Herbert Martin Smith, Sr

Mr. Herbert M. Smith, Sr. age79 of DeFuniak Springs passed away Tuesday, July 8, 2014 at the family residence. He was born June 7, 1935 in Milford, Ohio the son of William Benjamin Smith and Anna Louise Carter Smith. Herb moved to the Santa Rosa Beach area in 1984 after visiting his friend “Ken”. He worked at Elrod’s Fishing Camp as a fishing guide until Elrod’s death. He and his family then moved to Freeport where they lived a few years until buying their home in DeFuniak Springs twenty five years ago. Herb worked most of his life as a heavy equipment operator in the concrete industry. In retirement he loved to fish and he always had a tremendous love for dogs, often saying “dogs were more trustworthy than humans”. He was a true fan of John Wayne movies, enjoyed Two and a Half Men and hardly ever missed an episode of NCIS. Just about every morning he was faithfully tuned in to W-ZEP, 1460 A.M. for The Country Store. Herb will be remembered as a “people person”, a guy who went out of his way to help folks, especially those that were down on their luck. This husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather will be remembered by his family for his great sense of humor and his love for each of them. He is predeceased by his siblings and his grandson Tommy.

Among survivors are his wife, Judy Smith. His son, Herbert Martin Smith, Jr. His daughters, Beverly Smith Fein, Sharon Smith Baker, Lisa Davis, Susan Akers and Cathy Coffman. Fourteen grandchildren, Melissa, Jamie, Angie, Amber, Ryonn, Jeremy, Noah, Timothy, Travis, Dana, Tyler, Viola, Laura and Torrie. Twenty six great grandchildren also survive.

Floral arrangements are being accepted. Friends and family will gather in Jerry Evans Chapel, Saturday, July 12, 2014 at 11:00 A.M. for a time of remembrance.