Dr. Herman W. Smith

Dr. Herman Walden Smith, age 93, died on August 27, 2026. Herman was born February 9, 1933, in Fayetteville, North Carolina, to Arnold and Nellie Smith.

For 65 years, Herman shared a beautiful life with his wife, Dolores, that began in the city of New York. Their marriage was filled with love and adventure, and they enjoyed traveling together, with Hawaii holding a special place in their hearts. Herman served in the Army for several years and often traveled to North Carolina to visit cherished family and friends. A man of many passions, he loved a good game of golf and was deeply devoted to his work as a research chemist, developing more than 100 patents throughout his career. He also generously shared his knowledge and experience through service on numerous professional and community boards, always eager to support and encourage others. Above all, Herman will be remembered for his deep love of family and friends, his passion for his profession, his commitment to lifelong learning, and his unwavering kindness, leaving behind a lasting legacy of hard work, compassion, and purpose.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Dr. Rudolph V. Smith, and several uncles and aunts.

Surviving are his wife, Dolores Smith; children: Lisa Smith; siblings: Rev. Gloria Downs (Calvin), Wilbur Hussey; and many nieces and nephews.

Celebrate Herman’s life online by sharing your favorite stories and photos on his dedicated webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com.