Gary R. Smith, 85, passed away on Wednesday, April 17, 2024 at home. He was the loving husband of Christine Smith.

Mr. Smith was born on April 5, 1939 in Meadville, PA to the late Irving and Emma Smith.

Mr. Smith had worked as an owner/operator truck driver for 30 years. He served in the U.S. Air Force, Det 4, Special Communications Center from 1957 to 1970. With the rank of Staff Sergeant, he was awarded the Vietnam Service Medal with four bronze service stars, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry cross with Palm. He was also a VFW Past State Commander and served in many positions at the Post and District levels achieving All-American status. He was a life member of the VFW Red Lion Post 1446 and VFW National Home and a member of the Red Lion American Legion Post 543 and Military Order of the Cottie. He was also a member of the NRA, Moose, and Vietnam Veterans of America.

Mr. Smith is survived by his sons, Mark Brite, Randy Smith, Sam Smith, and Gary Smith, Jr.; step-daughters, Karen Behler and Kele Behler; and his sister, Phyllis Meier. He is also survived by many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. Mr. Smith was preceded in death by a daughter, Kelly Waters.

A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. on Monday, April 22, 2024 at the Etzweiler Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 1111 E. Market St., York, with the Rev. Peter R. Hook officiating. Immediately following the service full military detail will be presented by the York County Veterans Honor Guard. A viewing will be held on Monday from 1 to 3 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will be held in Indiantown Gap National Cemetery on Wednesday, April 24, 2024 at 10 a.m. Those attending the burial are asked to meet at the cemetery by 9:45 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Pennsylvania Wounded Warriors Inc., 1117 Country Club Road, Camp Hill, PA 17011.