Gary Smith Obituary

Gary Winton Smith, 86, of Leawood, Kansas, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 21, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born May 15, 1939, in Kearney, Nebraska, to Donald and Fern (Murphy) Smith, Gary was the eldest of four children and a lifelong example of strength, service, and devotion. A man of unwavering faith and steadfast principle, he proudly served four years in the United States Navy—carrying the discipline and dignity of that service into every chapter of his life.

Gary dedicated over 30 years to the funeral profession, offering compassion and care to families in their most difficult moments. It was more than a career; it was a calling.

While attending Kearney State College, Gary met Jan, the love of his life. They were married in Wyoming, Michigan, and later moved to Chicago, where he completed Mortuary Science school. After two years in the city, Gary began his funeral director career in Laurel, Nebraska.

Gifted with his hands and a fixer of all things, Gary loved fishing, golf, and time spent tinkering in the garage. He shared 58 wonderful years of marriage with Jan (Rosenberg) Smith. He was endlessly proud of their children, Craig (Jennie) Smith and Kindra (Bill) Wilson, and deeply devoted to his grandsons, Jake and Garrett Wilson—never missing a game or a moment to cheer them on.

Gary worked hard to provide for his family, loved unconditionally, and was known for his teasing humor, generous spirit, and ability to make everyone feel seen and valued. He never met a stranger and left a lasting impression wherever he went.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Jan; his children and their spouses; his grandchildren, Jake and Garrett; and his siblings, Donnett Blakely, Mike (Suzie) Smith, and Vicki Alexander.

Gary’s legacy of love, integrity, and quiet strength lives on in all who knew and loved him.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 6th, 1:00 pm at Mill Creek Community Church, 7825 Gleason Road, Shawnee, KS 66227.

Memorial gifts may be sent to Mill Creek Community Church, with the memo: Gary Smith Memorial and can be mailed to Mill Creek Community Church, 7825 Gleason, Shawnee, KS 66227.

To leave a special message for his family or to share a memory of Gary, please visit the guestbook below.