Brian Leonard Smith

Brian Leonard Smith, affectionately known as “Smitty”, was born on January 21, 1949 to the
late Theodore Noble Smith and Ruth Branch Smith. He was the second of three children.
Brian peacefully transitioned from this life to eternal rest on January 18, 2025.

A proud Washington, D.C. native, Brian was educated in the D.C. public school system,
attending John Burroughs Elementary, Taft Junior High and McKinley Technical High School.
He furthered his education at Florida A&M University, where he studied music, and the
University of the District of Columbia, before enlisting in the United States Navy.

Brian served his country with distinction, beginning his Navy career in 1979 at the age of 30.
Over the next four years, he served as navigator on various U.S. Navy vessels from submarines
to destroyers, gaining expertise in navigation, damage control and fire fighting. After 20 years
of service he retired as Navigator, Special Warfare Boat Captain, Leading Petty Officer Harbor
Operations Division, Sworn Law Enforcement Officer.

Following his military career, Brian worked as a civilian for the Institute for Defense Analyses
(IDA) as a Security Officer. After 16 years of service, he retired with recognition for his
exemplary organizational skills, attention to detail, professionalism, and dedication. He earned
the respect of his colleagues and was valued as an integral part of the IDA community.
Brian had a deep love for nature and animals, a passion that began in childhood and lasted
throughout his life. He regularly adopted pets, often taking in those others could not or did not
want. As he grew older, his adopted animals became larger, but they all knew love and care
once they entered his home.

In addition to caring for animals, Brian had many hobbies. He was a sports fanatic, particularly
good at tennis, affording him scholarship opportunities. He was a gadget enthusiast, always
working on some project. He loved boating, fishing, golfing, gardening, riding motorcycles and
listening to jazz. When not engaged in these activities, he enjoyed spending time with friends
or hosting cookouts. Brian also considered his close friends to be part of his “Chosen Family,”
and he treasured the time spent traveling and making memories with them.

Brian was preceded in death by his parents, Theodore and Ruth Smith, and brother Alan Smith.
Left to cherish his memory are his son, Theolonious Smith (Laura); granddaughter, Marlow Jean
Smith; sister, Christine Jennings; nephews Karun Koernig and Bryce Jennings; niece, Tenaja
Jennings; and a host of cousins and friends. He will also be dearly missed by his loyal
companions, Duke the dog, and Doc the macaw, who will forever be grateful for his love and
care.

Brian’s legacy of service, kindness, and devotion to his family, friends, and animals will
continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

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