David Dwight Smith

David Dwight Smith, age 64, passed away in Bakersfield, California on April 25, 2026, after a valiant fight against kidney disease and colon cancer. David was stoic and determined to the very end never complaining or asking why me. Instead, he addressed his situation head on over the last eight weeks of his life with dignity, class, courage, and a belief in Jesus and his eternal life awaiting for him in Heaven.

David was one of the most accomplished athletes ever to play football, basketball, and baseball for St. Francis Parish School and Garces Memorial High School. An incredible competitor, David lettered three years in both varsity football and baseball. On the football field, he was a phenomenal quarterback who inspired his teammates, and was named Garces team MVP in 1976, 1977, and 1978. He earned All-South Sequoia League honors in 1976, 1977, and 1978, and he was selected All-City in 1978. During his remarkable career, David broke all existing Kern County passing records at the time, setting a standard of excellence that few could match. He also played quarterback for Porterville Junior college for two years in 1980-81.

Beyond his athletic achievements, David was known for his brilliant mind and determination. In fact, his memory and recall for details, specific life incidents, and plays in football games was impeccable clear up to the time of his passing. These talents did not go unnoticed, as David earned an appointment to the United States Air Force Academy, a reflection of both his intelligence and character. Later, he chose a highly respected career in restaurant management, a path which took him across the country and allowed him to touch many lives along the way.

As a graduate of the class of 1979, David will be remembered not only for the records he set and the honors he earned, but for the pride he brought to his classmates and school. He will be deeply missed and never forgotten.

David wanted to express his utmost and deepest thank you and appreciation to his dedicated cousin Matt Morrow and friends, Mark Garibaldi, Tim Blazer, Greg Little, Phillip Clarke, and Dan Milla, for their unending care, concern, and spiritual guidance they provided for him until his last breath. He wanted to thank his landlord, Barbara Cebell, who graciously looked after him and assisted him the past few years. David also sends a heartfelt thank you to everyone for their prayers and well wishes, and to those who came to see him, including: his brother Doug Smith, Todd Barksdale, Peter Scaffidi, Dennis Mulholland, Tim Gardea, Mary Berry, Laurie Morrow, Robyn Garibaldi, Tom Hoffmann, and Coach Ned Permenter. David was so thrilled, happy, and grateful to have spent his final weeks visited by all of you, and to have participated in and listened to all of the great stories, and the laughter all of you provided for him. It made his final journey so much easier.

A celebration of life and luncheon honoring David will be held on Sunday May 31, 2026 at 11:30 a.m. at Pizzaville USA located at 700 Oak Street, Bakersfield, CA 93304. Please come prepared if you would like to share a brief comment or story about David at the service.

Special thanks to Tom and Beth Hoffmann and Hoffmann Hospice Home for providing exceptional care for David in his final week. In lieu of flowers, David respectfully requested any donations be made to the Hoffmann Hospice Home at 4401 Buena Vista Road, Bakersfield, CA 93311.