Obituary published on Legacy.com by North's Funeral Home - Abilene on Jan. 6, 2026.
Hubert Edward Smith Sr., of
Abilene, Texas, passed away on Wednesday, January 1, 2026, at the age of 89. He was born on November 16, 1936, in
Piedmont, South Carolina, to his parents Grace Heaton Smith and Grady Smith.
Hubert was a dedicated member of numerous Masonic organizations, including the Masonic Lodge No. 559, John Sayles Lodge No. 1408, Grand Council Allied Masonic Degrees of the USA, James M. Wilson Council No. 92 Knight Masons, Stanford Commandery No. 75 Knights Templar, Suez Shriners International, National Sojourners, The Royal Order of Scotland, and The Scottish Rite Bodies. He was also a Past Patron of Queen Esther Chapter No. 833 and Cora Posy Chapter No. 1072 Order of the Eastern Star. In addition, he served many years on board of Abilene Assembly No. 86 IORG.
A faithful member of Pioneer Drive Baptist Church, Hubert served as a long-time usher and greeter, sharing warm welcomes with all who entered. He worked professionally at Sterling Volkswagen and Hendrick Hospital, and earlier in life served his country as a Fire Protection Supervisor retiring from the United States Air Force in September 1974 and a member of the VFW.
Hubert's life was defined by his joyful spirit, determination, strong will, and generous heart. He was a hard worker who always stood ready to lend a hand, and he brought happiness to those around him even while privately enduring personal pain. He was known for his daily texts to friends and family - so much so that if you were born in 1959, he often greeted you as if you were his daughter.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Grady and Grace Smith; brothers Bobby Jo Smith, Thomas Earl Smith, and Harry Elmer Smith; daughters Vickie Lou and Barbara Ann; his wife Mary "Ann" Wilson Smith; son Hubert Edward Smith Jr.; and his beloved dog Tiny Ann.
Hubert is survived by his sisters Mammie Parker, Doris Lemon (Leroy), Helen Drake, and Janie Rester; his best friend Jerry Pingle; his special friend Linda Richardson; and his chosen daughter's Tina O'Shields and Nona Flanders and their families.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at North's Funeral Home in Abilene. A Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at 1p.m. at North's Funeral Home. Burial to follow on Thursday, January 8th, 2026, at 11a.m. at North Bell Cemetery, in Belton, Texas, with military honors being rendered.
The family invites all who knew Hubert to join them in remembering a man who was a dear friend to many and whose legacy of love, kindness, and service touched countless lives Thank you to Hendrick North, Continue Care Hospital, Northern Oaks and Mesa Springs. Donations in Hubert's memory can be made to TMRC (Texas Masonic Retirement Center), Scottish Rite Hospital for Kids, The Pot of Gold Foundation, or the organization of your choice.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Hubert, please visit our floral store.