John Darren Smart

John Darren Smart, 61, of North Richland Hills, entered the loving arms of our Heavenly Father on January 30, 2026. A devoted brother, husband, father, granddad, and uncle, Darren was a man whose life was rooted in love, loyalty, and quiet strength

Born on November 5, 1964, in Dallas, Texas, to Noble Carleton Smart Jr. and Nelva Ann Jumper Smart, Darren spent his early childhood in Irving, Texas alongside his older brother and sister, Jeffery Scot and Kimberly Ann. John-known as "Darren" to those closest to him-attended MacArthur High School. During his formative years, he was active in sports, enjoyed playing guitar, and cultivated the hobbies that would become lifelong passions.

Introduced to fishing at a young age by their father, Darren, his brother, and his sister embraced the pastime wholeheartedly. For Darren, fishing became more than a hobby-it was a source of peace, joy, and connection. Throughout his life, he eagerly shared that passion with his grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and his closest friends who were always willing to join him on the water.

Darren was a proud and devoted father to his children, Chase Matthew and Sarah Ann. Much of his heart was dedicated to caring for his son, Chase, who was born with Gaucher disease (pronounced go-SHAY), a rare genetic disorder. Darren's compassion and strength were evident in the care he provided until Chase's passing in 1992-a profound loss he carried with enduring love.

Beyond fishing, Darren found great joy in perfecting his homemade beef jerky, a craft that earned him the affectionate title of "the jerky man" for many years. Known for his kindness and willingness to help anyone in need, Darren was a man of God, who lived a life defined by service, humility, and generosity.

In 2021, Darren married Cynthia, with whom he built a warm and welcoming home in North Richland Hills. Together, they cherished time spent with their blended family-hosting gatherings, traveling to visit loved ones, and simply enjoying the comfort of each other's companionship. Darren was deeply proud of his daughter, Sarah, and her children, admiring their resilience, accomplishments, and the love they brought into his life. He also held immense pride for his nephew Dewyane, his family, and the values they shared.

Darren is reunited with his parents and his beloved son, Chase Matthew who preceded him in death

He is survived by his loving wife, Cynthia Brooks Smart; his brother, Scot Smart, and wife Nicci; his sister, Kimberly Smart; his daughter, Sarah Anne Smart; and his grandchildren, Xavier Chase, Maya Annabell, Daniel Matthew, and Andre Darnell. He is also survived by his niece, Jessica Muniz, and nephew, Dewyane Smart, and wife Brooke, along with their children-Jackson, Braylee, McKinley, and Garrison.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Darren's name to the National Gaucher Foundation or the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

Services will be held to celebrate his life on Saturday, February 21st, 2026, at 2:00pm at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints located at 4401 NE Loop 820 North Richland Hills Tx 76180.

His memory will forever be a blessing to all who loved him.