Gary Lynn Smith

Gary was born April 29, 1943 in Clovis, New Mexico. He was preceded in death by his mother, lona Frances Smith and father, Richard Alva Smith. He is survived by his wife, Janet Garner Smith of Ashland, Alabama, brothers Bruce Smith (wife Linda) of Bosque Farms, New Mexico and Lee Smith (wife Linda) of Moriarty, New Mexico.

Gary attended schools in Clovis, New Mexico, Amarillo, Texas and Plainview, Texas, graduating in the upper third of his class from Plainview, Texas High School in 1961. While in high school he played bass in the band and was listed in "First Chair of America".

Gary attended college at New Mexico State University as a coop student, working at White Sands Missile Range. He also attended college at Texas Tech and University of Arkansas at Little Rock. He had an Associate Degree in Electronics and worked as Field Service Engineer for Control Data Corporation, Data Card Corporation and Bowe System. He completed his working career as a Multimedia Technician for BellSouth and AT&T.

Gary served our country as a submarine Sailor in the US Navy, earning his dolphins aboard the last diesel-electric submarine commissioned by the United States, USS Blueback, SS-581. He remained in touch with former shipmates as a member of the B Girls Reunion Association. He was also a member of Fleet Reserve Association.

On April 8, 1994 Gary was wed to Janet Garner in Marietta, Georgia. When Janet and Gary retired from their respective career occupations in 2008 they relocated to Ashland, Alabama.

As enrolled members of the Ontario Woodland Metis Tribe and Chaplains in the Black Warrior American Indian Church, Janet and Gary provided spiritual guidance for incarcerated Native Americans for eleven years of prison ministry. They also both sang on the Native drum group Buffalo Heart and participated in countless area Native American festivals where Janet set up a vendor booth and Gary often served as emcee.

Gary was involved in local theater in Ashland, Alabama where he and his wife, Janet, operated a small organic herbal farm. He was a member of East Alabama Beekeepers Association, Alabama Medicinal Plant Growers Association and was an Alabama Master Gardener and member of East Central Alabama Master Gardeners Association.

Gary was a cornerstone of many people’s lives. His dedication, kindness, expertise, and his fun spirit will forever be missed.

Arrangements entrusted to Schoedinger Dublin. A graveside service will be held at Dayton National Cemetery, 4400 W Third St, Dayton, OH 45428, on Friday, June 7, 2024 at 9:00am.