Harold Edward Smith Jr.

Harold Edward Smith Jr., 79, passed away peacefully on May 11, 2026, at Peabody Retirement Community in North Manchester, Indiana. Born on April 24, 1947, in Oneida, Tennessee, Harold was the son of the late Harold Edward Smith Sr. and Clara Juanita O’Neil Hamby.

He graduated from Elmhurst High School in 1965 and soon after enlisted in the United States Marine Corps through the buddy system. Following boot camp, Harold was deployed to Vietnam, where he proudly served three tours and became the youngest sergeant in his unit. After six years of honorable service, he was honorably discharged, carrying with him a lifelong pride in being a Marine veteran.

On June 9, 1974, Harold married the love of his life, Renaye Smith, with whom he shared many devoted years until her passing. Harold worked faithfully for NIPSCO until his retirement in 2007. Retirement allowed him to fully embrace his love of golf, which became one of his greatest passions. He enjoyed spending time on the course with friends and especially treasured golfing alongside his son at Coyote Creek Country Club, where he was a proud member. Harold also enjoyed playing softball, trips to Las Vegas, and making lasting memories with family and friends.

He is survived by his sons, Ryan (Lydia) Roehling of Norco, California and Richard (Traci) Roehling of Columbia City, Indiana; his cherished grandchildren, Bryce Roehling, Savannah Roehling, Shaina (Ethan) Marsh, and Garrett Roehling; his beloved great-grandchildren, Saylor and Parker Marsh; and his siblings, Lynne (Curt) Hawkins, Kenny (Rhonda) Smith, and Kelley (Martin) Satalino.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Renaye Smith; and his sister, Ali Mullins.

Friends and family are invited to gather for the committal and burial at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at Covington Memorial Gardens Cemetery, 8408 Covington Road, Fort Wayne, Indiana 46804.

Following the committal service, family and friends are welcome to join in a celebration of Harold’s life at Coyote Creek Country Club.

Memorial contributions may be made in Harold’s honor to the Fort Wayne Humane Society.

Arrangements have been entrusted to D.O. McComb and Sons Covington Knolls Funeral Home, Fort Wayne, Indiana.