Gary Thomas Smith

Gary Thomas Smith, 61, passed away peacefully at his home on March 31, 2026, surrounded by his family.

He was born on April 2, 1964, in Hardinsburg, Kentucky, to the late Richard F. Smith and Frances Pauline (Wethington) Thorn. Gary was also preceded in death by his stepmother, Leta (Pate) Smith, and his stepfather, Arthur Thorn.

Gary was a 1982 graduate of Tell City High School. He was united in marriage to Rita Fortwendel on November 29, 1996, and together they shared more than 30 years of love and companionship.

Gary worked as a printer for the Perry County News until its closing. He was a dedicated member of St. Pius Catholic Church, who enjoyed following the Chicago Cubs and had a passion for classic cars, especially Mopar.

Gary had a creative mind and was a phenomenal artist, known for his detailed pencil drawings and airbrush work. His skill and originality were evident in everything he created and will be remembered by those who knew him.

Surviving are his wife, Rita; children, Jamie (Gerrit) Armstrong of Mt. Carmel, IL, Molly (Anthony) Melvin of Henderson, KY, Ashley (Tim) Luecke of New Boston, Candace Voyles of Henderson, KY, Garett (Ashley) Smith of Panama City, Panama, and Nicholas (Sydney) Smith of Tell City; siblings, Pat (Jeff) Luther of Corydon, Paula (Paul) Howell of Gatchel, Rick (Dolly) Smith of Tell City, and Danielle (Chris) Corley of Cannelton; step-siblings, Doug Dunn, Mike Dunn, and Leta (Bill) Dunn of Troy; and eight grandchildren, Allyson and Maleah Armstrong, Gabrielle, Emery, and Maggee Melvin, and Brendon, Evan, and Zander Luecke.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, April 4, 2026, at Zoercher-Gillick Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery in Troy, Indiana. Visitation will be held on Friday, April 3, 2026, from 3:00–7:00 pm., with a Rosary to be prayed at 7:00 pm., and again on Saturday from 8:00 am. until the time of service.

Because Gary was called home during this holy season, a Mass will be offered at St. Pius Catholic Church on Tuesday, April 7, at 9:00a.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Pius Catholic Church.

Condolences may be left at zoercher-gillickfuneralhome.com.

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