Darel Gene Smart

Darel Gene Smart, age 75, passed away on December 2, 2025, in Drumright, Oklahoma. He was born on February 9, 1950, in El Reno, Oklahoma, to Joseph “Carl” Smart and Opal Elizabeth (Shipman) Smart.

Darel grew up in Cromwell, Oklahoma, where he spent his childhood on the grounds of his family’s boys’ home—a place that helped shape his strong character, sense of responsibility, and lifelong compassion for others. He graduated from Cromwell High School in 1968, beginning a life defined by service, family, and kindness.

On August 9, 1970, Darel married Orvale Adams, the love of his life and mother of his children. Their marriage, which lasted until her passing in 2019, was blessed with two children, Darell and Tammy. After the loss of Orvale, Darel found companionship again and married Carol Anderson on November 27, 2021, sharing a loving and supportive partnership in his later years.

Darel devoted 25 years of loyal service to the Seminole Fire Department, where he was known for his courage, dedication, and steadfast presence. He deeply valued the brotherhood of the fire service and took great pride in serving his community.

Beyond his work, Darel embraced life with a playful sense of humor and a genuine love for people. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, teasing friends and family, and delighting in the laughter of children—whom he loved to spoil. His beloved Chihuahua, Chiquita, was his constant companion and source of joy. Darel never met a stranger and cherished every chance for a meaningful conversation. His warm presence and welcoming nature made everyone feel at home.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Orvale Smart; and eight brothers: JC Smart, Roy Smart, Troy Smart, Boyd Smart, Tony Smart, Mark Lewis, and Victor Lewis.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Carol Anderson Smart; his son, Darell Jay Smart; his daughter, Tammy Mattox and her husband, Joe; six grandchildren, Josh Smart, Aaron Smart, Daryck Smart, Terry Mattox, Brailey Hilligoss, and Carsen Mattox; four great-grandchildren, Mia Smart, Nora Smart, Ella Smart, and Kace McKinley; his sister, Darlene Carter; his brother, Luke Lewis; and a host of extended family members and friends.

Darel will be remembered for his kindness, his humor, and his unwavering devotion to the people he loved. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched.

Darel’s memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 13, 2025 at Swearingen Funeral Home Chapel in Seminole, OK.