Herbert E Smith

Rev. Dr. Herbert Eugene Smith was born on July 12, 1937, to Daniel and Vernice Smith in Grayson County, Texas. He attended school in Marlin, Texas, and later proudly served his country in the United States Navy, receiving an honorable discharge. Known throughout his life as a skilled carpenter, Rev. Dr. Smith also answered the call to preach the Gospel and faithfully taught God’s Word for more than 48 years, until his health began to fail. He pastored churches in both Arkansas and Oklahoma and retired on April 5, 2026, after 19 years of devoted service at The Rose Hill Missionary Baptist Church in Idabel, Oklahoma.

Rev. Dr. Smith had a deep love for the Lord and leaves behind a lasting legacy of biblical knowledge, faithful service, and compassion for others. He had a special heart for helping young preachers and all who were in need of his guidance and support. He was well known as a friend to both male and female preachers, and his kindness and wisdom touched many lives.

Along with his devotion to ministry, Rev. Dr. Smith will be remembered for his warm personality and sense of humor. When someone would say, “Smith, you think you know everything,” he would often reply, “What I don’t know, you can put in a thimble.”

He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife, Dr. Vera Smith, whom he affectionately called “Baby,” and who lovingly called him “Baby” in return; his son, Ollis Ezell of the home; two daughters, Valerie Ezell and Althea Davis of Edmond, Oklahoma; five sisters-in-law; five brothers-in-law; and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. He is also lovingly remembered by his 100-year-old mother-in-law, who called him “her son” and “her pastor”; the Willis family; his blood family; and his special friend, Dr. Darnell Wagner.