Harold "Hal" Elwin Smith

Harold “Hal” Elwin Smith, CMSgt- Ret., 85 of Vancleave, MS passed away on August 27, 2026.

He was born on October 15, 1940 in Middletown, CT to Wilmer Wayland Smith and Elsie Nienstedt. He graduated from Cleveland Institute of Electronics in 1969, USAFNCO Academy in 1979, and University of Southern Mississippi with a degree in Business Administration in 1990. He enjoyed gardening and golfing.

Harold retired from Civil Service from 85th EIS from KAFB and retired from KAFB 12/1985 as CMSgt. He served as the Chief Plans Flight Superintendent of Installation from 1993 to 2006. He was awarded the Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, NCO Professional Military Education Ribbon with 1 device, Army Good Conduct Medal, Combat Readiness Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, AF Longevity Service Ribbon with 5 devices, National Defense Service Medal, AF Overseas Service Short Tour Ribbon, AF Outstanding Unit Award, AF Good Conduct Medal with 6 Oak Leaf Clusters, Meritorious Service Medal with 2 devices, and AF Commendation Medal with 3 devices.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Wilmer Wayland Smith and Elsie Nienstedt; stepmom, Mabel Smith; and siblings, Arnold L. Smith of Hendersonville, SC.

Harold is survived by his spouse, Carol Smith; children, Alexandria (Wesley) Tanner and Stephanie (Cody) Cowen, Joanne (David) Farmer, and Jason Smith; niece that was like a daughter; Diana (Joe) Grant; grandchildren, Presley Tanner, Alexandra Ellis, Brian (Jessica) Grant, and Adam (Kelsi) Grant; three neices, Elizabeth Owsley, Caroline Angel, Claudia Waltermire; and special people in his life, Cindy (Mike) Morrone, Martinez and Tuazon families in California.

The family would like to extend a thank you to Andrea with Deaconess Hospice for all the love and care you gave Mr. Harold.

A private graveside service will be held.

Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Homes is honored to serve the family of Harold “Hal” Elwin Smith.