Gary Wayne Smith

Gary Wayne Smith, born on October 2, 1947, in Hot Springs, Arkansas, passed away on June 21, 2024, in Payson, Utah. Gary's life was marked by dedication to his faith, family, and hard work. A veteran who served as a radar technician during the Vietnam conflict in Washington D.C., it was during this time that he found solace and purpose in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and was baptized on his 24th birthday. He met his wife, Patty Urry Smith, a few months later at the LDS Institute of Religion at the University of Oregon.

Gary's professional journey led him to serve The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 26 years until his retirement in 2011. He made significant contributions by designing the current vertical tithing slip template and authoring various financial clerk manuals. Gary's educational pursuits were equally impressive, holding a Bachelor of Science from the University of Oregon and a Masters of Instructional Design from Brigham Young University.

Beyond his professional and academic endeavors, Gary's true joy came from putting his family first. Known for his humorous dad jokes and captivating stories, he always brought smiles and laughter to family gatherings. An avid music enthusiast, Gary possessed an extensive knowledge of 60s bands with a particular fondness for The Beatles.

In his leisure time, Gary cherished moments with his beloved wife Patty while playing the guitar, watching movies, solving word puzzles, engaging in card games, and playing pool. Despite being perceived as reserved initially, those who knew Gary well discovered his warm and humorous nature that endeared him to many.

Gary battled Parkinson's disease courageously until his passing. He is survived by his loving wife Patty Smith; children Marcie Smith, Joel Smith (Natalie), Kevin Smith (Deborah), Melissa Smith, Christina Gentile (Nick); grandchildren Parker Smith, Stewart Smith, Paige Smith, Mia Gentile, Kimball Smith, Joshua Gentile, Acadia Gentile, Kate Smith, Chloe Smith; Hope Gentile; Elsie Smith; Danny Gentile; Joseph Gentile; James Smith; Lamar Smith; along with deceased by Kelsey and Edith Smith (parents), Joel Edwin Smith, and Bruce L Smith (brothers).

The viewing will take place on June 30,2024 from 6:00 - 8:00 pm. and a funeral service will be held on July 1, 2024  at 11:00 AM both at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints at 610 W 300 S, Provo, Utah 84601. 

Gary Wayne Smith will be deeply missed but forever remembered for his unwavering faith, dedication to family, and the joy he brought to all those whose lives he touched.

The Family invites those who are unable to attend the funeral service, to join online using the link below. 

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/5081906741?pwd=YndHd1NaVnRFb3JkRXpKU3NxUloxdz09&omn=82696083740

 Meeting ID: 508 190 6741.    Passcode: cy6LgM