Gavin Tracy "The Gav" Smith

1967 - 2020

Gavin Tracy "The Gav" Smith

Gavin Tracy Smith, of Cleveland Heights, Ohio, passed away on December 29, 2020 at the age of 53. He was born in Toledo, Ohio, on June 24, 1967, to Linda C. Smith and Arthur H. Smith and grew up with three loving brothers in Maumee, Ohio.

Gavin graduated from Maumee Valley Country Day School in 1985 and went on to receive a bachelor's degree from Kent State University and a MBA from Case Western Reserve University.

Gavin met his wife, Catherine Wynne Carter, in 1983. They married October 21, 2000 and went on to have a son, Arthur Joseph Garcia "A.J." Smith on August 18, 2008. In addition to being a dedicated and loving father, Gavin loved his religious faith, working with youth, sports (Go Blue! Tribe! Cavs, Browns), the Grateful Dead, craft beer, good souls, and great stories – some even true!

Gavin is preceded in death by his stepfather, Arthur Hawthorne Criddle, December 15, 2020. He is survived by wife, Catherine Wynne Carter; and son A.J. Smith. He is also survived by his parents, Rev. Dr. Linda Smith-Criddle, Arthur Smith; stepmother, Connie Barron; the Smith brothers, Geoffrey (Joan), Drew (Barbara), and Dustin (Jen); and stepsister, Jennifer Mack. Additionally, he left behind numerous beloved aunts and uncles, nephews, and nieces, and cousins. All of his mourning family and friends appreciated his ability to love and be loved.

There will be a memorial service in Cleveland and virtually at a later date. If you are interested in donating to Funds for A.J. please contact:

ajsmithfund@gmail.com.