Gary Smith

Gary Wayne Smith, age 77, passed away on Wednesday, August 25, 2021, at his residence in Cullowhee, NC. He is now in the arms of his Savior.

A native of Asheboro, North Carolina, he was a son of the late Warren Edward and Kathleen Jones Smith. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his older brother, Gene Smith. Gary proudly served his country in the United States Navy and served on the USS Dewey during the Cuban Missile Crisis as part of the Cuban blockade. He was a member of Redeemer Presbyterian Church in Sylva. Gary was a business owner in the Wilmington and Raleigh areas. He enjoyed woodworking, competitive croquet, and spending time with his family.

Gary is survived by his wife of 42 years, Deborah W. Smith; a son, Darren W. Smith and his wife Tracie of Wake Forest; a daughter, Kathleen S. Herrmann and her husband Nathan of Greenville, S.C.; and a son, Eric W. Smith and his wife Sara of Cullowhee; a sister, Ann S. Smith and her husband John of Raleigh; a brother, Tim D. Smith and his wife Sharon of Wilmington; three grandchildren, Liam, Julianne, and Wescott; and a niece, Crystal Smith.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 4, 2021, at Redeemer Presbyterian Church, 86 Story Book Lane, Sylva, N.C. 28779.

The family asks that no flowers be sent for the service or that those who honor us with their presence at the service refrain from wearing strong scents due to severe allergies among members of the family. Also, please note that the church is requiring masks.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Redeemer Presbyterian Church benevolence fund.

The care of Mr. Smith has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville.