Story behind the name

People often ask how we came up with the name Bee Smoker Tex BBQ, and this is the story behind it.

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My wife was very close friends with Joy Hummel. In December of 2009, Joy, her daughter Jodi, Joy’s father Clyde, and Joy’s unborn baby tragically lost their lives in a horrific event. Their story can be found by searching Joy Hummel from Kennedale, Texas. Though I never had the opportunity to meet Joy myself, the impact she had on my wife—and on everyone who knew her—has always been deeply felt.

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When we decided to pursue BBQ and began searching for the right name, I knew I wanted it to somehow honor Joy’s memory. My wife mentioned that Joy once had a massage business that included the word “Bee” in the name. She couldn’t recall the correct name, and those who knew Joy mentioned Bee Massage, Bumble Bee Massage, etc., but we haven't found anything that was for certain.

As we tossed around ideas, the name Bee Smoker came about. A bee smoker is a real tool used by beekeepers to calm bees, and the word “smoker” fits naturally in the BBQ world. We also loved the idea of a fun, recognizable mascot, and a bee felt like the perfect symbol—warm, hardworking, and full of life— which describes how Joy carried herself.

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Even though I never got to meet Joy, we’re grateful that our business gives us a small way to help carry on her legacy and keep the memory of her and her family alive. December 18 marks the anniversary of their passing.

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Rest in peace, Joy, Jodi, Clyde, and baby Hummel. Thank you for being a part of our journey and our story.