 E. Washington, P.O. Box 1233, Howard, KS 67349,