Regina Smith dies in fatal Noccalula Falls swimming accident

Regina Smith dies in fatal Noccalula Falls swimming accident

Fatal Noccalula Falls swimming accident death of Regina Smith – Obituary

Regina Smith, 51, lost her life after being swept away while swimming near Noccalula Falls in Gadsden, Alabama. Her body was discovered Tuesday morning by rescue teams roughly 200 feet from the mouth of Black Creek gorge, two days after she was reported missing.

Smith, a resident of Lincoln who lived by Logan Martin Lake, had a deep love for water and nature. According to her son Dawson, she frequently visited oceans, lakes, waterfalls, and rapids, and had cherished Noccalula Falls for years. The area was a favorite family destination with memories stretching back to his childhood.

On the evening of Sunday, May 25, Regina was at the Falls with her youngest son. While swimming in a pool below the waterfall, she reportedly drifted too far. Though her son urged her to come back, she reassured him that she was fine. Those were her final words before disappearing from view: “This is the best day of my life.”

When she didn’t return, 911 was called and a large-scale search began, involving drones, scent dogs, and ground crews from several counties. Despite difficult weather and treacherous terrain, the search continued through Monday and into Tuesday. Her body was eventually spotted by a drone and confirmed by a team on foot. Due to the challenging conditions of the gorge, a high-angle rope recovery was required, concluding around 2 p.m.

Her son Dawson, who flew in from Oklahoma upon hearing the news, expressed grief and gratitude. He reflected on their shared love for water, particularly their beach birthday traditions, as they were born on the same day. Regina’s joy, her constant smile, and her peaceful connection to the water are the memories her family now clings to.

Local authorities urge visitors to stay on marked trails and avoid the dangerous areas of the gorge, which include swift currents, hidden caverns, and steep terrain. Regina’s tragic death serves as a reminder of the unpredictable power of nature, even in places we hold dear.