Douglas “Chico” Smith, a man of deep woods, wide-open skies, and an even deeper heart, passed away unexpectedly on July 3, 2025, in Jordan, New York.

To know Chico was to feel at home — whether you were sitting beside him on a riverbank or learning how to tie your first lure under his careful guidance. He was a teacher, a listener, a steady presence in a changing world.

An avid hunter and fisherman, Chico felt most alive in the great outdoors.  Whether walking though quiet woods or casting a line, he found peace in nature’s beauty.  He had a deep respect for wildlife and the land – values that shaped the way he lived and connected with the world.

Because he was a kid at heart, Chico could charm any child into sharing things no one else knew. He had a quiet way of connecting — through humor, trust, and the kind of listening that made people feel seen. He didn’t just share his knowledge of fishing, hunting, and the land; he taught patience, forgiveness, and how to meet life with a smile — even when it got tough. Chico had a way of showing people that no matter how rough the waters, things would get better, if you stayed still long enough to feel the current shift.

A true steward of nature, Chico honored every creature, every season. He hunted with respect, fished with care, and walked the woods like a man who belonged to them. He gave freely — of his time, his talents, and his heart.

 Chico was also a gifted artist whose creativity knew no bounds. He expressed himself through his many talents from custom made fishing lures, stained glass creations including custom artwork, and his well-known copper bracelets.

Doug was predeceased by his parents Douglas and Helen Flaherty Smith.

He is survived by his loving sisters, Joan Barrigar and her family, and Ibby (Allen) Stofer and her family in California, his niece and nephew by his sister Helen McCann (deceased)and many friends and neighbors whose lives he touched with quiet grace.

A memorial celebration of Chico’s life will be held at the Christ Episcopal Church, N. Main St., Jordan, New York on Tuesday, July 15th, with calling hours from 5 -7 p.m. ending with prayer service at 7 p.m. where stories will be shared, memories honored, and his incredible life remembered. 

In lieu of donations, please take a child fishing, forgive someone, smile at a stranger — and give back to the earth he so deeply loved.

Though he left us far too soon, we believe Chico is now pursuing the golden hues and warm breezes he’s found in Heaven.

Rest easy, Chico. You were one of the good ones. The woods remember you — and so do we.