[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 214 (Thursday, December 18, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1230]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF HAL SMITH

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. DARIN LaHOOD

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, December 18, 2025

  Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor and remember Hal Smith 
of Springfield, Illinois, a devoted public servant, respected community 
leader, and most importantly, a loving husband, father, and 
grandfather. Hal passed away on December 3, 2025, leaving behind a 
remarkable legacy of leadership and service.
  A proud 1968 graduate of Springfield High School, Hal went on to earn 
his Bachelor of Arts in Business from Sangamon State University in 1972 
and later a master's degree in public administration in 1976. From the 
very beginning of his career, Hal embodied the best qualities of a 
servant leader. His work for U.S. Senator Charles H. Percy beginning in 
1977, quickly established him as a trusted member of the district team, 
known for his warm personality, strategic insight, and unwavering 
commitment to helping others.
  In 1984, Hal transitioned to the private sector, beginning a thirty-
year career with three global gaming and entertainment companies. His 
love for history and Illinois heritage led him to serve as executive 
director of the Looking for Lincoln Heritage Coalition from 2008 to 
2010, where he shared lessons of leadership drawn from Abraham Lincoln 
and other notable Illinois leaders.
  After decades of private sector success, Hal announced his 
retirement, but public service called him back. In 2016, newly elected 
Congressman Darin LaHood asked Hal to join his district team, where he 
oversaw operations of the Springfield office. In that role, Hal once 
again served his community with humility, kindness, and deep respect 
for the people of Central Illinois.
  Always embracing new challenges, Hal left the congressional office in 
2019 to become Executive Director for Development at the SIU Foundation 
at the School of Medicine. His exceptional communication skills and 
genuine passion for people made him an invaluable asset, earning 
admiration from colleagues throughout the School of Medicine.
  Above all, Hal was grounded by faith and family. He was an active 
member of Blessed Sacrament Church and the devoted husband of forty-two 
years to Meg Moore Smith. He was a loving father to Elizabeth Lucin and 
David Reid and a proud granddad to Madison and Caden. Hal will be 
deeply missed by all who knew him and will be remembered as the epitome 
of a servant leader whose faith, character, and dedication to his 
community will endure for years to come.

                          ____________________