Read Gary Edward Smith's Obituary & Leave Condolences

In memory of

Gary Edward Smith

Cortland, NY, USA

December 17, 1938 - August 1, 2020

Dec 17, 1938 - Aug 1, 2020

Help keep everyone in the know by sharing this memorial website.

Share

Photo

Gary Edward Smith, 81, passed away on August 1st, 2020 in Syracuse New York while in the wonderful care of the VA medical staff. Gary is survived by his sister Margaret, son Jason (Holly), daughter Jacklyn and grandchildren Berklee, Brevin and Brightyn. He was preceded in death by his parents (Robert, Sylvia) and sister (Kay). Gary was born December 17th, 1938 to Robert and Sylvia Smith in Trumansburg, New York. He spent his youth learning and growing on the family farm in Trumansburg. He often shared his memories and lessons he learned from the farm with his children and grand children. Gary found time to be involved in athletics by playing football, basketball and baseball. He passed along his love and knowledge of these sports to his family and others. Gary served honorably in the U.S. Navy from 1962-1965. He spent some of his Naval time in Vietnam in the early years of the war. His family is grateful for his example and service. Later in his life he coached youth in multiple sports and was especially fond of coaching youth football. After many years working as a quality control engineer for companies such a Apple and McDonnell Douglas he retired, but stayed active. Gary could be found on the golf course, fishing or in the stands of any local high school basketball or football game. He enjoyed the atmosphere, competition and watching young people strive to succeed. There was no other place he would have rather been on a Friday night. In addition, Gary loved to talk politics and anything John Wayne. If he wasn't watching a ball game, he would be tuned into any old western and could quote lines from various westerns at will. Gary will be missed but thought of frequently anytime there is a "ball game" or John Wayne movie on the TV. Gary will be honorably interned at the VA cemetery in Elmira New York. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider any donation to your local VA organization.

Order a beautiful PDF you can print and save or share.

Get the PDF

Get notified when new photos, stories and other important updates are shared.