David W. Smith, Sr.

David W. Smith Sr.

Age 74, of Penn Yan, passed away September 9, 2026 at home after a courageous 10 year battle with cancer.

David was born in Penn Yan on March 5, 1952, the son of the late Milford Smith and Mary (Roe) Kochert.  He was predeceased by both parents, as well as brother, Neil Smith. He married the love of his life, Sandra Armstrong on November 29, 1980. 

After graduating from Penn Yan Academy in 1970, Dave began his working career with Tom Petro Siding. He later worked alongside his oldest brother, Neil, doing roofing. Dave's next job was with the Yates County Highway Department, where he began his career as a professional driver. He went on to drive truck for Penn Yan Express and Yellow Motor Freight, where he spent 30 years on the road. 

In his younger years you could often find Dave hanging out at Smitty’s Arco with his best friend Dale Jensen. 

Dave's love for cars began at an early age and remained a lifelong passion. It was no surprise to see him racing around town in his Chevy II. After retirement, he continued to enjoy driving and working on his vintage cars, especially his cherished '57 Chevy (the "fancy car" as his grandkids called it), 1970 Corvette Stingray and '46 Ford Deluxe. Dave loved attending car shows and proudly displayed trophies he earned for his beautiful cars. 

He is survived by his loving wife Sandra; children, David W. Smith II of Penn Yan, Allison (Ben) Ballard of Dundee; stepson Brian (Heidi) Updike of Corfu, NY; brother, Steven (Nancy) Smith of Sherburne, NY; sister Ann E. Smith of Branchport; grandchildren, Kaelee, Jaxyn, Vincent, Jaxon, Brynleigh, Cason, Alyssa and Eric ; great-grandchildren, Eric Jr and Liam. 

The family will receive friends at Weldon Funeral Home, 102 E. Main St., Penn Yan, on Thursday (Sept. 17) from 5pm-7pm.  A Memorial Service will be held on Friday (Sept. 18th) at 11:00am at the Branchport United Methodist Church, 3376 Guyanoga Rd., Branchport, NY.