Gary Albert Smith, 88, of South Charleston, WV, went to His heavenly home on April 10, 2026, at Hubbard Hospice House, Charleston, WV.
A proud and devoted United States Marine Corps veteran, Gary honorably served his country from January 1, 1955, to July 31, 1975, including service during both the Korean War and the Vietnam War. Throughout his distinguished military career, he accomplished many great things and rose through the ranks, proudly earning the title of Gunnery Sergeant. In addition, he served as a Recruiting Sergeant, worked as a Federal Sky Marshal. He was recognized as an Expert Pistol Shooter and Firearms Instructor. His dedication, discipline, and leadership were evident in every role he held.
Gary was born on April 23, 1937, in Corton, West Virginia, to his loving parents, Albert Cross and Rena Mae McCune Smith. He was one of 12 siblings. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by siblings Gail Smith, Larry Smith, Jimmy Smith, Paul Smith, John Smith, Lawrence Smith, Pauline Wingate, Arlene Baer, Louise Maddox, and Joan Smith. He carried the values instilled in him from an early age throughout his life-faith, loyalty, strength, and perseverance.
Gary is survived by his three beloved children: Kimra Sharlene Steckbeck and husband Doug, Brenda Joan Smith, and Linda Gary Smith Hershberger. He was a proud grandfather to Sean Steckbeck and wife Brianna, Jennifer Kaplan and husband Shawn, Ryan Steckbeck, Lisa Nicholson and husband Brandon, Sarah Cruthers, Daniel Hershberger and wife Christee, Jared Hershberger and wife Daniella, and Jordan Goff and husband Kevin. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren Maayan Steckbeck, Asaph Steckbeck, Dvir Steckbeck, Abigail Steckbeck, Eliana Kaplan, Stella Kaplan, Gideon Hershberger, Caleb Hershberger, Jude Hershberger, Conner Cantrell, Braydon Nicholson, and Ezra Nicholson. Gary is also survived by one sister Carolyn Wade.
Gary will be remembered as a man of deep faith, unwavering commitment to family, and honorable service to his country. His strength, wisdom, and love will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
A funeral service will be held at Stump-Matics Funeral Home, 8539 Elk River Road North, Clendenin, WV, on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at 1:00 p.m., with Pastor Robert Paintiff officiating. Visitation will be 11 a.m.-1:00 p.m. prior to the service. Interment will follow at Smith Cemetery, Corton, WV, with full military honors. Fond memories and words of sympathy can be shared with the Smith family at www.stumpfuneralhomes.com
