Gary Wayne Smith

Gary Wayne Smith, 63, passed away Thursday, September 18, 2025 at his home in Bushong, surrounded by those he loved dearly.

He was born July 10, 1962, in Strong City, Kansas, the son of Willis G. and Dorothy Elaine Hudson Smith. Gary grew up in Garnett and Emporia, later making his home in Bushong where he lived out the remainder of his life.

Gary was united in marriage to Lori Root in 1978 until 1989. They had three children, Jason Smith of Emporia, Jennifer Smith of Blue Springs, MO, and Justin Smith of Fredonia.

Gary later married Dianne Bedner and gained two step-daughters, Machelle Helburg and Kristen Jackson in 1997. Gary and Dianne were about to celebrate their 28th anniversary on September 20, 2025.

Gary was an avid hunter and one heck of a fisherman. He previously served as mayor of Bushong for seven years. He dedicated his last 10 years of his time & labor to the North Lyon County Veterans Memorial. Gary had spent years working for several amazing men: Black top, Steve Kolmer, Lehnherr Concrete, Brady Park, Jared Nelson, and Evan Wilson. Gary worked for himself with his sons, Jason & Justin, pouring concrete. He was a very dedicated and hard working man til’ the end.

Gary has sixteen grandchildren & nine great-grandchildren.

He is survived by four brothers & one sister; Jim & Susan Swift and Jerry & Sheryl Swift of Emporia, KS, Randy and Kristi Smith of Lebo, Warren & Beth Olson of Neal, KS, and Jennie and Dallas Bowin, of Colorado.

Gary was preceded in death by his mother, Dorothy Olson; fathers, Herb Olson and Willis Smith; brother Travis Carman; daughter, Kristen Jackson; one granddaughter and one great-grandson.

Cremation is taking place and there will be a Celebration of Life held Saturday, October 4, 2025 at 12:00pm at the Bushong City Park. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the North Lyon County Veterans Memorial sent c/o Jones VanArsdale Funeral Home, PO Box 43, Lebo, KS 66856.