David Smoker Huyard

David Smoker Huyard

August 19, 2025

David Smoker Huyard 1933-2025

David Smoker Huyard, of Harrisonburg, Virginia, took his final breath at his home, surrounded by family and caregivers. He died on August 19, 2025 at the age of 92.

David was born at the Huyard family farm in New Holland, Pennsylvania on February 18, 1933 to David E. and Lydia Z. Huyard. He married his beloved wife, Anna Mary, on November 10, 1955. Together they raised five children - Melvin, Dale, Rose, Dwight, and Crystal. David's grandchildren, great grandchildren, and a great-great grandchild will always cherish their memories of Pop Pop. He was preceded in death by their firstborn infant son, wife Anna Mary, parents David and Lydia, sister Ruth Esh, and brother Melvin. A private family graveside service will be held at the Stoltzfus Cemetery on Amishtown Road in New Holland, Pennsylvania.

Dad was a gifted storyteller. He regularly shared many stories of his experiences and faith traditions growing up in the Amish community. He told stories, both in Pennsylvania Dutch and English, about his parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, family get-togethers, tobacco farming, horses, neighbors, and guests who frequently visited the Huyard farm on Amishtown Road. Until his final days, Dad could recall specific details about happenings long ago. He could remember names and events with remarkable accuracy, entertaining his audiences with laughter, charm, and a sparkle in his eye.

Dad was a talented artist, drawing pencil sketches and painting pictures of landscapes, wildlife, still life, and portraits. He enjoyed music - playing guitar, accordion, and violin. In his workshop, he built violins and enjoyed researching methods and techniques for creating the best possible sound.

Though deeply rooted in the Old Order Amish faith and tradition, David and Anna Mary left the Amish. Eventually, in 1966 they accepted a pastoral call to Mountain City, Tennessee where David pastored Rainbow Mennonite Church for over twenty years. Here they built lasting relationships in the community. David had a ministry program at the local radio station that eventually extended to the Caribbean islands where he also traveled on various occasions using his gifts of speaking to share the Gospel message.

In 1985, David and Anna Mary moved to Harrisonburg, Virginia where he attended Eastern Mennonite Seminary and served as pastor to several churches in the area. They also operated Huyard's Country Kitchen from 1987-1999 in the Dayton Farmers Market. Most recently, David used Facebook for his ministry keeping up with friendships and creating new ones.

We will miss him dearly, and his memory will live on in our hearts forever. We love you, Dad.