Gary D. Smith of Oronogo, Missouri passed away at the age of 74. He was the first born son to Dale (Phillip) and Eloise Smith. Gary grew up in Oronogo building friendships that would stand to last a lifetime, most notably his friendship with Jack (Punkin) Harpole. Gary was blessed with loving parents, and two younger brothers Greg Smith and Jeff Smith.

As a young adult, Gary graduated from Webb City High School and enlisted in the Air Force after graduation. The experiences he had while serving his country would forever shape the man he became.

After his service, he attended college at Missouri Southern and earned a bachelor’s degree in teaching. Gary married during this time, and had his first child, Michael, whom he is now joyfully reunited with. After teaching for a few years in Conway, MO, Gary moved back home to pursue other careers. During this time he met a new love, Cathy, and her two children Chad and Ashley. They soon married and had a daughter together, Amanda. He spent several years raising and loving them all.

After trying on several different careers after his military service, Gary found his niche in owning and operating a successful mortgage company in Joplin. All of his career adventures aside, Gary’s greatest roll was that of a father (his daughter would say the greatest father that ever lived). Then was proudly promoted to PaPa of Katelynn (Sissy) and Madilynn (Midge) to later be blessed as Great PaPa (“night night PaPa”) to Hadley. This was his core. This was his purpose. He loved them all unconditionally, and they him.

A man of quiet faith with a lifetime of stories, friendships, wisdom and love returned home to the Lord after a long fought battle. May this remarkable Father, PaPa, Brother and Friend rest in eternal peace.

An honorable mention to his beloved granddoggers “Cooper” and “Ralph” and a lifelong love of the St Louis Baseball program.

A memorial visitation will be held for Gary on Friday, January 14th at 6pm at the Simpson Funeral Home of Webb City.