We celebrate the life of Derek (Pete) Eugene Smith, son of Butch Brown and the late Renee Smith. Derek was born in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

He received his formal education in the Harrisburg School District and graduated with his General Education Diploma in 1980.

Pete as he was affectionately called and known within his community, to be a loving Husband, Father, Pop Pop, Brother, Uncle and Friend to many. He loved hard and always wanted to protect others he cared about, especially his family. Pete enjoyed spending time with his wife, grandkids, family and friends.

In his leisure time, he was known for counseling others about life, family and choices that can be life changing. Pete loved watching the Matrix and Harry Potter. He was an avid sports fan of the Washington Commanders and the Boston Celtics. He was an advocate for change and speaking to young men and standing in the gap. Many of his accomplishments were volunteering with Men United Standing Together (M.U.S.T), Breaking the Chainz, Inc. and Crime Survivors for Safety and Justice at a Local, State and National Level. Pete was a man who was wise and full of knowledge; he lived his life on his terms and always voiced how grateful he was that “God” gave him so many chances. Leading up to his transition, his quest was seeking God and attending the United Baptist Church, with close friends. Pete’s mission was to make amends with all those he loved, his Heart was “Big”.

During his working career he enjoyed serving as a forklift operator for various warehouses before becoming ill. His gifts and talents were later offered through volunteering.

On July 1, 2025, at the age of 62 years, Derek (Pete) Eugene Smith transitioned into eternal life at UPMC Harrisburg in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, surrounded by his loved ones and friends.

He was preceded in death by those he loved, son, Raheem Neely; grandmother, Betty Wade; mother, Renee Smith and his beloved sister, Dana Brown.

Pete leaves to celebrate his legacy and a message of hope; his beautiful and devoted wife, Donna Jean Smith; his sons, Lawrence Bethea, Derek Spriggs, Jamil Jones and Khalil Smith; his daughter, Tyhonna Smith; his nieces, Ashia Elliott (Derrick) and Anisah Brown; his nephew/sons, Terell Smith, Nafiz and Naim Brown; his siblings, Samiyah Wilson, Monica and Henry Potts; brothers-in-law, Calvin (Carla) and Mike Hollman; his sister and dear friend, Valerie Dolphin; his aunty that he adored, Rosie Motes; 14 grandchildren and a host of family and friends.

His life will be celebrated at 12 Noon on Thursday, July 10, 2025 in the Sanctuary of Mt. Calvary Church of God In Christ, 1830 N. 5th Street, Harrisburg with viewing and visitation from 10:00 a.m. until 12 Noon.