Herbert Smith

Beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and brother-in-law, uncle and friend, Herbert Smith, “slipped the surly bonds of Earth and touched the face of God” (Magee, 1941) on March 30, 2026. He was born on January 22, 1931 as the seventh child and fourth son of Charlie W. and Maggie (Helton) Smith of Spring Creek, Clay County, Kentucky.

Herbert was preceded in death by his wife of 73 years, Nancy (Revis); his son, Eddy; and all seven brothers and sisters: Evelyn, Herman, Omus, Mae, June, Earl and Carl. He is survived by his brother-in-law, Ed (Carol) Revis of Clermont, Florida and sister-in-law, Tennie Smith of Hamilton, Ohio.

He is survived by his daughter, Patricia (Stephen) Terrell; granddaughter, Ashley (Joseph) French, and two great grandchildren, Lincoln and Isabella French.

A man of enduring faith, he dedicated his life to God, serving as a deacon at Midlane Park Baptist Church. He retired from Trimac where he was recognized for over 30 years for driving two million miles plus annually without an accident. He supported his children in the pursuit of their dreams and set an enduring example of kindness to and support of others.

“Popi” grew up working in his family’s business in Clay County: Cutting staves shipped by railroad to Louisville for barrels. He was proud of his parents, brothers and sisters and their strong work ethic in support of each other as well as neighbors in the “holler.’

He discovered reading in his 80’s and books by John Grisham were his favorite. A man of dignity and stubbornness (a treasured Smith family trait), he loved corn, cornbread and soup beans, which he ate with a chaser of chocolate ice cream.

Popi’s funeral will be held on Friday, April 3 with Visitation from 2 – 4 pm and Services at 4 pm at Arch L Heady at Resthaven, 4400 Bardstown Road, Louisville.

The family wishes to express their deepest gratitude and admiration to Popi’s family practitioner, Laith Sweis, MD, doctor extraordinaire, who never gave up despite Popi’s multiple health challenges. Thanks is also expressed to Hosparus/Hospice staff for their care and emotional support.