David Henry Smith, III

David Henry Smith III, age 93 of Paterson, died on Sunday, April 7, 2024. David was a life-long Patersonian, having resided in the Hillcrest section for nearly his entire life.

He was born on December 9,1930 to David H Smith Jr. and Catherine (nee Prall) Smith in Paterson N.J.

He grew up on Redwood Ave. in a home built by his paternal Grandfather. As a boy the house was filled with extended family because of the depression. His father, always working, supported these family members through the hard times. Dave enjoyed working with horses at a local stable, but couldn’t enter the house until he changed clothes and cleaned up.

Dave attended Paterson Public Schools, graduating from Central High School. He also was a member of Union Avenue Baptist Church, where he met Ada Hausleben, who he would eventually marry and share a life for 72 years.

In 1951 Dave entered the United States Marine Corps, enduring basic training at Parris Island, S.C. After basic training, he was assigned to Cook and Bakers School, and upon completion was assigned to Camp Lejeune, spending the remainder of his time there. While serving in the Corps, he celebrated the birth of a son David P. Smith in 1952. Serving as a Marine would be a source of great pride for his life, often remarking “Once a Marine, always a Marine!!”

Upon discharge Dave went to work for the A&P Tea Co., where he would serve as a store assistant manager. After receiving a business degree from Rutgers University, Dave would be promoted to the Personnel Department. and then to the Purchasing Department in the Paterson Division. He later moved to Corporate Purchasing, where he would complete 45 years until retiring.

Dave and Ada had many great friends, and would enjoy time at the lake, traveling throughout Europe, the Middle East, and the U.S. They loved spending time with family, especially their three grandchildren and great grandchild.

Dave and Ada joined Preakness Baptist Church (PBC), where he would sing in the choir and occasionally sing solos. He was very active at PBC and loved his Church family. One of Dave’s loves was country music, often to the chagrin of his loved ones. Dave and his son attended many sporting events together, especially enjoying their time at NY Ranger games, often sitting in the “celebrity section” meeting many NY glitterati.

Dave enjoyed a full life filled with loving family and friends. He was a man of faith and is now embraced in the loving arms of Jesus Christ.