Herbert Smith of Kalamazoo was born in Hamden, Ohio on May 29, 1935 to Robert and Helen Smith. He graduated from Hamden High School in Ohio and continued at Graceland University where he met his wife Shirley. They both continued their education at the University of Houston. He earned his Ph.D. in Sociology at the University of Wisconsin in Madison. Herb was an associate professor in the Sociology department at Western Michigan University and taught there for his entire career.

Herb was a lifetime member of the Community of Christ Church. He served as a minister beginning at age 13 and held many ministry and leadership positions in Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids throughout his life. Herb and Shirley were in charge of the basketball program for 15 years at the church sponsored youth camp Spectacular, held at Graceland University. His part-time passion was officiating sports for 45 years with the MHSAA volleyball, football, basketball programs and at the college level which took him all over the state.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 67 years, Shirley, brothers John and Fred, sisters Erma, Roberta and Mary. He is survived by children Robert (Anne) Smith, Karen (Keith) Chappelow, and David Smith, 4 grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren, brother Roger (Pam) Smith, sister-in-law Sharon Smith, and many nephews and nieces.

The family thanks Herb's caregivers from Oshtemo Story Point and Centrica Hospice. A celebration of life service will be held at the Kalamazoo Community of Christ Church at 4 pm on September 20th. Visiting with the family will be before the service at 2:30. If you would like to make a donation in his memory, please make donations to Kalamazoo Community of Christ or to Community of Christ, Attn: Spectacular Memorial Contributions, 1001 W. Walnut, Independence MO 64050.