James David Rowell, age 82, of Smithfield, Utah, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family.

Born on December 11, 1943, in Douglas, Georgia, he was the son of Thearis Rowell and Renna Carver.

David graduated from Coffee County High School in Douglas, Georgia, and went on to earn a master’s degree from Pepperdine University. He spent part of his career working for the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, where he was known for his exceptional work in gang-related crime. During his time there, David received multiple awards, including the Distinguished Service Award, which he was especially proud of. After retirement, he focused on helping reform the criminal justice education system and teaching and training future generations in the field.

On August 5, 1967, David married Geralyn Baldwin. Together, they shared 24 years of marriage and raised two children, Jimmy and Jordan, until her passing on August 3, 1991. On April 13, 1995, David married Nancy Bradshaw Parker. Together, they spent the next 31 years raising five children: Ryan, Michael, Jared, Savannah, and Kenny.

As a father, David was dependable, loving, and always present. He made time for all of his children’s hobbies and loved supporting them in their interests. David enjoyed the outdoors and cherished family camping trips, instilling that same love of nature in many of his children.

Faith and family were at the center of David’s life. He found joy in serving others, supporting those around him, and sharing the values and beliefs that guided him throughout his life.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy; his children, Jimmy, Jordan, Ryan, Michael, Jared, Savannah, and Kenny; and many grandchildren, whom he adored.

A viewing will be held on Friday, May 29, 2026, at the Smithfield LDS Church, located at 155 W. 400 North, Smithfield, Utah, from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., followed by funeral services at 11:00 a.m. The service will be livestreamed and can be accessed below.

Interment will be in the Wellsville Cemetery.

DISCLAIMER: WE DO NOT PAN THE CROWD AND THE CAMERA IS FIXED UPON THE PULPIT. WE WILL TRY AND LIVESTREAM THE FUNERAL SERVICE. IF WE ARE UNABLE TO DO SO, DUE TO THE INTERNET SERVICE AT THE CHURCH, A RECORDING WILL BE UPLOADED WITHIN 24-48 HOURS AFTER THE SERVICE.