Hershel Boyd Smart

Hershel Boyd Smart, age 89, of Rainbow City, Alabama, passed away peacefully at his home on January 10, 2025. Born on August 1, 1935, to Herbert B. Smart and Ruby S. Wilkinson, Boyd led a life defined by service, dedication, and love.

Boyd served his country for 22 years as a proud military veteran, retiring from the U.S.A.R. He also devoted 38 years of his life to Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company, retiring in 1996.

As an avid fisherman, he cherished time spent on the lake surrounded by friends and loved ones. He was an active member of White Springs Baptist Church where he formed lifelong friendships within his church family.

Boyd is preceded in death by his parents, Herbert B. Smart and Ruby S. Wilkinson, his sisters Jean S. Rodgers and Martha S. Thomas, his brother Donald Smart, and his in-laws W.A. and Jewell McDaniel.

He leaves behind his beloved wife of 51 years, Peggy M. Smart; his brother, Rodrick Smart; daughter, Sandra Starnes (Danny); and grandson, Micah Starnes.

Lynn Susanto (Louis); Chris Buckelew (Sheila); and a host of other beloved nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends on January 16, at Collier Butler Funeral Home from 11:30 to 12:30 with funeral services immediately following at 12:30. Officiating will be Rev. Jonathan Rodgers and Dr Chris Terrell. Boyd will be laid to rest in the Alabama National Cemetery, 3133 Highway 119, Montevallo, Alabama.

Honorary Pallbearers: The King’s Men Sunday School Class; Ken Pike, Carl Cooper, Ray Ingle, James Whitaker, Nick Greehaw, Bobby Cosby, Jimmy McMurray and Deacon, Gary Couch.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to White Springs Baptist Church in Boyd’s memory.

May he rest in peace, and may his memory be a blessing to all who knew him.