Gary Dean Smith, of Dixon, was born on July 14, 1942, in Salt Lake City, Utah, a son of George Ernest and Marguerite Hilda (Nelson) Smith, and departed this life at 6:05 a.m., on Friday, May 15, 2020, in the Dixon Nursing and Rehab. He had attained the age of 77 years, 10 months, and 1 day.

On July 28, 1959, Gary entered into active federal service in the Army of the United States, and served in Germany until he was honorably discharged on July 13, 1962. His "Honorable Discharge" is a testimonial of honest and faithful service to his country.

Gary enjoyed fishing, flea marketing, reading, photography, and being with his family and friends. He was an avid supporter and former sponsor of Alcoholics Anonymous. He worked hard all of his life in various job venues – he was truly a 'Jack of All Trades and a Master of None.'

Those left to mourn the passing of Gary include: His friend and companion of forty years, Mary Carroll, of the home near Dixon; one sister, Betty Ruth Hall, and husband, Gratton "Red" of Springville, Utah; sister-in-law, Rosalie Smith (Lavar), Utah; multiple nephews and nieces, with greats and great-greats located throughout the United States; his pet dog, "Whozit"; and other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, George, in 1979; his mother, Marguerite, in 1981; and siblings Alfred Prudence; Verda Elaine Hoecherl and husband, Ray; LaVar Virgil Smith and wife, Patty; Marilyn Joyce Paterson and husband, Scott; and Wayne Ernest Smith and wife, Anita.

Visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m., on Wednesday, May 20, 2020, in the Dixon Chapel of the Birmingham-Martin Funeral Home at 105 East Third Street, Dixon, Missouri 65459, with his Celebration of Life Service following at 2:00 p.m. in the Chapel. Gary's honorary pallbearers will be Don Major, Kenny Major, Chris Paterson, Pat Paterson, Scott Paterson, and Robert Johnson.

'In lieu of flowers, family suggests memorial contributions to be used to benefit veterans in memory of Mr. Gary Dean Smith. Envelopes are available at the funeral home or can be sent in care of Birmingham-Martin Funeral Home, P.O. Box EE, Dixon, Missouri 65459.