Ernest Darrell Smith

Ernest Darrell Smith age 78 of Phelps, KY., was born on August 26, 1943, in Wildwood, NJ, a son of the late Ernest Wilbur Smith and Maggie Ruth “Hackney” Smith left his earthly home on Friday, June 17, 2022, while in the SICU at Cabell Huntington Hospital in Huntington, WV. He is proceeded in death by his parents and three brothers Donald Smith, Gary David Smith, and Farrell Edward Smith.

Darrell was an Army Veteran, serving two years stationed at West Point, NY as a Corporal. As a Military Policeman, he had the honor of security duty for Vice President Hubert H. Humphrey and escort duty for President and General Dwight David Eisenhower.

Darrell retired in April 2020 as a store merchant, having owned and operated Darrell’s Grocery for 31 years. He also owned Pike County Mine Supply and worked as a supply clerk and purchasing agent for Chisholm Mine.

Darrell was an avid Cincinnati Reds fan, loving the game of baseball. He spent many years coaching softball, T-ball, Little League, and Babe Ruth for the kids in his community. He also loved his Cleveland Browns.

Darrell was the epitome of a family man. He loved having his family and friends around him. He enjoyed the family get-togethers and dinners. Darrell had a smile and a laugh that would light up any room. His positivity and encouragement would lift the spirits of all that knew him.

Darrell is survived by his beloved wife of 51 years, just celebrated June 12th, Sheila Gay “Hatfield” Smith of Phelps, KY. His beloved children in whom he cherished and was so very proud of Carla Denise Mayhorn (Verlin) of Phelps, KY, and Steven Patrick Smith of Morehead, KY. One sister Dixie Lee Fahner of Johnstown, OH; two brothers Arlin James “Sonny” Smith (Rosemary) and Barry Bruce Smith all of Phelps, KY. His precious grandchildren who were the

light of his life, Hannah Brooke Mayhorn, Seth Austin Mayhorn (Elyssa Stanley, fiancé), Fairah Nichelle Smith, and Josephine Fionna “Josie” Smith. He is also survived by a community of family and friends.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Friday, June 24, 2022, beginning at 6:00 p.m. at Jones and West Funeral Home of Phelps, KY. A private Veteran’s tribute will be held for the family at 5:30. Any Family or friend that would like to share memories are welcome to do so.

Darrell’s wishes were to be cremated. His urn will be buried in the Smith Family Cemetery on the hollow of Staggerweed in Smith Fork.

Arrangements are under the direction of Jones & West Funeral Home at Phelps, Kentucky.  Our guestbook may be viewed at www.joneswestfh.com

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