Obituaries

Former Farmington Valley Chorale Director Donald R. Smith Dies

Mr. Smith led group for 26 years

Donald R. Smith, 69, died peacefully at home in Burlington on Friday, August 16. Born November 12, 1943 in Stafford Springs, son of the late Donald Smith and Harriet Smith Mayes, he resided in Burlington for over 40 years. He attended Canton High School, Western Connecticut State University and Temple University.

Don taught music for many years at Region 10 Schools.

In 1981, Don become director of the Farmington Valley Chorale and increased its size and quality over 26 years until he retired in 2007. His singers will always remember his wonderful stories of his dog Thatcher and his personal fondness for each member. Don served as organist and choir director at Burlington Congregational Church where he encouraged the congregational singing from his bench in the balcony.

Don is survived by his siblings, Natalie Bean and husband Dana of GA; Debra Mayes of CT; Sara Kleemeyer and husband Bill of NJ; Peter Mayes and wife Debra of SC, and Paul Mayes and wife Elayne of NJ, his best friend John Mikolajcik, his aunt Jean Smith of Hazardville, numerous nieces and nephews and his wonderful friends. Memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, KS or Farmington Valley Chorale, Sara Martinelli, 39 Woodside Circle, Simsbury, CT 06070


This obituary was submitted by the family. 


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