Darwin Smith

Darwin Koyle Smith, age 84, of Kearns, Utah, passed away peacefully at home on December 24, 2025, surrounded by love and family. His life was one of deep faith, devoted service, joyful laughter, and unwavering love for those around him.

Darwin was born on July 7, 1941, in Spanish Fork, Utah, to Robert Ellison Smith and Elva Emily Koyle Smith. He graduated with the first graduating class from Granger High School in 1959 and went on to attend Utah Technical College, where he earned a degree in Electronics. As a young man, he faithfully served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Australia from 1961 to 1963-an experience that shaped his testimony and love for service throughout his life. He always enjoyed telling everyone about the experiences he had in Australia.

Darwin was a devoted patriot, and after serving his mission in Australia, he proudly served his country in the United States Air Force Reserves as Military Police. After completing his service in the Air Force, he continued serving his country by enlisting in the Navy Reserves.

On April 17, 1965, Darwin married his eternal sweetheart, JoAnn Harrison, in the Manti Temple. Together they built a beautiful life, raising seven children and creating a home filled with faith, laughter, and love. JoAnn preceded Darwin in death, and he missed her deeply every day.

Later in life, Darwin found love again and married Jeanne Houghton on January 15, 2011. They were sealed in the Oquirrh Mountain Temple on January 15, 2014. Through this marriage, Darwin was blessed with four bonus children. Darwin and Jeanne also served together on an LDS service mission in Rose Park, Utah, from 2011 to 2012, continuing their shared commitment to faith and service.

Darwin was a devoted and active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints throughout his life. He was very proud to have earned his Eagle Scout. He served faithfully in many callings, but his greatest joy was working with youth in the Scouting program. As a Cubmaster and Scoutmaster, he mentored countless young men, teaching them life skills, a love for the outdoors, and the importance of integrity, service, and fun.

Dancing was one of Darwin's great joys. He and JoAnn served as stake dance directors, teaching youth a variety of dance styles and helping them perform for audiences both large and small. He also loved the outdoors, especially camping, canoeing, and kayaking. With his best friend, Rick Jacobs, Darwin built his own kayaks and enjoyed many adventures on Utah's rivers and lakes. He treasured teaching his children about nature through countless family camping trips and outdoor experiences.

Darwin was truly a friend to everyone. He loved meeting new people, hearing their stories, and sharing a laugh. Quick-witted and full of humor, he always had a joke ready and a smile to give, leaving people feeling lighter for having known him.

Darwin worked in managerial positions, and later in life he was an owner-operator, long-haul truck driver and trainer. He was honored with the Truck Driver Trainer of the Year award. His family affectionately referred to him as the "Truck Driver Missionary," as he shared his testimony and faith with those he trained and met along his travels.

Darwin was preceded in death by his beloved wife JoAnn; his parents; his brothers Wayne and Kurt; his sister Dorthea Smith Cook; and other cherished family members and friends.

He is survived by his loving wife Jeanne; his children Carrie (Denny) Wheeler, Cherrie, Curtis (Danae), Keith, Linda (Matt) Snell, Jonathan, and Emily (Randy) Vaughn; 15 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren; Jeanne's children Dawn (Mary Lawlor) Houghton, Whit (Lisa Hales) Houghton, Jeanne (Scot) PostvanderBurg, and Christina (Scott) Dalton; 14 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren; and his sisters Connie Hall-(Rick)Beard, Orella (Steve) Carver, and Lillian (Dale)Winkler.

Darwin's life was a beautiful example of faith in action. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, service, devotion, and joy that will continue to bless and inspire all who were fortunate enough to know him.

A viewing will be held Monday, January 5, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at McDougal Funeral Home, 4330 South Redwood Road, Taylorsville, Utah. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, January 6, from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m., with a viewing from 10:00-10:45 a.m. at the LDS Chapel, 4715 South 4300 West, Kearns, Utah. Burial will follow at the Spanish Fork Cemetery.