Obituary published on Legacy.com by Laughlin Service Funeral Home & Crematory - Huntsville on Mar. 10, 2026.
Wesley "Wes" Dewitt Smith, 65, of Huntsville, died on March 8, 2026, surrounded by his family.
Wes was preceded in death by his father, Gerald Raynard Smith Sr.; his mother, Melba Jean Smith; and his brother, Gerald Raynard Smith Jr.
He is survived by his loving wife, Gina Smith; his children, Lauren Stiles (Justin) and Daniel Smith (Emily); and his cherished grandchildren, Reagan, Benjamin, and Caroline Stiles, and Hunter Smith. He is also survived by his sister, Patti Smith Herring, along with numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews, whom he loved dearly.
Wes was born on February 23, 1961, at Carraway Hospital in
Birmingham, Alabama. He grew up in Gardendale, Alabama where he built lifelong friendships and graduated from Gardendale High School in 1979.
In 1984, he proudly joined the United States Navy and served honorably until 1988. During his military service, he worked in Internal Communications and was stationed aboard the submarines USS James K. Polk and the USS Ray. His service allowed him to travel extensively, including St. Croix, St. Thomas, Cuba, England, Scotland, Norway, Russia, and even the North Pole; experiences he carried with pride throughout his life.
After completing his naval service, Wes moved to Cullman, Alabama, and began working in Telecommunications for the City of Huntsville IT Department. In 1994, he married his wife Gina and moved to Huntsville with their daughter, Lauren. In 1996, they welcomed their son, Daniel.
Wes had a deep love for the outdoors. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, spending time at his family farm, working on his truck "Big Red", and cheering on Alabama football. He was very handy; If it was broken, he could fix it-and he was always willing to lend a hand. He also had a special love for animals and cared deeply for all his pets, especially his beloved dog, Mookie. Above all else, he treasured time spent with his children and grandchildren.
Wes never met a stranger and was blessed with many friends. He was a faithful attendee of Latham Church and remained actively involved in his community. Wes was fiercely protective and loyal to his family, a hard worker in every role he took on, and a determined individual who approached life with strength and perseverance. Even when faced with significant medical challenges, Wes never gave up.
Wesley Dewitt Smith will be remembered for his strong faith, unwavering dedication to his family, service to his country, strong character, and the love and kindness he shared with all who knew him. His legacy lives on through the many lives he touched.
A service will be held at Latham Church (109 Weatherly Road) on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at 4:00 p.m., with a visitation beginning at 3:00 p.m. Wes will be buried in Vinemont, Alabama next to his father.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Hospice Family Care of Huntsville (https://www.huntsvillehospitalfoundation.org/get-involved/give-now), or the Latham Church Children's Ministry, P.O. Box 4267
Huntsville, AL 35815 (https://lathamchurchhsv.org/grow/childrens-ministry).