Howard Lamar Smith Jr.

Howard Lamar Smith Jr., a resident of New Freedom, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, with family by his side.

Born on February 15, 1955, in Baltimore, Maryland, Howard was the son of Howard Lamar Smith Sr. and Frances Annette Smith. He dedicated most of his life to the moving industry, owning and operating trucks.

Known for his savvy business sense, Howard imparted valuable knowledge to many fellow truck drivers, earning him admiration and respect within the moving community. He also played a pivotal role in guiding and mentoring his son-in-law, Joshua Keihl, into becoming his own successful operator and businessman.

Howard's passion for sports was evident throughout his life. He grew up playing baseball and cherished the camaraderie and excitement of the game.

On September 8, 1973, Howard married the love of his life, Rosa Underwood, in Baltimore, Maryland. Their marriage lasted for 52 1/2 years until Howard's passing.

Howard is survived by his wife, Rosa; their daughter, Laura Keihl, and her husband, Joshua Keihl; their daughter, Tiffany Scott, and her husband, Justin Scott; their daughter, Cortney Bond, and her husband, Joel Bond; their grandchildren, Corey Wyatt and his wife, Neshawn Wyatt; their grandson, Dylan Keihl; their grandson, Kameron Platts; their granddaughter, Kyra Platts; their granddaughter, Kendall Bond; and their grandson, Jake Bond; and their great-grandchild, Amari Wyatt.

Howard is also survived by his sister-in-law, Edna Tedder, her husband, Gary Tedder; their daughter, Maria Wells and her husband James Wells, and her son, Jonah Wells; his brothers, David Smith and his wife, Joanne Smith, and their family; and his brother, Steve Smith, his wife, Terri Smith, and their family.
Howard, a beloved family protector, instilled love and dedication in his loved ones. He was preceded in death by his father, Howard Lamar Smith, Sr., and mother, Frances Annette Smith. Howard will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him. His spirit will live on in the hearts of his family and friends, and their legacy of love, family, and dedication will continue through those they touched.

Howard was a big, strong man who never took anything from anyone. However, he possessed the biggest, strongest heart of love and dedication for his family.