Read Gary Lee Smith (Sr.)'s Obituary & Leave Condolences

In memory of

Gary Lee Smith (Sr.)

Moffat, CO

October 22, 1946 - January 11, 2026

Oct 22, 1946 - Jan 11, 2026

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Gary Smith was born on October 22, 1946, in Leadville, Colorado, to Bruce Edward Smith and Mildred Catherine (McKay) Smith. He passed away on January 11, 2026.

Gary grew up in Leadville, where he learned the value of hard work early in life. As a boy, he held a paper route with the Herald Democrat, delivering papers along West 8th Street and the surrounding neighborhood. It was important to him that his life be remembered in the community where it began.

At sixteen, Gary took a job in Stringtown cleaning and collecting bricks at a local smelter, operating a tractor and earning what he later recalled was good money for the time. These early experiences shaped his strong work ethic and practical outlook on life.

Gary was drafted into the United States Army on April 15, 1965, and was honorably discharged on April 14, 1971. During his service, he was injured and carried the lasting effects of that injury throughout his life.

In his younger years, Gary loved hunting, fishing, and spending time outdoors, finding peace and enjoyment in nature.

He had a great sense of humor and could make a joke out of almost anything. He was often deeply pragmatic, while still being a dreamer at heart, offering advice that balanced honesty with care. "Shit in one hand, and wish in the other...then see which one fills up first." was one of his common sayings.

Gary had a natural way of engaging children and encouraging their imagination. Through a playful world he created called “the pinchers,” he brought to life simple hand characters with distinct personalities, using them to teach lessons of sharing and kindness. What began as playful moments became lasting memories for his youngest child and grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister Joan; and his brother Edward “Sonny.” He is survived by his sisters Cheryl, Joyce, Dar, and Linda.

Gary married Dolores (Jennings) on July 6, 1968, in Leadville, Colorado. Together they had four children: Gary Jr., Holly, Scott, and Tammy.

He is survived by his grandchildren Scott (son of Gary Jr.); Jennifer and James (children of Holly); Angelica, Stephen, and Chase (children of Scott); and Forrest, Ruedi, and Rem (children of Tammy).

He is also survived by his great-grandchildren Aaliyah (daughter of Angelica), Brock (son of Stephen), Finn (son of Chase), and Emma (daughter of Ruedi).

Gary was deeply loved by his family. His grandson Ruedi described him as “the kind of man who would give you the shirt off his back if you were struggling.”

Services will be held at a later date.

“Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,

I will fear no evil: for thou art with me;

thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.”

— Psalm 23:4

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