Dennis Allen Smith, 82

Dennis Allen Smith, 82, of Boyertown, PA, went home to his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, March 22, 2023, at Lehigh Valley Hospital. Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, Dennis graduated from Heidelberg College with a degree in biology and health and physical education, where he was also a member of the basketball team. During his time at Heidelberg, Dennis met the love of his life and wife of 58 years, Rebecca Jane (Schlingman) Smith. Dennis and Becky remained in Tiffin, Ohio, for several years and added a daughter, Stephanie, to their family during that time. Dennis served as a teacher and coach in Ohio for 12 years before relocating his family to eastern Pennsylvania and moving on to a career as a pharmaceutical sales representative with Searle Pharmaceuticals and later, Pfizer.

Dennis had a passion for studying history, particularly World War II aviation. He acquired his private pilot’s license and enjoyed flying and attending airshows. He was also a second degree black belt in Shotokan Karate and was a sensei for several years. Additionally, Dennis was a Biblical scholar and served as an elder, first at Hope Community Church, Gilbertsville, and in his later years at Morning Star Fellowship, Bechtelsville, where he also led the prayer ministry.

Dennis was predeceased by his parents, Mildred (Betz) Smith and Elwood Smith, as well as a brother, Edward Smith. Dennis is survived by his loving wife, Rebecca (Schlingman) Smith, his daughter Stephanie (Smith) Landis and her husband Robert Landis, as well as his two granddaughters, of whom he was incredibly proud, Taylor and Cassidy Landis. He is also survived by his sister, Judith (Smith) Kennedy and her husband, Charles Kennedy, his brother-in-law David Schlingman and his wife Nancy Schlingman, his sister-in-law Sherry Smith, as well as several nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at Morning Star Fellowship, 100 Limekiln Road, Bechtelsville, PA, 19505, at 11am on Saturday, May 6, 2023. Family will receive guests at the church prior to the service from 10-11am. Donations may be made to Morning Star Fellowship in lieu of flowers.

Add My Condolences

I was doing a search for Dennis and learned of this. I am an example of someone who was strongly influenced by Dennis. I have been missing him for several years now. I know he is with the Lord and I will see him again. All my love to Becky and his family.

~ John E Townsend
3/14/2024 11:59:40 PM

My sincere condolences to you, Becky, and your family. ????

~ Amy Purcell Zionsville, PA
4/30/2023 7:17:31 PM

So very sorry to hear about Mr. Smith. He was a favorite teacher of ours at Attica High School.

~ Jim and Lucy Spencer
4/22/2023 12:01:40 PM

Becky & family, so sorry to hear the loss of Dennis. Randy & myself prayers are with you and family.

~ Randy, Gayle Trout
4/20/2023 4:54:08 AM

Becky, I am so sorry to read about Dennis' passing. I know you shared so many great years & memories together & you're missing him terribly. My thoughts are with you, Stephanie & family. Love, Patty

~ Patty Eberhard
4/19/2023 11:16:39 PM

We love Dennis like a Father. A man of integrity, wit, and faithful. He always brought brightness wherever he went. He always honored the Holy Spirit and never lost site of Jesus and His word. Steady as the Rock he stood on Jesus Christ . He’ll be missed Especially for Russ at the Campfire and gatherings at Richey and Terri’s… for me the way he encouraged Russ’s worship and the freedom that brought in His presence. He loved his Becky, Stephanie and the girls were the Apple of his eye. We send our love and prayers to you all.

~ Russ and Nadine Gustafson
3/28/2023 8:33:58 PM

Sorry to hear of Denny's passing. Lots of good memories to share

~ Robert Eilert Bradenton, FL
3/28/2023 5:45:31 AM

Great teacher, karate instructor and role model that helped changed my life path. Prayers to your family.

~ Jeffery Watson McCutchenville, OH
3/26/2023 9:15:31 PM

Stephanie and family, we are so sorry to hear of the passing of your father. It was a beautiful obituary. He sounded like a remarkable man. Kelly and Tom Koch

~ Kelly Koch
3/26/2023 1:12:42 PM

So sorry to hear of your father’s passing. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

~ Diane & Kevin O’Neill Barto, PA
3/25/2023 9:56:19 PM

Our deepest condolences. Dennis was such an influence on both of us and truly a Godly man. He will be missed. Prayers for Becky and Stephanie especially

~ Katy and Bob Nolan Boyertown, PA
3/25/2023 6:53:35 PM

Dear Becky and family! I am so sorry for the loss of Dennis! We have been friends for many years and I will always remember the happy memories that I have of that time. My deepest sympathy goes out to the family at this sad time. Love to all of you! Jean

~ Regina R Autullo Mount Pleasant, SC
3/25/2023 2:04:17 PM

Our deepest condolences to Becky and family. He was a wonderful Godly man and he will be missed.

~ Janet Reid Gilbertsville, PA
3/25/2023 9:24:40 AM

Becky and family,
My deepest condolences on your loss. Dennis was a wonderful man and he will be missed by many.
Love,
Kristie L, Hill

~ Kristie Hill Barto, PA
3/25/2023 8:56:36 AM

Dennis and I discussed many times aviation/military history and he was knowledgeable on the subjects! I will miss him!

~ David Walters Boyertown, PA
3/24/2023 6:12:03 PM

My utmost condolences to everyone in his family.
As a martial arts student of his for years and as a church member at Morning Star I have always had the most respect for him and truly loved him. As my Sensei the respect was very strong. At Morning Star he told me one day his name was Dennis and I just replied “Yes Sir Mr. Smith”. I could never do that as his student. That love and respect is forever.

~ Ozzie Mest
3/24/2023 5:15:36 PM

So sorry for your loss but celebrating with Dennis on his promotion. He is and will always be a father in the faith and an example of selfless love and devotion.

~ Bruce and Terri Steuben, ME
3/24/2023 4:29:28 PM