Former jockey D.D. Smith dies at 69

Donald “D.D.” Smith, 69, whose riding career in the Mid-Atlantic region spanned three decades, died Oct. 17 in Frederick, Md.

Smith, who rode 1,504 winners during a career that began in the early 1960s and ended in 1989, competed primarily at Penn National, Charles Town, Laurel Park, and Pimlico.

“D.D. was a close friend of mine and a great person to be around,” said Arnie Iliescu, Penn National’s all-time leading jockey. “I have the fondest memories of our time together at Penn National, and he will be sorely missed.”

After retiring from racing, Smith worked as a goldsmith for more than 20 years, including a position as the lead goldsmith at Colonial Jewelers in Frederick, Md., for eight years.

Smith was the son of the late Donald “Pop” Smith and Lucille Smith of Middletown, Md. He is survived by his daughter, Dawn Downing; son-in-law Jeff Downing; and his great granddaughter Megan Nicole Downing.

A celebration of Smith’s life will be held on Sunday, Nov. 3, 2013, from 2 to 4 p.m. on the second floor at Brewer’s Alley in Frederick, Md.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent in Smith’s name to the Hurwitz Breast Cancer Foundation at Frederick Memorial Hospital, 1 South Market Street, Frederick, Md. 2170.