Obituary of Gary Robert Donald Smith
It is with heavy hearts that the family of Gary Smith announced the passing of a wonderful partner, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. Gary passed away on January 18, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on March 10, 1947, in Sussex NB, he was the son of the late Frank Creighton Smith and Violet (Leach) Smith.
Gary will be sadly missed and is survived by his wife Jackie Smith, daughter Lori Smith-Saunders (Chris), son G. Jason Smith (Carrie), grandchildren Paige Smith-Saunders, Walt Smith-Saunders and great-grandchild Clara Sutherland. Aside from his parents, he was predeceased by his 1st wife Judith Ann (Trecartin) Smith, sisters Joan Leach, Margaret Smith, Deloris Cryderman and brother Russell Smith.
Gary grew up in Sussex and started his working career in Lawson Motors, then Bricklin Car Plant, before moving to N.B. Tel and Bell Alliant where he worked for 27 years.
Gary was a hard-working man who with only a grade 7 education was able to advance in every job he did, learning from his colleagues and bringing his best. He wanted to provide opportunities for his family that he never had and both he and Judy provided support and shelter for so many friends and family when in need. They spent many summers camping at Mohawk on Grand Lake playing marbles, horseshoes and cribbage. In the winter months, Gary was an avid bowler playing in the N.B. Tel League.
In 2000 Gary’s wife Judith passed away from breast cancer which left a huge hole in his heart. Then in 2002 he met Jackie who brought back the light in his eyes that even a 2003 bladder cancer diagnosis couldn’t dim. In 2004 he retired from Bell Alliant, married Jackie and started his 10-year pet project of making modifications to his 2000 Seabring. He spent many summers travelling all over the Maritimes and Maine participating in car shows and won several awards and trophies!
Gary also had a love of photography taking thousands of photos of Saint John landmarks, birds, fall foliage, animals, car shows, you name it. As he put it “if it didn’t move, I shot it” (with a camera of course). Gary also had a deep compassion for those who were disadvantaged. He often donated to local charities including his annual “Subway receipt cookie drive” and posted his many photos on Facebook so that people he knew who were stuck in their homes and couldn’t get out much could still see the beauty outside.
In keeping with Gary’s wishes no formal funeral services will be observed. For those who wish remembrances to the Canadian Cancer Society or Romero House would be appreciated by the family.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John (506-634-7424).
