David Fitzgerald Smith

David Fitzgerald Smith, age 55 of 233 Palace Green Lane,  Sanford, NC passed on Friday, October 25, 2019 at his residence.

On October 25th 2019, an angel of mercy came quietly into the room of David Fitzgerald Smith and said it was time to enter the Kingdom of Heaven.  He was born on October 19, 1964 in Orange County to the  Late David Smith and the Late Shirley Rodgers.

David attended Northwood High School.  He was known as Fitzgerald to his hometown friends and family in Pittsboro.  At a young age, he loved music.  In fact, music was in his blood line.  He regularly told stories of him playing the guitar for his church choir, other bands and even traveled with several quartet groups as a teenager.  David’s passion and talent in music grew as he became a songwriter, producer, engineer and ghost writer.

David’s second passion was coaching basketball. He felt that life lessons could be taught through basketball, and it was also an opportunity to mentor the youth.  Many of his players not only earned scholarships, many pursued their masters and worked in Corporate America. This was due to his dedication and commitment as a basketball coach and trainer.

David is survived by: his wife, Jamila Smith; his children, Montez Smith, Todd Smith and Jamal James; his grandchildren, Harlem Smith and Montasia Smith; his sisters, Denise Freeman (Wayne), Lubbie Penny and Princess Griffin Russel; his brothers, Nicklous Rodgers, Mike Craven (Robin), and David Griffin (Ester); Nieces, Rachel Young (Tremaine), Keoshia Penny, Azaria Penny, LaShaun Byrd, Dominique Jackson, Kristi and Michaele; nephews, Jason Freeman, Nikel Rogers and Jarvis; and a host of cousins and friends.

Arrangements By: Knotts Funeral Home, Sanford