The following obituary was written by the family of Mr. Smith:
Garry Donald Smith, age 69, passed away on September 16, 2026. Garry was a simple man who enjoyed the simple things in life. He loved hunting, fishing, Alabama football, and spending time with his family. Of all the titles he held in life, one of his most treasured was “Papaw.” He loved his grandchildren dearly, and they held a very special place in his heart. Garry is survived by his son, Garry “Shannon” Smith and his wife, Renea; his daughter, Shanna Riddle and her boyfriend, Chad Rawls; his former wife and longtime friend, Linda Smith; and his beloved grandchildren, Zaelin Echols, River Smith, Reese Smith, Haize Riddle, and Brantley Riddle. He was preceded in death by his mother, Thelma Thornton; his father, Denver Smith; his stepfather, James Thornton; his grandparents, Della and Sam Stallings; and his son-in-law, Matthew Riddle. Sam held an especially important place in Garry’s life, as he helped raise him and was lovingly known to Garry as “Dad.” Garry will be remembered for his simple way of life, his love of the outdoors, Saturdays spent cheering on the Crimson Tide, and most of all, his love for his family. To Zaelin, River, Reese, Haize, and Brantley, he will always be their Papaw, and the memories they made with him will be carried with them for years to come. In accordance with Garry’s wishes, there will be no traditional funeral service or visitation. His family will honor his life with a graveside service, on Saturday, September 19, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at White Oak Baptist Church in Logan. His family will miss him deeply and will forever cherish the memories they shared with him.
