Darrell Lee Smart, of Maxwell, NM, went home into the loving arms of his Lord and Savior on Friday, June 9, 2023, with his loving family by his side. Darrel was born on December 5, 1953, in Salinas, California. He was raised and graduated in Bayfield, Colorado. Darrel was raised by his parents Grace and Bill Smart. Darrell was married to the love of his life, Jody Ella Jo Espinoza, for 37 years. They continued to be the best of friends and lived to their promise “till death do us part.”
Darrell spent his younger years working alongside his father building highway fences throughout the state of New Mexico. He then started a career as a corrections officer at the Springer Boy School, where he met many of his lifelong friends. During the latter part of his life, he found his passion in nursing, finally retiring from long-term care. Darrel had a love for spending time with his family, the Denver Broncos, dancing to Rock ‘n’ Roll music with his wife, camping, and fishing. He was always proud of being a part of the POW-MIA Memorial Celebration in Springer, NM.
Darrell was proceeded in death by his parents, Grace and Bill Smart, his sons, Shawn Smart and Jacob Gallegos, and his special friend Phil Romero. He is survived by his wife Jody Smart, daughter Shantelle Gallegos, granddaughters Eyleah Valdez and Destiny Gallegos, grandsons Brandon Mazzarise, Christian Smart, and Terrance Gallegos, and three great-granddaughters Ava Valdez, Millie Mazzarise, and Amisti Smart, and his special friends Raymond Cruz and Felix Pena.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to the hospice nurse, Robin Pilley, and all of the nursing staff and faculty at the Colfax General Long-Term Care at the Nursing Home in Springer, NM, for all the loving care and compassion given to Darrell and his family.
Darrell was a smart and witty man, who had the speeds of slow and stop. He will forever be remembered for the kindness, laughter, and joy that he brought to all in his presence.
Recitation of the Most Holy Rosary for Darrell Smart will be held on Saturday, July 22nd, 2023 at the St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Springer, NM at 10:00 a.m. followed by the Mass of Christian burial at 10:30 a.m. with Fr. Trieu as the Celebrant. Inurnment will follow at the Maxwell, NM Cemetery.
