Darla Smith

Darla Louise Smith, age 67 of Beavercreek, passed away Monday, February 9, 2026 at her home. She was born August 21, 1958 in Dayton, Ohio the eldest daughter of four siblings to Vernon and Hazel Wasser.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her loving husband, Samuel David Smith and siblings, Jeffrey Wayne Wasser and Craig Wasser.

Darla is survived by her daughter, Jessica Nicole (Scarlett) Smith; grandchildren, Salem Smith and Isabella Smith; sister, Lisa Mae Wasser and the 49er's Faithful as well as many other loved ones.

Darla graduated from Sinclair Community College in 1997, but her path there was hard-won. While in nursing school, she cared for her father after his stroke, worked third shift at Waffle House to support her family, and faced her own diagnosis of cervical cancer, pausing school for treatment. Once cancer free, she returned, even more determined to finish what she started. Her daughter, Jessica, attended class with her at times and inspired by her mother's strength and devotion to caring for others, chose a life of service herself.

Jessica marveled at her mother's ability to juggle it all with little to no sleep. Darla's nursing career reflected that same strength and determination she began her career at Heartland of Kettering, then served in the emergency room and ICU at Miami Valley Hospital, and later as a charge nurse in the emergency room at Grandview Hospital, somehow managing to hold all of these roles at times. She loved the intensity of trauma nursing, the chaos, the complexity, and the challenge of saving lives. A fast thinker with strong clinical instincts, she made critical decisions that saved countless lives.

Her daughter remembers treasured moments at Frisch's after long shifts, filled with stories of heroism so vivid she would sometimes have to ask her mom to save the gory details until after she finished breakfast.

Darla's remarkable career ended unexpectedly after a serious back injury obtained while attempting to work during an ice storm. Though forced to medically retire, she never stopped caring. Her most personal act of service came as she lovingly cared for her husband during his battle with ALS; helping him pass peacefully at home. Even after losing her sight due to complications from diabetes, she continued to give through charitable acts and quiet service.

The legacy of caring runs deep in Darla's family, her father was a WWII medic, her brother, Jeffrey, a nurse, and that legacy lives through her beloved daughter, Jessica, who grew up watching her mother selflessly care for others, devoted her own life to health and holistic healing. Her legacy extends through her grandchildren as well, who found growth through her generosity, advocacy and devotion to help others and animals.

Darla, always a caretaker, forever a nurse.

Per Darla's wishes, there will be no services held at this time.