Hubert Smith

Hubert Smith, 91, of Byron, IL, passed away peacefully on November 20, 2021, joining his wife, Freda, in eternal rest on the date of their 67th wedding anniversary.
Born in Walnut Ridge, Arkansas, to parents Allen and Edith (Holman) Smith. He served in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War, earning a Purple Heart. He moved to Rockford, IL, in 1953 and married Freda Chastain on November 20, 1954.
Dad’s work ethic was second to none. He retired from what was then known as John S. Barnes/Haldex after over 40 years of service. When he wasn’t taking us to baseball or football practices and games, or spending time with the entire family, you would find him on a body of water. Fishing was his passion. Fishing with his brother-in-law, Wayne Swinney, or family friend, Stan Miller. Dad looked forward to our annual spring fishing trip to Alabama. Two years ago while fishing in Alabama, a conservation officer pulled up to our brother-in-law’s boat to check their licenses. He said he just checked another boat that had an 88 year old fisherman, our dad. Dad was able to take two more annual fishing trips to Alabama.
Hubert is survived by sons, Terry (Robin) Smith and Rick (Michele) Smith; daughter, Susan (Steve) Borcherts; grandchildren, Matthew Smith, Lindsay (Nate) Hays, Rachel (Mark) Samuelson, Renee (Tim) Roher, Sarah (Nick) Smith, Laurin (Chelsea) Ketterman, Samantha (Nathan) Hyland, Kimberlin (Kyle) Miller and Braden (Whitney) Borcherts; great grandchildren, Ian Samuelson, Isaac Samuelson, Bella Glidden, Hunter Hays, Olivia Roher, Tanner Hays, Lucas Hyland, Shiloh Hyland, Ruby Roher and Kacey Ray Miller; and many beloved brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, cousins, nieces and nephews.
Hubert is predeceased by parents, Allen and Edith Smith; brother, Elvis Boyce; sisters, Dorothy Gorman and Venita McQuay.
Burial following cremation will take place at a later date in Arkansas, at which time we will also inter the remains of his loving wife, Freda; our mother.
A private celebration of life is planned for family and friends.