Harriette Herring Smith

Harriette Herring Smith, a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, went home to be with the Lord at the age of 87 on Saturday September 20, 2025 surrounded by the family. Born on February 14, 1938, in Edinburg, Mississippi, to Robert Maxwell Herring, Jr., and Mattie Lou Bounds Herring. She was born again in 1954 at First Baptist Church, Louisville, Mississippi.

Harriette grew up with the steady virtues of faith, family, and service that would mark the rest of her life. Quiet and behind the scenes yet vital, Harriette was an indispensable partner in her husband's ministry. Her husband often said he could not have served the Lord as well as he did without her steadfast support, prayer, and encouragement.

She helped shape many young lives as a teacher in early education. She was also a faithful homemaker, a devoted mother and was known to her grandchildren by the name "Gangan." Her children, and especially her grandchildren, were her greatest joy in life. She loved each grandchild uniquely; she and her grandson Forrest shared an especially close bond. 

Those who knew Harriette will remember her exceptional cooking, her open door, and her open heart. She almost always made time for everyone and did her very best to understand their perspective-offering kindness, patience, and a listening ear. Although she will be deeply missed, her legacy and love endure in the lives of those she touched-her family, her church, and the many she blessed with quiet acts of service.

Harriette was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, David Bounds Herring and Robert Maxwell Herring III; and her beloved husband of nearly 68 years, Dr. William A. "Billy" Smith. She is survived by her children, Michael and Sandy; Michael's wife, Sheila-Harriette's loving daughter-in-law; her grandchildren, Forrest, Halston, Eden, Ava Grace, and Mary Alice; and her great-grandchildren, Paisley, Wesley, and Grant. 

A graveside service was held in Forest Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery in Saraland, Alabama on Tuesday September 23, 2025.