Dr. Daniel Thomas Smith Jr.

Dr. Daniel Thomas Smith Jr., 80, passed away Sunday, June 19, 2022, at his residence. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Dr. Dan ran a successful dental practice in Cameron for over 48 years.

Dan was born Dec. 8, 1941, in Texarkana, to Daniel Thomas and Virginia (Duncan) Smith. He graduated from Texas High School in Texarkana in 1960, where he was Senior Class President. He played basketball, was Latin Club President, member of the Science Club, Allied Youth, Student Council and was named Senior Boy Favorite. He attended Baylor University from 1960-1963, He was a member of the 1967 graduating class of Baylor University Dental School in Dallas.

Dan went on to serve his country in the United States Navy during the Viet Nam War.  He served on the Naval ship, The Bon Homme Richard, earning two Bronze Stars. He gained the rank of Lt. Commander in the Dental Corp in 1971, and was discharged from the Navy on January 22, 1979.

Being an education advocate, Dan served on the Cameron School Board, and was a patron of the Cameron ISD Scholarship Fund. During his time in Cameron, he was active in the American Legion, Boy Scouts, Little League, (coaching the Cubs), and Pony League Baseball. Dan was also active in the Baylor Bear Foundation. He was a member of the Texas Dental Association and the American Dental Association.

Survivors include one son, Daniel T. “Trey” Smith III of Dallas, and one brother, William Chester Smith of Tyler. 

Dr. Dan will be missed by a host of friends. He will be remembered for his kindness, his dedication to his patients and for being a good friend.

The family suggests memorials to the Cameron ISD Scholarship Foundation, P. O. Box 712, Cameron, TX  76520.

Arrangements are under the direction of Green-Patterson Funeral Home in Cameron. Condolences for the family may be left at www.green-pattersonfuneralhome.com.