Pinson, Ala., farrier Herbert "Andy" Darden passed away. He was 86.

Darden served in the U.S. Navy from 1958 to 1962. He was a 60-year member of the Sheet Metal Workers Union Local 48, a lifetime member of the American Farrier's Association and a member of the World Champion Blacksmiths. Darden was also a toolmaker and friend to many.

"Andy wasn't just good at what he did. He was one of those rare people who carried decades of knowledge without ever making you feel small for asking a question. The kind of guy who could fix a problem you didn't even know you had, then teach you how to see it for yourself. His passing is a hell of a loss for all of us — for farriers, for tool makers, for anyone who believes craftsmanship still matters," says Sagamore Beach, Mass., farrier Nick Denson on Facebook.

Darden is survived by his three daughters, seven grandchildren, one great-granddaughter and many family and friends. Funeral service will be held Dec. 3, 2025, at the Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home in Birmingham, Ala. To send flowers, visit the floral store here.

Read more about Darden's life and work in an interview with Ontario farrier Katie Gaudet here.