R. Doyal Smith

R. Doyal Smith, age 79, of Dover, died peacefully early Monday morning, July 18, 2011 in Amberwood Manor, following a period of declining health. Born at LaSalle, Michigan, April 5, 1932, he was the son of the late Edson Earl Smith and Margaret Elizabeth Johnson Pinchek. While still a little boy, his family moved to Ohio where Doyal went to school.Following graduation from high school, Mr. Smith entered the United States Marine Corps and was deployed to Korea where he served on the front lines and in the Marine Engineering Corps constructing runways for Air Force use. He earned two bronze stars during his tour, and was honorably discharged as a Sergeant in July, 1954. Once home, he founded the R. Doyal Smith Excavating and Masonry Company, and went on to own and operate other business in the area.A lifetime member of VFW Post 1445 at New Philadlephia, Doyal also held membership with the former Dover VFW. He’ll be remembered by his family for his love of hunting and fishing, and in his early years, for his love of sailing Atwood Lake. Doyal loved dogs, and was particularly fond of his “Brown Dog” who preceded him in death two years ago. Survivors include his four children; Robin Ann Gallion of Dover, David Allen (wife, Wendy) Smith of Mineral City, Patty Ann Smith of Zoarville, and Michael Allen (wife, Tina) Smith of Mineral City, Ohio. Four grandchildren, Craig Gallion, of New Philadelphia, Eric (wife, Dawna) Gallion of Dover, Megan (husband, Jeff) Atkinson of Mineral City, and Chad Smith of Dover, as well as four great-grandchildren, also survive. In addition to his parents, Doyal is preceded in death by his former wife, Doris Edith Rothacher, and his longtime companion, Josie Prashaw. Friends are invited to call from 6 to 8 PM on July 25, 2011 in the Geib Funeral Center at Dover where the Rev. Hugh B. Berry will lead a memorial service at 8:00 PM in the funeral home’s chapel. Military honors will be rendered by VFW Post 1445 following the memorial service. Private inurnment at Western Reserve National Cemetery will follow at a later date. To share memories and condolences with the family, please visit the funeral home’s website. Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice