Born to a farming family, Darrell was nicknamed "Cotton" as a child due to his platinum blond hair. He was never without a story of his upbringing, or a tall tale.
Darrell loved, and is survived by, his wife Virginia Stone Owens, sister Debra Kelsey of Troy, children John Smithhart of Gatesville, Tina Martin of Bowling Green, Virginia, David Smithhart of Temple, Shawna Ayles of Troy, their spouses, and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.
He and Virginia actively participated in horse shows throughout the state, from holding ropings and playdays at their own Rocky Acres arena in Troy, to Quarter horse, Paint horse, and open horse shows large and small. They were always willing to lend a hand, or teach anyone willing to ask.
Darrell was a jack-of-all-trades, could fix almost anything, and could saddle a horse in under 30 seconds. He was kind, forgiving, generous, and welcoming to everyone, regardless.
A memorial gathering will be held at a later time for close friends and family. Memorial donations may be made to the Bell County Youth Fair, or, as Darrell would probably say, "Keep that money and spend it on yourself."