Gerald "Gary" Smith

Gerald D. “Gary” Smith, 82, of Galesburg, Illinois, died at 4:05 a.m. Friday, July 25, 2025 at Allure of Lake Storey, Galesburg.

Gary was born December 1, 1942 in Galesburg, the son of Clyde R. and Evelyn J. (Clifford) Smith. After graduating high school Gary enlisted in the US Air Force serving 4 years and was honorably discharged on June 19, 1964. On February 5, 1966, Gary married Patty Jo Camren in Galesburg. They enjoyed 44 years of marriage until her death on November 3, 2010.

Gary is survived by two daughters, Lauri L. (Robert) Sparks of Jasonville, Indiana and Julie M. Ballard of Peoria, Illinois; one son, Jerry of Galesburg, three grandchildren, Nazareth (Joy) Lamay, Lacy Mason, and Joe Ballard; as well as two great grandchildren, Viola and Albert. Gary is also survived by one brother, Dale Smith of Galesburg; and one sister, Carol Vericella of Normal, Illinois. Along with his wife, Gary was preceded in death by his parents.

Gary worked for Burlington Northern Sante Fe Railroad for 23 years, retiring as an electronics technician. He was a faithful catholic and member of Corpus Christi Catholic Church as well as being a third-degree member of Father J.O. Hunt Knights of Columbus Council 556. An avid hunter, Gary enjoyed both shotgun and archery seasons for deer. He also enjoyed duck hunting. He golfed many rounds with his friends and was a fan of both the Green Bay Packers and St. Louis Cardinals.

Visitation will be 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Friday, August 1, 2025 at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. The rosary will be prayed at 11:30 a.m. Friday at Corpus Christi Catholic Church, Galesburg with the funeral mass following at 12:00 p.m. Father Jeffrey Stirniman will officiate. Burial with military rites will follow at East Linwood Cemetery, Galesburg. Memorials contributions may be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation or to the Lupus Foundation of America. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.