We are heartbroken to share that David Smith, a Royal Junior High School (RJHS) Social Studies teacher, passed away on Saturday, August 22, 2020, leaving an amazing legacy in the Royal community. Mr. Smith served Royal ISD for over 10 years – 8 years at RJHS as a social studies teacher and as a Royal substitute teacher prior to that. Mr. Smith. He was beloved by his students, the RJHS staff, and the entire Royal community.
He is survived by his beloved wife LaQueena and three sons, Marcus, Christian, and Cameron. Please keep his family, friends, and students, in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. We have created a Facebook group to allow his loved ones to share memories about Mr. Smith.
RJHS Principal Orlando Vargas shared the following statement about Mr. Smith’s incredible impact on the Royal community: “In the brief time that I knew Mr. Smith, he had a quiet, yet strong presence with all his students. He had a way of capturing his student's attention with his stories and humor which helped make history come alive in his classroom. He was a compassionate teacher and co-worker who always had time to listen and help others. He was also a man of faith and conviction to his beliefs and will forever hold a special place in the hearts of our teachers and students.”
RJHS teacher Clare Morgan stated, “"His influence is generational...he has made a difference in this world and it will continue for years to come. We will miss his quiet leadership, his generous spirit, his joyful heart, his calming presence and that (un)timely sense of humor. I will forever remember his abundant love and pride for his wife and family, and his smile. We are all better people for having known this unbelievable gentleman.”
A GoFundMe account is available for those who would like to assist Mr. Smith’s family. Click here to view the fundraiser details.
Additional information regarding services will be shared once available.