Herbert Michael Smith's Obituary
Decatur-Herbert Michael Smith, 86, of Decatur, passed away at 9:12 a.m. Monday, February 23, 2009 in his residence surrounded by his family.
Services to celebrate Herbert’s life will be 10: 30 a.m. Thursday, February 26, 2009 at Tabernacle Baptist Church, 650 N. Wyckles Road, with Pastor Dennis Blankenship officiating. Visitation will be from 9:30-10:30 a.m. Thursday at the church. Interment with military honors conducted by the Macon County Honor Guard and “Flight Home” Ceremony will be in Graceland Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Tabernacle Baptist Church. Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home is assisting the family with these arrangements.
Herbert was born January 20, 1923 in Shobonier, Illinois the son of Earl and Ethel Smith. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during W.W. II., where he was a prisoner of war. He was a welder with the Wabash and Norfolk and Southern Railroad, retiring after thirty-two years of service. He was a member of Tabernacle Baptist Church. He enjoyed traveling, bowling, fishing, and eating at the Cracker Barrel. He married Juanita Pauline Knight June 25, 1942 in St. Charles, Missouri. She preceded him in death on December 23, 1994.
He leaves behind his son; William Earl Smith and companion Betty Drone of Decatur, daughters; Sharon Frye of Decatur, and Beverly Trueblood and husband Lester of Decatur; fourteen grandchildren, thirty-one great-grandchildren, and twenty-one great-great-grandchildren.
He was reunited in heaven with his parents, wife, brother, and sister.
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