Harold R. Smith, 81, of Derry, NH, died Thursday, February 23, 2006 at his home following a long illness. Mr. Smith was born in South Hampton, NH on June 24, 1924, a son of the late Guy Willis and Lizzie Ruth (Emery) Smith. He was a resident of Derry for the past two years, formerly a life-long resident of Smith Corner in South Hampton until illness forced a move. He was a graduate of Sanborn Seminary in Kingston, NH where he lettered in baseball. He was also a descendent of early MA and NH settlers John Emery and Rev. Stephen Batchiler. Mr. Smith was a second-generation builder and co-owner of Smith Brothers Construction Company of South Hampton. He restored several historic homes and built many custom homes in Exeter and the Seacoast area. He was an avid outdoorsman, sports enthusiast and gardener. His memberships included the NRA, AARP, the South Hampton Grange and he had regularly attended the South Hampton Baptist Church.
He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Elizabeth Elaine (Dixon) Smith of Derry, a son, Rev. James R. Smith of Derry, four grandchildren, Sheri Larsen of Newburyport, MA, Joel Smith, MD of Santa Rosa, CA, Bethany Van Brunt of Henniker, NH, Erik Schreiner of Sun City, CA, seven great-grandchildren and also by various nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his daughter, Beverly E. Schreiner in 2000 and by his brother, Guy W. Smith, Jr.
Following cremation a memorial service was held at 4:00PM Sunday, February 26, 2006 in the Peabody Funeral Homes and Crematorium, 15 Birch St., Derry. Friends called on Sunday from 3:30 PM until the service time at the funeral homes. Following services a gathering was held in the First Baptist Church Fellowship Hall, 2 Crystal Ave., Derry. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Rockingham VNA & Hospice, 137 Epping Road, Exeter, NH 03833.