Arkport, New York
Douglas M. “Doug” Smith – 72 – of Pine Knoll Park, Arkport, NY died early Saturday morning (July 26, 2025) at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, following a long illness.
Born in Hornell on March 18, 1953, he was the son of Merlin & Noritta (Kennell) Smith.
Doug grew up in Hornell and was a graduate of Hornell High School (class of 1971). While in high school, he was a member of the Red Raider Soccer Team.
Following high school graduation, Doug, who always enjoyed being outdoors, worked for a local tree company pruning Christmas trees. For over 25 years he was employed at the former Erie Railroad, Erie-Lackawanna Railroad, Conrail and Pohl Railroad, working in various capacities, retiring in 1999 as Rail Supervisor. From 2000-2008, he was employed at Superior Well Services in Bradford, PA.
Following his “retirement,” Doug was employed as a carpenter & laborer for several local construction companies. He also never hesitated to jump on a tractor to help his cousin, Gerry Smith on his farm or help his best friend, Ray Nesbit, bail hay (and drink beer)!! Most recently he served as a bartender at the Arkport American Legion.
In his younger years, Doug enjoyed nature, hunting and simply being outdoors. He loved camping with his family and attending his children & grand-children’s sporting events and school activities. Doug was a die-hard Buffalo Bills fan (especially during the Super Bowl years) and an avid New York Yankee fan. He was also a long-time member of the Arkport American Legion.
Doug will be remembered most as the man with the distinguished blond hair, marvelous mustache and daring “Dougie Dukes.” He worked hard for most of his life and was glad to be able to enjoy the simple life of retirement. Being able to spend time on the golf course with his two boys; talking farming with Rachel; and receiving updates on his two grandchildren’s accomplishments were the best parts of his day. We cannot forget the visits from his grand-pup, Keeper, who always put a smile on his face.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Dean Smith; sister, Diane Kubiak; his sister-in-law, Mary Smith; and his former wife, Brigette Smith.
Surviving are his children, Rachel (Adam) Smith of Arkport, Andrew (Juliet Berry) Smith of Buffalo and Nick (Raven) Smith of Hornell; 2 brothers, Dwight Smith of Arkport and Jack Smith of New Church, VA; 2 sisters, Dawn (Charlie) Sutfin of Hornell and Debbie (Bill) Saam of Fayetteville, NC; 2 grandsons, Carson Smith and Callum Smith; several nieces, nephews, cousins & friends.
At Doug’s request there will be no calling hours. A “Celebration of Life” will be held on Thursday (August 7, 2025) from 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM at the Arkport American Legion. All are welcome!
Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.
Doug’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to the Arkport Junior Baseball League, C/O Mary Marcus, 196 Ellis Hill Road, Arkport, NY 14807.
To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.