Moonshiners Tim Smith Wife Shelby Smith and Son – Where is He Now?

Tim Smith may be best known as one of the standout stars of Discovery Channel’s hit docudrama Moonshiners, but his influence stretches far beyond the TV screen. As a legal moonshine producer, family man, and firefighter, Smith has turned his passion for Appalachian tradition into a thriving business and a beloved on-screen persona.

A Life Rooted in Tradition and Family

Born on December 23, 1966, in Virginia, Tim Smith grew up immersed in the culture of backwoods distilling. It was his late father who first introduced him to the art of moonshining—a craft that would eventually become Tim’s life calling. By the time he was a teenager, Tim was already helping with distilling operations, learning the rules of secrecy, craftsmanship, and survival.

Following his father’s death, Tim took over the family responsibilities and continued to hone his skills in the hidden woods of Virginia—often with just his loyal dog by his side, keeping watch for law enforcement.

In 1986, Tim married his longtime partner Shelby Smith. The couple has remained inseparable for over 35 years, building a life grounded in family values and shared resilience. Together, they have one son, JT Smith.

Meet the Next Generation: JT Smith

JT Smith, now in his early twenties, is proudly following in his father’s footsteps in community service, if not moonshining. He works as a volunteer firefighter with the Climax Fire Department, where he has been recognized for his dedication—earning first-place honors as a top runner. Off-duty, JT enjoys the outdoors, spending his leisure time hunting, fishing, and riding four-wheelers.

He is happily married to Ashley Smith, and the young couple shares a quiet life grounded in Appalachian tradition. Meanwhile, Shelby Smith works as a school nutritionist at Gretna Elementary, contributing to her community in a hands-on way that mirrors the family’s values of service and simplicity.

Moonshine to Mainstream: The Rise of Climax Moonshine

After years of operating in secrecy, Tim Smith made a bold move in May 2013 by going legit—launching his own licensed brand, Climax Moonshine. Named after his hometown of Climax, Virginia, the brand quickly gained popularity and is now legally distributed across several U.S. states, including Tennessee, South Carolina, West Virginia, and Maryland.

The legal moonshine line marked a turning point not just for Tim’s career, but also for the image of moonshining itself. His success proved that the age-old craft could find a place in modern markets without losing its soul.

Television Fame and Financial Success

Smith rose to national fame through Moonshiners, where audiences were drawn to his authenticity, grit, and deep connection to tradition. His presence on the show turned him into a household name among fans of rural reality TV.

According to Celebrity Net Worth, Tim Smith’s estimated net worth in 2021 was around $150,000. With Discovery Channel personalities earning an average of $84,269 per year, his income from television adds a solid supplement to his earnings from Climax Moonshine.

Quick Facts: Tim Smith

Born: December 23, 1966
Hometown: Climax, Virginia
Height: 5 feet 8 inches
Weight: 78 kilograms
Married to: Shelby Smith (since 1986)
Children: One son, JT Smith
Business: Founder of Climax Moonshine
TV Show: Moonshiners (Discovery Channel)

The Legacy Continues

Whether distilling moonshine or serving as a fire chief, Tim Smith remains a symbol of hard work, authenticity, and Appalachian pride. With a career that blends tradition and entrepreneurship, and a family grounded in love and service, Tim has carved out a legacy that’s as enduring as the spirit he bottles.

Would you like a follow-up piece focusing on the origins of Climax Moonshine or Tim’s most iconic moments from Moonshiners?