Dr. Boykin Baird Smith

Dr. Boykin Baird Smith of Abingdon, Virginia, passed away peacefully on January 9, 2026, with his wife and daughters by his side.

Baird was born on August 5, 1940, in Hammond, Indiana, to Theophilus Boykin Smith and Alice Viola Hanneld. He grew up in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, and Charleston, West Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree from West Virginia University. It was there that he met his wife of 63 years, Sandra (Fortney) Smith.

Baird went on to receive his Doctor of Optometry degree from the Illinois College of Optometry in Chicago. He and Sandra settled in Olney, Illinois, where they raised their family and Baird established a private optometry practice for 43 years. In 2008, they moved to Abingdon, Virginia, where he continued practicing optometry in the area.

Throughout his life Baird served others through his profession and through his involvement in the First Presbyterian Church of Olney, Sinking Springs Presbyterian Church of Abingdon and through his love of the arts with the Olney Arts Council and Barter Theater in Abingdon, Virginia

Baird is survived by his wife, Sandra (Fortney) Smith; his daughters, Liane Smith and Lesley Donnell (husband Jeff Donnell); and his grandsons, McLaren Cantrell, Baxter Cantrell, and Judson Baird Donnell. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Page Thomas.

Baird will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, and friend; for his kind and compassionate care of patients; his remarkable artistic talents; his warm smile; and his gentlemanly manner.

A celebration of life service will be held on Saturday, February 14, at Sinking Springs Presbyterian Church of Abingdon, Virginia, with visitation from 12:00-1:00 p.m. and service at 1:00 p.m. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the First Presbyterian Church of Olney, Illinois; Sinking Springs Presbyterian Church of Abingdon, Virginia; the Olney Arts Council, or Barter Theater in Abingdon, Virginia.

The Family of Dr. Boykin Baird Smith is being cared for by Farris Funeral Service & Crematory - Main Street Location, 427 E. Main Street Abingdon, Va 276-623-2700.