Father Michael Heffernan Smith

I wonder how many of us have grown spiritually as much as Mike did.

Sincerest sympathy to the Smith and Heffernan families. Mike was like family to us having been my roommate at Notre Dame, the priest who married us and the friend for life. His love and care for others, especially those in need, has been exemplary. He will be deeply missed, fondly remembered and greatly loved.

To Mike's family: Mike was a good friend at Notre Dame from 1957 to 1961. I had just written him a Mass card for his intentions when I learned of his passing. I will now offer Mass for the repose of his soul. He shared in the Lord's ministry and suffering, may he share in his glorious resurrection.

Father Mike was a dear family friend and a wonderful man. He always tried to do what was right and had a great overall personality. As a Catholic priest he ministered to all and especially cared for those less fortunate. He was always kind and understanding. Thank you, Father Mike, for all you have done for our family especially my mother Barbara Braun though the years. I feel blessed to have been privileged to know you for so many years. Father Mike will surely be resting more peacefully in...

My deepest sympathy for Fr. Smith's family and friends. We came to know Fr. Smith back in the 1980's through Sister Catherine Moore, who ran the Social Apostolate in Savannah. She lived in a mobile home behind St. Anthony's and said that Fr. Smith had a heart for the poor like no other. When Jesse Jackson appeared in the Civic Center in his 1988 run for President, there were three white faces in the audience - me, my wife, and Fr. Smith. What great company.

Bishop Hartmeyer, brother priests, family and friends,
I had the pleasure of Fr. Mike as my pastor at St. Boniface in Springfield. I kindly remember his homilies and the unique presentation style he used. I truly enjoyed his homily delivered during the funeral Mass for Msgr. Francis Nelson not too long ago. Please know my prayers and thoughts are with him and all of you. He truly was a great pastor in the vineyard of South Georgia.

memory is a special place in our heart where we fine confort in the treasured thoughts of those we hold dear. may it help to know that others care deeply and remembering you with special thoughts. you was a friend to us , and as a member of the bulloch county branch of the NAACP we will all miss you. rest in peace.

Dear Father Smith,
I will miss you so much; I always loved hearing you call my name as I walked down the aisle of the Church. We had many wonderful conversations, and I will miss them. I love having a friend in Heaven, and I definitely know that's where you are!