Gary Smith, a cherished soul known for his loving, gentle, and thoughtful nature, passed away peacefully at West FL hospital in Pensacola, FL at the age of 70 , with his family by his side . Born on March 9, 1954 in Lockhart , Alabama, Gary’s life was a testament to the power of kindness and the enduring strength of family bonds.
He is preceded in death by his first wife of 40yrs, Wanda Smith, parents , Eloise Smith Lundy (WT), and William Smith, Jr ( Lottie) and brother, Bobby Smith.
Gary is survived by his loving wife, Ingrid Williams Smith, daughter, Michelle Smith Manning, adoptive daughter, Cyndi German, step-son Michael (Morgan) Taylor, sister, Janet Johnson (Bill) brother, James Smith, grandchildren, Andrea Hambrick (Scott) , Hunter Manning (Sierra) , Kailey , Rylie , Lily and Elizabeth Taylor (Izzy) .Great-grandchildren, Easton and Maverick Manning, Jaxon and Oakley Hambrick as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Gary was a beloved and much respected resident of Crestview, Florida .He graduated from Crestview high school and enlisted with the United States Army as an Armored Tanker. After his years of service in the United States Army, Gary’s professional life was unremarkable as he retired with the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Department, after 33 years . After retiring, he spent 7 years as Captain of Security with Vertex Corporation.
His colleagues knew him as a steadfast and reliable presence, someone who brought warmth and care to work every day. Gary’s dedication to his job was matched as a long-standing member of Life Tabernacle Church, where he found solace and joy in the community and worship.He will be
remembered for his infectious smile, generosity, and love for his family and friends. His family was his first love and priority .
His gentle soul and thoughtful nature will be deeply missed, but the love he gave will endure always.
Funeral services will be held Tuesday, February 25, 2025 at 12 PM beginning at Life Tabernacle with Pastor Michael Braswell officiating. The family will receive friends from 11 – 12 PM at the church. Burial will follow in Greenwood Cemetery in Florala, Alabama .
Flowers will be accepted.
Brackney Funeral Service, Crestview, is entrusted with arrangements.
You can share memories and offer condolences at http://www.brackneyfuneralservice.com
Life Tabernacle
Life Tabernacle
David Edge
February 23, 2025, 3:41 am
Sorry for the families loss. I knew Gary since 1st grade. We were friends and enjoyed each others time together. Good luck old friend
Debbie Bradley
February 23, 2025, 10:00 pm
My sincere thoughts and prayers to the family. Gary and I were childhood friends and lived across the street from each other. He was always so kind and smiled a lot being as sweet as anyone can imagine. We recently connected and it was a time of happy memories. All my condolences to you!!
Foster Adam Capps
February 24, 2025, 6:21 am
I’m sorry for your loss he will be remembered by many and also missed. Prayers for y’all’s family.
Vickie Enfield
February 25, 2025, 2:16 am
We attended the Okaloosa/walton comm. College to become corrections officers in 1985 and then worked for the Okaloosa county dept of corrections for many years together. He was a fine man and always looking out for others. It was honor to work with him. He will be missed. My heart goes out to his family and friends
Cyndi German
February 25, 2025, 4:37 pm
I miss seeing your smiling face and all the conversations we had at lunch. My heart hurts for everyone who loved you. You were were truly Amazing and someone to look up to if life. Thank you for loving me and putting up with Michelle and I. Thanks for treating me like a daughter. Love you much.
Always,
Cyndi
Trammel, CharMel and Timmy Fowler
February 25, 2025, 9:26 pm
Our thoughts of precious memories with Gary and his family are with each of you. May the Lord’s arms comfort you. I was 14 years of age when I met the family. We all rode the bus together to school. Gary was the protector, whereas Bobby had to pick on me and sweet Janet so quiet and shy. We grew up, married, had our babies, with life taking us in different directions. Our families remained a part of each other’s life through simple blessings and prayer. Gary stopped at Timmy’s house not long ago to chat about Timmy helping Gary on his pond. They planned to this Spring.
Tram, Timmy and I send our love and deepest condolences to the family, each and every one.
Gary, you were a true gentleman, a kind soul and appreciated by many friends and your family. You were, and are, loved and will be so missed and forever remembered.
Kelsey
February 26, 2025, 11:45 am
Please accept my deepest condolences. I am praying for the family in time of grief and sorrow. Gary had a bright soul. ♥️
Wendy
February 26, 2025, 2:40 pm
Always ready and waiting with a smile and offering of “kind words”, the kind that can make someones day!
Beautiful Soul!
Fly High Captain!
Pat
March 1, 2025, 4:58 pm
I enjoyed the opportunity to work with Gary for a couple years. He was a very good man. I pray for peace and comfort for his family as I know he will be sorely missed. RIP Gary.
Amy Bell
March 4, 2025, 3:46 pm
Gary was a a precious soul and such a joy to get to know. Even in his darkest hours his light shown bright! My love and prayers go out to his sweet wife Ingrid and his wonderful family and friends! May you all find strength and comfort knowing he’s whole and at peace!