Obituary of Gary Byron Smith

Gary Byron Smith 

December 27, 1953 – February 25, 2026 

​Gary Byron Smith, age 72, of Wheeler, Michigan, passed away at Midland Hospital on Wednesday, February 25, 2026. Born on December 27, 1953, in St. louis, Michigan, to the late Ronwick and Annette (Gotham)Smith, Gary lived a life deeply rooted in community, family, and the simple joys of the outdoors. 

​A true people person, Gary was the kind of neighbor everyone hopes to have. He was always looking out for others and never hesitated to lend a helping hand, whether that meant mowing a lawn, plowing snow out the driveway or tackling small odd jobs for anyone in need.  

Gary was happiest when he was outside or in his mancave tinkering.  He loved the warmth of a good bonfire and created lasting memories taking his grandchildren for tractor rides around the block, always with one of his dogs resting happily on his lap. 

 He shared his home and his life in Wheeler with his loving wife of 52 years, Noreen Ada Smith, and his two loyal dogs, Tuffy and Tyson. 

​He is survived by his wife, Noreen; his children, Gary Smith Jr.(Johnna) Smith, Hilda (Scott) Quick, Ronald Smith, and Steven (Bethany)Smith and his cherished grandchildren, Bradley (Ally) Quick, Darren Smith, Jaycup Smith, Nathan Smith, Joseph Quick, Johnathan Smith, Nicole Smith, Ryan Quick, Hunter Smith, Nikia Smith, Ivy Cermak, Sophia Smith and Ada Smith. Lifelong family friends, Steven and Kristina Moore and their kids Darian Richardson and Zachary Moore. Also surviving are Francisco and Stephanie Contreras and their kids Alexa Larose, Jake Contreras and Savanna Alwoodl; and grandchildren that loved calling across the street to say (Hi grandpa). 

​Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Ronwick and Annette Smith; his son, Herbie Smith; his brother, Rick Smith; including his favorite companion dog, Misci.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 14,2026 from 1pm -5pm at Pine  River Township Hall, 1495 W. Monroe Rd., St. Louis, Michigan 48880 

 To sign online guestbook, visit www.cremationsocietymidmi.com  Arrangements made with the Cremation Society of Mid Michigan.