Bernard E. “Barnyard” Smith, 87, of Mount Vernon, Illinois, passed away at 2:09 PM on February 27, 2023, at SSM Health Good Sam in Mount Vernon.
He was born May 10, 1935, in Mount Vernon, Illinois to the late Albert “Shorty” Smith and Myrtle Ziegler. Bernard married his childhood sweetheart, Clara Scheppel on June 2, 1956, in Bluford, Illinois.
Bernard is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, children; Susan Smith of Mount Vernon, Donna Beehn and husband, Gary of Mount Vernon, Elizabeth Trotter and husband, Mike of Mount Vernon, Michael Smith and Terri Coyle of Mount Vernon, 6 grandchildren; Andrew Smith and wife, Sara, Daniel Beehn, Adam Beehn, Jessica Houchin, Michaela Helverson and husband, Waylon, and Jaden Trotter, and 4 great-grandchildren; Carter Smith, Wyatt Helverson, Maddox Helverson and MacKenzie Smith.
In addition to his parents, Bernard was preceded in death by 3 infant brothers and brother Paul Andrew Smith.
Bernard was a well-known auto mechanic since he was 14 years old. In his early years, his passion was racing cars, which is where he got the nickname “Barnyard”. Later, he retired from Illinois Power after 28 years as a mechanic. He was a deacon of Pleasant View Missionary Baptist Church on Goshen Road and was a past treasurer and trustee. Bernard was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. He will be deeply missed.
A Graveside service will be held Wednesday, March 1, 2023, at 11 AM with Brother Don Rector officiating Memorials may be made in Bernard’s honor to Carmi Baptist Children’s Home. Call Hughey Funeral Home at 618-242-3348 or visit hugheyfh.com for further information.
