WAYNE D. SMITH

SALISBURY — Wayne D. Smith, 76, of Salisbury passed away at his home unexpectedly on Sunday, March 16, 2025. Wayne was born in Vergennes on June 1, 1948, the son of Guy and Marilyn (Sprague) Smith. He grew up on the family farm in Bridport as a 6th-generation Vermonter. He married Carolyn Wimett after high school, and they moved to the house in Salisbury where they raised their two children. In April 1996 he married a long-time family friend, Diane (Denis) Audet. Together they raised Diane’s daughter and later welcomed grandchildren.

Wayne worked for several farm-related businesses after leaving Bridport including Red Rose Feeds and Cartmell’s. In his 30s he decided to work for himself and created Wayne D. Smith and Associates. He spent many years taking care of properties around Lake Dunmore and Fern Lake. He also drove school buses for many years and enjoyed his time with various sports teams.

Wayne was active over the years in many organizations, including the VTPA, Addison County Fair & Field Days, and Salisbury Volunteer Fire Department. He served as Salisbury Town Moderator and Salisbury Town Selectman.

For many years Wayne decorated his lawn with thousands of lights and other Christmas decorations. He referred to it as his present to the community. He continued this until 2023 and enjoyed the visitors who would drive by each year.

Wayne is survived by his wife, Diane; his son Dennis (Beth) of Middlebury; his daughter, Amy (Stephen) of Leicester; his stepdaughter, Renee (Sam) Carpenter of Orwell; his grandson, Sam Smith; and his granddaughters Lily and Phoebe Smith and Becca Carpenter. He is also survived by his sister Minda Bagley, and many nieces and nephews.

Per Wayne’s wishes there will be no calling hours or funeral. There will be a private service for family members at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Wayne’s name to Addison County Fair & Field Days or a local charity of your choice.

Arrangements under the director of Sanderson-Ducharme Funeral Home. Online condolences at: www.sandersonfuneralservice.com. ◊