Herman Smith

Herman Earl Smith, 66, passed away Monday, November 3, 2025 at his home in Zebulon. He was born January 28, 1959 in Harnett County to the late Willis “Sam” and Martha Smith. He was one of five children.

During his early working years, Herman worked for Ricky Anderson Masonry and Creech Enterprises. However, his long time career was farming. He worked for various farmers in the area, even traveling to Tennessee to work on the Burley Tobacco market. He later found his farm “home” with Upchurch Farms in Zebulon, where he worked for over 37 years. Throughout this time, Herman became family to the Upchurches. He enjoyed picking on the Upchurch girls during their childhood years, and continued the tradition when the grandkids came along — always ready to pass out a Moon Pie.

Herman enjoyed growing and taking care of his squash and tomato plants, offering to share his harvest with others. Fishing was his favorite hobby, mostly in local ponds but occasionally at the beach. He enjoyed eating the fresh fish he caught. When we got snow in the winter, you could be sure to find Herman riding the car hood or playing with the kids in the snow. There was one thing about it, Herman never met a stranger. Often times in the morning, you could find him sitting on the window sill outside the Shop-N-Go store. He would spend most of his time hanging out in the shop or cruising around the farm, whether that be on a tractor, gator, mini-bike, or four wheeler. He would always find a way to get around. If you were working on something, Herman always told you exactly what you needed to do to fix it, he didn’t mind putting his two cents in. A friend to many, Herman was a kind man who was always happy to help out the friends-turned-family that he loved. It wasn’t uncommon for him to call and check on what his “knuckleheads” were up to if he hadn’t seen them in a few days. He will truly be missed around the farm everyday, and loved forever!

He is survived by his brothers: Ricky Smith (Virginia) and Randy Smith (Sherrica Sanders); nieces/nephews: Bianca, Brenda, Angie, Natasha, Leanna, Dianna, April, Sheila, Keisha, Maurice, Sincere, Elijah, Cherish, Miracle; special cousins: Charles, Betty, Nichole; long-time family friends: Jeffrey & Ginny Upchurch, Jenna & Andrew Privette (Charlie Kate, Tucker, Bodie), Jamie & Tyler Wilson.

In addition to his parents, Herman was preceded in death by his sister: Delores Smith, brother: Willie Smith, and long-time family friend: James “Pops” Upchurch.

A viewing to celebrate his life will be held 5-7pm on Tuesday, November 11, 2025 at Sanders Funeral Home, 806 E Market St., Smithfield.