GREENSBURG, Pa. – The Westmoreland County community is mourning the loss of prominent local automotive sales executive Mark Smail, who died unexpectedly at the age of 62. Smail, a well-respected figure with a family legacy in the car sales business spanning over five decades, passed away after falling ill during a ride home from Seven Springs Mountain resort.
Smail, the general manager of Smail Auto Group in Hempfield, was known for his commitment to the local community and the company’s successful expansion along Route 30. His sudden death has left many in shock, including Westmoreland County Coroner Tim Carson, who confirmed that there was nothing suspicious about the circumstances surrounding Smail’s passing.
His daughter, Taylor Smail, took to Facebook to express the family’s shock and gratitude for the outpouring of support. The Westmoreland County Chamber of Commerce president and CEO, Dan DeBone, also expressed his devastation, describing Smail as a tremendous entrepreneur and friend to the community.
Smail’s dedication to giving back to the community was evident in his company’s response to the pandemic, as DeBone highlighted how Smail managed to retain all of his 500-plus employees without layoffs.
The unexpected loss of Smail has not only impacted his family and the local business community but has also stirred memories of his late father, Clarence “Bud” Smail, who ran the dealership for decades and was a well-known philanthropist in the area.
Funeral arrangements are now underway as the community continues to come to terms with the loss of a beloved figure who made significant contributions to Westmoreland County.