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Gary Smith Obituary

Gary Don Smith, 70, passed away on Thursday, October 7th in Montgomery, TX. Gary was born and raised in Waco, graduating from University High School in 1965. He served in the Marine Corp and the Marine Corp Reserves from 1966-1972. Gary took pride in his work and had a diverse and successful career. He started as a mechanic in Waco and went on to get a degree in Engineering. In addition to his career as an engineer, Gary received an M.B.A. from Pepperdine University, a Ph.D. from Walden University, and a J.D. from Texas Southern University. He was a practicing attorney at the end of his career. Gary had a life-long passion for building and driving cars, and could play just about anything on the piano and accordion. A servant of God, Gary loved the Lord and was ready to be with his Father in Heaven. He is predeceased by his father, William Lloyd Smith, and survived by his loving mother, JoNell Pair Smith, his two daughters, Jennifer Carol Smith and Stephanie Jill Smith, his canine companion, Ginger, aunts and uncles, Bobbi Blankenstein, Nelda and Charles Barnes, Patsy Hughes, Betty and Joe Vawters, as well as many cousins. A funeral service will be held in Waco at Rosemound Cemetery on Thursday, October 12th at 2:00 p.m. Flowers may be sent to Connally/Compton funeral home in Waco.

Published by The Courier of Montgomery County from Oct. 11 to Oct. 24, 2017.
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Jennifer and Stephanie
I am sorry for your loss. I know you do not know me, but my family and your family has had connection 65 or 70 years. Lloyd and JoNell were best friends with my aunt and uncle- Charles and Glena Smith. Your Dad and I were in the "Cradle roll" at church in Waco. I remember your dad when I was a child. I am amazed at the varied accomplishments he achieved in this life. It is obvious that he loved the Lord. I know that he will greet both of you again in the future. There are seven of us on FB that were children in that small church in Waco so long ago. Paul Lane posted your dad's obituary on FB. One last story about your family and God's perfect timing. This happened about 8 years ago. I stopped at a gas station on highway 105. As I was leaving an old man was leaning against his truck. He looked whipped and had a flat tire. I pulled over and asked if I could help change the tire. He sat down in front seat and I started changing his tire. We were making small talk and he asked what kind of work I did. He said I know a guy who does that kind of work- his name is David Hairel - I looked up and said I am David Hairel- we laughed and I asked his name - Lloyd Smith. I am sure that it had been at least 50 years since we actually had seen each other in Waco. God sent me to help a "perfect stranger" who had been cherished friends to my family. I am grateful for you and your family today! May the Lord bring you comfort and peace!

David Hairel

October 14, 2017

Dear Jennifer and Stephanie, I just noticed as reading this that I am writing at 2:15 Thursday, October 12, so I know exactly where you are and what you are doing.I am also praying for you as you have your dad's funeral. When this day is over I pray that you feel a sense of relief that it is over and you can start anew tomorrow having this behind you. I love the photo you chose for the obituary. It is so him and how I will remember him since it has been so many years since I have actually seen him. We had so many good times as friends and fellow Christians at church and at your house and out doing things together. Those were some special years and special memories. God bless you both and know you are loved. Marilyn Hardister

October 12, 2017

May God bless and comfort you dear sister and Jennifer and Stephanie. I know all of you have great faith and just know that we are here for you.

Betty and Joe

Betty and Joe Vawters

October 11, 2017

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Funeral services provided by:

Connally-Compton Funeral Directors

4400 West Waco Drive, Waco, TX 76710

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