Durant Police Chaplain Brent Smith died July 10 at age 55 after a battle with cancer.
His obituary with Gordon Funeral Home states that he lived a life to love God, love people, and faithfully answer whatever calling the Lord placed before him.
Before earning his Oklahoma CLEET certification in 1992, Smith served with the Beauregard Parish Sheriff’s Department in Louisiana and the University of Oklahoma Police Department. After completing CLEET, he served the citizens of Chickasha as both a police officer and detective.
Later in life, he continued that calling as a Durant reserve police officer and chaplain.
Smith was ordained by the Oklahoma District Church of the Nazarene in 2010 and graduated from Nazarene Bible College in 2011.
Tributes began pouring in on social media after Smith’s passing.
“Brent was a steadfast example of faith, integrity, character, compassion, and service,” the Durant Police Department said. “As a disciple, protector, shepherd, mentor, and friend, he dedicated his life to caring for others and strengthening those around him. His unwavering commitment to God, our officers, and the community touched countless lives.
“He set the standard for how to treat others—with dignity, respect, humility, and grace. His legacy will continue to inspire us as we strive to uphold the values he lived every day.”
Bryan County Sheriff Joey Tucker said, “Chaplain Brent Smith’s unwavering commitment to God, his family, his friends, his law enforcement family, and the citizens he faithfully served will never be forgotten.
He was a source of strength during times of tragedy, a voice of hope in moments of uncertainty, and a faithful servant whose compassion touched countless lives. His ministry reminded us that behind every badge is a person who sometimes needs prayer, encouragement, and unwavering faith.”
Retired Calera Police Chief Don Hyde said his heart was heavy after learning of his friend Smith’s passing.
“Brent and I went through the police academy together 35 years ago,” Hyde said. “Even back then, he was a man’s man, steady, dependable, and one of the most level-headed people I’ve ever known. While I was usually all over the place, Brent was the calm voice of reason. Looking back, it doesn’t surprise me one bit that God later called him into the ministry. He lived with quiet strength, wisdom, and conviction.”
Smith’s badge number was 635 and a memorial service will be held at 6:35 p.m. on Saturday, July 18 at Camp Bond, 2901 S. Camp Bond Road, Tishomingo, with Pastor Dwight Campbell officiating.
