Ardell H. Smith

Ardell H. Smith, of Spring Mills, went home to be with his Lord on June 18, 2017 at the age of 88.  He was born in Spring Mills on January 3, 1929 to the late Clarence C. and Ida M. (Keller) Smith.  On April 8, 1950, he married Sara M. (Wagner) Smith, who passed in 2010.  Ardell graduated from Gregg Township Vocational High School.  His first job was as a carpenter with his father and grandfather, helping to build many homes in Spring Mills.  He worked for H.O. Smith & Sons, building homes in State College for 31 years, before joining his sons at Smith’s Custom Builders.

Ardell is survived by daughter-in-law, Pamela Smith (Dean), sons Danny (Cynthia) and David (Pamela) of Spring Mills, and daughter, Dee Saylor (Larry) of State College, 11 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren and 2 unborn great grandchildren.  In addition to his wife and parents, his oldest son, Dean, and a great grandchild predeceased him.   Also surviving are siblings, Betty Stover, Shirley Chamberlain, Lois Royer, Janet Schaeffer and Andrew Smith. 

Ardell was a hardworking man with many talents including plumbing, electrical and every phase of construction.  He loved to be in his workshop building furniture, helping others with projects or to sit by a warm fire.  He enjoyed antique tractors, going to car auctions, hunting and being in the mountain cutting firewood.  Ardell was a former member of the Patriotic Order, Sons of America.  He credited the Rex Humbard Ministry for his salvation and attended Grace Baptist Church in Spring Mills. 

The family wishes to express their gratitude to the women who provided compassionate care to Ardell over his last years.  In accordance with family wishes, Ardell will be laid to rest in Heckman Cemetery during a private family service with Pastor Kenneth Codner officiating.  Contributions in memory of Ardell may be given to Grace Baptist Church, 3596 Penns Valley Road, Spring Mills, PA 16875. 

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