Hugh Lansden Smith of Roswell, Georgia, passed away on 1 January 2024. Hugh served as a pastor and district superintendent in addition to dedicating his life to spreading compassion, faith, and kindness to those around him.

Hugh was born in Cookeville, Tennessee, on 10 November 1940. He attended Trevecca Nazarene University and graduated in 1963. While at Trevecca, he met Miriam Goodwin from Jackson, Georgia, whom he married in 1962. 

During his years at Trevecca, he received a call to full-time ministry. 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 (NTS) in Kansas City, Missouri, where he received his master’s degree in Divinity. After graduating from NTS, Hugh served as pastor in Kingston and Grandview, Missouri; Arlington, Texas; and Bradenton, Florida. 

In 1985, he received a call to be superintendent for the Washington Pacific District, where he served faithfully until his retirement in 2011. Hugh received an honorary doctorate from Northwest Nazarene University in 1994, recognizing his faithful leadership and service.

Throughout his career, Hugh actively participated in various denominational committees, boards, and ministries, including Nazarene Missions International, Nazarene Youth International, and the Northwest Nazarene University Board of Regents.

Upon retirement in 2011, Hugh and Miriam settled near their children and grandchildren in Roswell, Georgia. Even in retirement, Hugh served as interim pastor at churches in Loganville and Cartersville, Georgia.

Miriam stood by Hugh’s side as a supportive partner in ministry and life. His children and grandchildren adored him, although he will be dearly missed. The family looks forward to a joyous reunion with him in eternity.
Hugh is survived by his wife, Miriam Smith; daughters, Kimberly Schmidt and Carla Berggren; and five grandchildren.