More detail on this person: Dennis A. Smith was born July 26, 1945, in National City, California.
He was raised in a naval military family by Florence May and Drennen Gibbons Ikard. His siblings
include his elder brother Wyman Paul Smith, younger sister, Pamela Jean Anderson and youngest
brother, James Neal Ikard Smith-- all of California.
Upon completion of high school, Dennis attended San Diego University then received his pilot's wings
in 1966 through the US Army Training Command.
He was married to MaryAnn Johnston on June 3, 1967, at the Ft. Rucker Chapel in Alabama where they
began their military career. Dennis was a Vietnam veteran and flew Chinooks in Colorado, Germany
and Hawaii. He retired from Ft. Hood in 1987 after 24 years of service. During his service Dennis
received numerous awards-- some of which include the Bronze Star, Meritorious Service and the Air
Medal with numeral 27. After receiving his honorable discharge, Dennis flew helicopters for various
private oil companies in the Gulf of Mexico and, after 22 years, retired again. He began riding
with the Central Texas Patriot Guard 12 years ago and found a home in their ranks.
He is survived by his wife of 49 years, MaryAnn Smith, his son, Derek B. Smith and daughter-in-law,
Kristi Smith and his eldest 3 granddaughters, Maegan, Maddy and Molly of Oklahoma City; his
daughter, Diedhre K. and son-in-law, Chuck Smack, and his 3 youngest granddaughters, Isabel,
Corinne and Alysse of Belton, TX. Extended family includes Wayne and Nancy Halbrook, Kerry
Fellers, Courtney and David Holley and their children, Brandon and Emma. Knowing Dennis well, meant
that you became part of his extended family--whether you were a fellow rider or a neighbor, he
claimed you and loved you well.
In lieu of condolences, please send all donations to the Wounded Warrior Project in his honor. This
is an organization Dennis believed in and regularly supported.
The following from Derek Smith: Just had his motorcycle inspected and oil changed in anticipation
of a Patriot Guard mission when a careless driver changed lanes and clipped him from behind. They
were approaching highway speeds when he was sent rolling.
True story: he was revived by first responders just long enough for him to ask them to say "please
let my wife know I love her".
He protected his family and provided well for my mom in his absence. He loved his country and his
motorcycle. He passed doing something he loved. We should all be so lucky.
This information was last updated 05/18/2016
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Date posted on this site: 01/11/2025
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