Major Herbert "Herb" L. Smith Jr., Ret. 86, of Lake Placid, Florida passed away peacefully on November 21, 2023, his daughter by his side.

Born on June 8, 1937, in Canonsburg, Pa. to the late Herbert L. Sr. and Anna M. Smith (Cook). He graduated from Hannibal, NY High School. His education continued at the University of Miami, Dade Jr. College, Beaux Beauty School as well as SUNY Oswego, graduating with a BA in Fine Arts.

He entered the Army in 1960. In June 1961, Herb married the love of his life Elizabeth "Beth" A. Harrington.  During his time in the Army, he completed extensive military training. He served as Battery Commander of the Nike Hercules Nuclear base in Los Angeles, CA, and in Vietnam as a Captain. He then served as S-3 officer range command at Fort Bliss, TX. He continued his career with the Army National Guard and attained the rank of Major in 1976. After Herb retired from the United States Army he continued his service to his community as a Civil Defense director for both Wayne County, NY and later Martin County, FL.

Herb loved sailing, painting, playing the guitar, dancing, visiting family, church services, and captivating all with his storytelling. He was known for his positive, outgoing, and humorous nature as well as his vast, interesting, and storied life.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 37 years, Beth as well as his siblings Moretta (Charles) Demm, John and Wayne Smith, in-laws, Francis, Dorothy and Patricia Harrington, Brenda Smith, Cherie and Bradford Snow.

He is survived by his children, Lecia Riccelli (James) and Herbert Smith III (Carolyn); grandchildren Sean and Brennan Smith; siblings William and Warren (Vicki) Smith and in-laws; Jean Smith, William and Francis (Rosanna) Harrington as well as many nieces and nephews.

Please join us in honoring his legacy of love, laughter, duty, and adventure on Monday, November 27, 2023, from 4-6 pm at Nelson Funeral Home, 11 W. Albany St. Oswego NY.  A funeral service will be held at 11 am on Tuesday the 28th at Nelson Funeral Home. Following the service, Herb will be laid to rest next to his Bethy at Fairdale Cemetery in Hannibal, NY. In honor of Herb, contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project.