Darrel Alvin Smith

Darrel Alvin Smith passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of January 1, 2026. He was surrounded and supported by family and left mortality knowing that he was deeply loved by so many family and friends. Darrel is survived by his wife of 58 years Verlynn Sanders Smith. Together, Darrel and Verlynn were parents to six children, Amber Green (Harlen), Ginger Dennett (Ryan), Heather Krambule (Nathan), Natalie Childress (Loney), Steven "Smitty" Smith (Angela Ballew) and Logan Smith. He leaves two sisters, Tanja Hileman(Dan) and Leisa Black (Duane). He also leaves 17 grandchildren who are treasured parts of the family He has 23 great-grandchildren with 2 more coming soon. He is predeceased by his parents Clifton Alvin and Clara Wheeler Smith, brother Sidney Smith and sisters Merrivonne Seamann, Suzanette Crooks, Jackie Smith, Pam Smith and his oldest daughter Amber Green.

Darrel was best known as "Santa Smith" and "MacGyver". He loved both titles. All year was spent preparing for December and various Santa duties. When he donned his Santa hat, his countenance radiated so much joy and love. He loved meeting and interacting with all of the children. He spent many hours over several years designing and building a Santa barrel train that his son-in-law drove so he could make an appearance while riding in the caboose. December 2025 was exceptionally difficult for him because his deteriorating health precluded much of his ability to spread Santa's magic.

His MacGyver skills were legendary. If it needed fixing, maneuvering, or creating he was the man. In a tool chest with thousands of various parts, supplies and tools, he could specifically describe the drawer or corner in which to find the precise item needed for a given task. He could pack and place a myriad of items so they could fit in remarkably small spaces so they could be saved "just in case" he needed them.

Darrel served two missions for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. The first in the Central Atlantic States Mission (Virginia, North and South Carolina) from 1963-1965 and a second with his Sweetheart in the Philippines, Manila Mission from 2009 to 2010. He loved missionary work. Sharing, living and loving the gospel was vital to him. Over the years he served in many positions in the church including Bishoprics, High Councils, Stake Seventy's President, Executive Secretary, teacher, Boy and Cub Scouts of America leader and more.

Darrel worked mostly in management positions with Sears, Vegas Village, Deseret Industries, Frontier Ford (owner) and others. He spent several years working with Sanders Construction in various positions. After retirement he enjoyed working on his life-long love, automobiles. Darrel was a mechanic from the beginning. He owned nearly 100 vehicles during his life and many of them were "fixer uppers". His 1974 Ford Bronco was his crowning glory. He could name any vehicle on sight by make, model, and year. He was happiest discussing the Gospel or engine calibrations and vehicle related topics.

His kind, gentle, loving nature will be greatly missed. In 58 years of marriage he happily announced he and Verlynn never had an argument. He was correct, but Verlynn attributes this to his refusal to fight back. We love you so very much Darrel and know your reunion with your family and especially your daughter, Amber was joyous.

Funeral services will be at the LDS Palo Verde Chapel at 401 Palo Verde Dr. In Henderson, NV on Saturday, January 10, 2026. The viewing will be from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. with services beginning at noon. Interment will be in Cedar City, Utah, on Monday, January 12, 2026 also at noon MST.