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 Wewoka, Oklahoma, where he spent his childhood and adolescence on the grounds of Missionary Cosmopolitan Church Home Incorporated, M.C.C.H., his family’s childrens’ home—a place that helped shape his strong character, sense of responsibility, and lifelong compassion for others. He graduated from Butner High School (located in Cromwell) in 1968, beginning a life defined by service, family, and a strong faith in Our Lord Jesus Christ.

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 once again found love and contentment, and he married Carol J. Anderson on November 27, 2021, sharing a loving and supportive partnership in his later years in Seminole, Oklahoma.

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. Darel went on to work as an EMT, as a home builder and remodeler, and he worked at the hospital in Prague, Oklahoma.

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 seven (biological) brothers: JC Smart, Roy Smart, Troy Smart, Boyd Smart, Tony Smart, Mark Lewis, and Victor Lewis. Darel was also preceded in death by brothers, Leroy Smart, R. K. Smart and sisters, Jeanette Smart and Hannah Smart.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Carol J. 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 and Darlene’s husband Lester; his brother, Luke Lewis and Luke’s wife Annette; and a host of extended family members and friends.

Darel will be remembered for his kindness, his humor, his knowledge of the Word, 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.