Gary E. Smith

Age 76, of Millington, passed away on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at his home. A celebration of Gary’s life will take place at 1:00pm, Wednesday, November 26, 2025, at Martin Funeral, Cremation & Tribute Services in Mt. Morris. Mr. Ron Smith will officiate. The family will gather at the funeral home to receive friends from 12:00 noon until the time of service at 1:00pm. In accordance with his wishes, cremation has taken place and a private committal service will take place at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly. Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family on Gary’s tribute wall at martinfuneralhome.com.

Gary was born on October 2, 1949, in Saginaw the son of Mr. and Mrs. George M. and Marguerite (Kingsley) Smith. Shortly after graduating, Gary joined the US Army where he served his country as a medic. Upon his return to civilian life, he moved to Millington. His career path would lead him to the automotive industry, where he worked at Buick as a truck driver and heavy equipment operator until his retirement after 30 years of service. He was a proud member of UAW Local #599, where he also served as a committeeman for many years. Throughout his life, Gary loved animals, having a pet raccoon he rescued at one point and numerous dogs and cats, including his current cat, Walter. He was truly adventurous in spirit and was drawn to all things “fast.” He raced snowmobiles for many years, including the I-500 in the U.P., his #26 Sprint Racer and had many fast cars and motorcycles. He even had his own hang glider and went skydiving many times. Gary loved tinkering in his garage with anything that had a motor and his collection of John Deere Tractors. He will be truly missed.

Left to cherish his memory are his brothers and sisters: Susan Shimmons and Bill Ayotte, Michael and wife, Diane Beito, and Melissa and husband, Tom Martin, nieces and nephews: Tina and Tony Como, Amy Shimmons, Michele Beito, Michael Beito, Valerie Beito and Michael Swiatkowski, Matthew Beito, Jeremy Beito, Sarah Martin and Steven Zavala and Stephen Martin and Sydni King, aunt, Carol Vickers, and many other cousins and friends.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, stepmother, Elsie Smith, two sisters, Lynette and SuEllen, brother, Phil, and two brothers-in-law, Robert Shimmons and Dennis Salim.