Hugh Lansden Smith of Roswell, Georgia passed away on January 1, 2024. Hugh dedicated his life to spreading compassion, faith, and kindness to those around him. Hugh is survived by his wife Miriam Smith (née Goodwin) and children Kimberly Schmidt (husband Ryan) and Carla Berggren (husband Kevin). He leaves behind a legacy of love in his five grandchildren: Kylee Berggren, Lansden Schmidt, Kali Shever (Noah), Christopher Berggren, and Luke Schmidt.
Hugh was born in Cookeville, Tn on November 10, 1940. He attended Trevecca Nazarene University and graduated in 1963. While at Trevecca, he met Miriam Goodwin from Jackson, GA, whom he married in 1962. During his time at Trevecca, he received a call to full time ministry. Dr. William Greathouse, a professor at Trevecca at that time, was a strong influence on Hugh's life and encouraged him to attend Nazarene Theological Seminary in Kansas City, MO where he received his Master's Degree in Divinity.
After graduating from NTS, Hugh and Miriam served as pastor in Kingston, Mo, Grandview, Mo., Arlington, Tx, and Bradenton, Fl. In 1985, he received a call to be District Superintendent for the Washington Pacific District Church of the Nazarene where he served faithfully until his retirement in 2011. Hugh received an honorary doctorate from Northwest Nazarene University in 1994 in recognition of faithful leadership and service.
Throughout his career, Hugh actively participated in various denominational committees, boards, and ministries, including NWMS, NYI, and Northwest Nazarene University Board of Regents.
Upon retirement in 2011, Hugh and Miriam settled in Roswell, GA, near their children and grandchildren. Even in retirement, Hugh continued to serve as interim pastor at churches in Loganville and Cartersville, GA.
Miriam stood by Hugh's side as a supportive partner in both ministry and life. His children and grandchildren adored him, and although he will be dearly missed on earth, the family looks forward to a joyous reunion with him in eternity. Hugh Lansden Smith's legacy of faith, service, and love will live on in the hearts of those he touched.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held in February at a date and time to be determined.