Herbert L. Speakman

Herb passed peacefully on January 18, 2026, in Lancaster, Ohio, surrounded by family and friends. He was born August 10, 1940, to Melvin and Thelma Speakman. Herb graduated from Saltcreek High School in the class of 1958.

Herb was a life-long businessman, having started his own logging and trucking business in 1972. He owned and operated Circleville Hardwood, Inc. and Speakman Enterprises Trucking for 35 years. He was so fortunate to have had wonderful employees who later became lifelong friends.

Among his many interests were collecting antique vehicles and going to car races. He also loved to go hunting and fishing with his buddies, especially after catching the largest perch in Lake Erie for the year in 1988.

He was a great carpenter and wood worker, building several homes in his life. After retirement from business in 2006, Herb settled down on his farm in Saltcreek Township with wonderful neighbors on every side of him.

Herb was survived by loving wife of 65 years, Patricia; daughter, Susan (Rod Rhymer) Schwalbauch; granddaughter, Libby (Forrest) Baldwin; grandson Aaron (Kayla) Schwalbauch; great-grandson, Rocky Schwalbauch; brother, Joe (Marcia) Speakman; sister, Judy (Frank) Raymond; and many nieces, nephews, and other family members.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Melvin and Thelma Speakman; siblings, Pete, Windy, and Donna Mae; grandson Cody Schwalbauch; and nephews, Brian and Stoney Speakman.

We will gather to mourn Herb's loss and celebrate his life on Wednesday, January 21, from 4 - 7 PM, for visitation, and on Thursday, January 22, at 1:00 PM for funeral services at HILL FUNERAL HOME, Kingston. He will be buried at Green Summit Cemetery in Adelphi following the funeral. In lieu of flowers, Herb's family asks that donations be made to Fairhope Rehabilitation's Pickering House (282 Sells Rd, Lancaster, OH 43130).

Herb will be forever loved and remembered by family and friends. We will miss the old fart. Condolences can be made on Herb's online tribute wall at www.hillfhkingston.com.