Longtime Tucumcari barber honored

Not only was Norman "Smitty" Smith honored Friday for longevity in Tucumcari as a barber, but well-wishers celebrated his upcoming birthday, as well.

Tucumcari MainStreet honored Smith and his Smitty's Barber Shop with a Legacy Business Award at the shop at 101 S. First St.

About 20 friends, family members and customers - including a few who'd had their hair cut by Smith for over a half-century - gathered in the tiny shop for the ceremony led by Tucumcari MainStreet Executive Director Connie Loveland.

One who attended was Lionel Martinez of Lionel's Barber Shop, who marked his 60th year as a barber in downtown in 2023 and also was given a Legacy Business Award. Smith attended that celebration, and Martinez returned the favor.

Loveland called Smith's shop "a cornerstone of our downtown, offering not just haircuts, but a welcoming space for conversation and camaraderie for 68 years."

Minutes later, Loveland presented Smith a birthday cake to mark his 93rd trip around the sun. Smith's birthday was Sunday.

After a stint in the military and graduating from Amarillo Barber College, Smith said he settled in Tucumcari with his wife Mable in 1956.

He initially cut hair at the long-gone Vorenberg Hotel downtown before moving to his present location in 1971.

In recent years, Smith has dropped down to two days a week cutting hair, with his shop's hours supplemented by Tonya Lovelady, marking her 20th year there in January.

"I've stayed the longest of anyone," Lovelady said, nothing other barbers at the shop who didn't last long, including one who lasted one day.

Lovelady said she once was fired by Smith, then a few days later he called her and asked: "Where are you?"

She returned to the shop to work, then found out Smith's wife insisted Lovelady be reinstated.

Mable died at age 89 in 2022.

Smith also was part of Tucumcari High School football team's chain crew, or those who manage the signal poles on the sidelines, for 54 years. That included the town's state championships in 1959 and 2002.

"I did it because I love football, and I always had the best seat in the house," Smith said in an interview in 2014.

"His unwavering commitment, whether on the field or behind the chair, exemplifies his deep-rooted love for this community," Loveland said.

Asked about his longevity, Smith attributed it to good health and exercise.

Smith said he still rides his bicycle four times a week, sometimes five.

"Just try to keep up with him," said one attendee who apparently has tried.