TULSA, Okla. — David Stanton Smith of Tulsa, Okla.,

died peacefully at his home surrounded by his loving family on January 22, 2021. David was born in Herkimer, N.Y., to Joanne Kinney Smith and William Thomas Smith on September 10, 1959.

He lived in Ilion, N.Y., and North Little Rock, Ark., before settling in Tulsa. David graduated from Northeast High School in North Little Rock, Ark., spent four years in the United States Navy, then graduated from the University of Arkansas and Spartan School of Aeronautics and Technology. David was employed as a pilot for Air Cargo Carriers and Gemini before starting his career as a pilot with UPS, where he achieved the rank of Captain. While with UPS, David flew to every continent except Antarctica.

David loved the small things: good coffee, good scotch, steaks and tailor-made clothes. He was a trickster and a prankster with a wicked sense of humor. A generous heart for everyone he knew, David eagerly shared his Belgian chocolates and quick smile. Kind, intuitive, and sensitive, he lived his life, no matter the circumstance, with steady, calm grace, and an unhurried demeanor that made him an easy soul to be with, even in the hard days. He’s flying now, looking for the sunshine and the sands of Hawaii.

David was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Robert Smith and Matthew Smith. He is survived by his loving wife of 30 years, Penny Colglazier; two sisters, Debbie Luber (Eric) of Biloxi, Miss., and Amy Parker (Scottie) of Sherwood, Ark.; one brother, James Smith, of North Little Rock, Ark.; nieces Michelle Luber Elliott (Chris) and Avery Parker; and nephews Kyle Luber (Kelly) and Briggs Parker.

There will be a visitation for David on Wednesday, January 27, from 6 – 8 p.m. at Stanley Funeral Home, 3959 East 31st Street in Tulsa.