Posted on August 18, 2025 at 8:00 AM by Anna Egan
Carrie Smith is remembered as a devoted 4-H member, leader, and volunteer whose life perfectly reflects the spirit of the Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame. From a shy 10-year-old with hearing challenges to a beloved mentor and club leader, Carrie’s journey was one of perseverance, kindness, and unwavering commitment to youth development.
Carrie’s 4-H story began with the Clay Busy Bees in Grundy County. Though communication was difficult, her creativity and competitive spirit helped her overcome her fear of speaking to judges and groups. She quickly became a leader, serving as a club officer, County Council member, and regular exhibitor at county and state fairs. Her favorite 4-H experiences included camps, trips, and the annual Halloween party—especially connecting with peers, even while waiting in line. Known for her quick humor and incredible ability to “listen” from across the room by lip-reading, Carrie had a unique gift for making others feel seen.
As an adult, Carrie returned to lead the same club that had once helped shape her. She poured herself into the role, mentoring youth, supporting families, and volunteering at countless events, including omelet breakfasts, County Council functions, and her favorite—the Grundy County Fair. Each summer, she used vacation time from work to be present all week, helping first-year members, attending shows, and cheering from the sidelines, always with homemade bars in tow.
Carrie passed away at 48, but her legacy lives on through two Grundy County 4-H awards named in her honor—one for youth and one for adults who reflect her values of service, encouragement, and dedication.
Guthrie County
Randy and Lynnette Hughes
Randy and Lynnette Hughes have been lifelong champions of 4-H, farming, and community service. Their story together began at the Iowa State Fair in 1982 and took root in Guthrie County, where their shared love for agriculture blossomed into a life of leadership and service.
After marrying and settling near Bayard, Randy and Lynnette raised their children, Courtney and Cody, on the farm. Both kids were active in 4-H, showing cattle and pigs. Lynnette served as an EMT with the Bayard ambulance, offering care and comfort to the community, while Randy was a firefighter, providing emergency support and embodying service.
Their commitment to 4-H deepened over the years. Lynnette became a 4-H club leader for the Dodge Dodgers and served on the Extension/4-H Youth Committee, mentoring countless youth. Randy led as President of the Guthrie County Cattlemen for eight years, organizing community events, fundraisers, and cookouts. Both became known for their generosity, leadership, and willingness to help others succeed.
Through Hughes Cattle Company, they welcomed many 4-H’ers and families into their lives. Young people like Gabby, Tucker, Taryn, Bob, and Kole became extended family, receiving guidance, love, and support as if they were their children.
Randy passed away on November 15, 2023. The outpouring of love and support following his passing reflected the deep and lasting impact he and Lynnette have had on the community. Lynnette and their children continue to honor his legacy, carrying forward the values of hard work, mentorship, and the 4-H spirit they’ve always embodied.
