Obituary for Timothy Dunlap Smith
February 3, 1945 – September 30, 2025

Timothy Dunlap Smith, age 80, passed away in his sleep on September 30, 2025. In keeping with his nature his death was gentle and peaceful.

Tim grew up in Massachusetts and California and attended the University of California, Berkeley. During his college years, he spent his summers fishing in Alaska, an experience that reflected his adventurous spirit and love of the outdoors. After graduating from college, he moved to Vermont, and taught in public schools before discovering his passion for stonemasonry, a skill that would shape the rest of his life.

Tim and his wife, Laura, met in Vermont, where he was working in his stonemasonry business. They later moved to New York City, where Tim worked on building the tower of the Cathedral of St. John the Divine — a project that piqued his interest and appreciation as it was an apprenticeship program that hired local youth. In 1988, they settled in Philmont, New York, where Tim worked for the New York State Department of Parks and Recreation before starting his own business, T.D. Smith Stonemasonry. Through his work, Tim not only built enduring structures but also lasting relationships, mentoring many and sharing his passion for stone and design.

Tim's love for young people never wavered. Through his stonemasonry business, he hired and guided many individuals who came from difficult circumstances, offering them not just work, but hope. As one friend put it, "He gave them skills that enabled them to mold their own futures." His generosity, guidance and faith in others left an enduring mark on his community.

Tim lived a life full of love, appreciation, and adventure. He was warm, light, and endlessly caring. One relative stated, "He never met a stranger." Tim spoke to everyone he met, always with a smile and a kind word. According to a friend, "He touched so many lives, did so much for so many." He had a gift for seeing the bright side of life, no matter the circumstances, and he shared that optimism freely with everyone around him.

His wife and partner Laura often said that before they were married, she knew there would never be a dull moment with him—and she was right. Their life together was a great adventure, filled with joy and deep companionship.

Timothy is survived by his loving wife, Laura Smith; his sons, Tassaday Smith and Eric Johnson (wife Gina Simpson); his brother, Nathaniel Smith (wife Ann Brauer), many nieces, nephews, their children, and many cousins. He was preceded in death by his sister, Holly Smith. His family will forever carry his love and enormous generous spirit in their hearts.

A celebration of Timothy's life will be held in the Spring 2026.  [date] at [location]. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice or Arbor Day Foundation Memorial Trees, Operation Unite New York (operationuniteny.org).

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know him.

To view a tribute to Tim and his work on the Cathedral of Saint John the Divine, please see "Remembering Timothy Smith" on Divine Stone,  https://divinestone.org/blog/remembering-timothy-smith/. For on-line condolences visit wenkfuneralhome.com