Gary Leon Smith, beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 3, 2026 at the age of 79.
Gary was born to Frank Leon Smith and Dorothy May Stagg on November 3, 1946. They preceded him in death, along with his brother, Craig Leon Smith, and his uncle, Bob Stagg.
Gary graduated from Spanish Fork High School with the class of 1965. He attended Brigham Young University for several years before beginning a career at Tooele Army Depot, where he worked until his retirement.
On June 4, 1970, Gary married his sweetheart, Lana Schwartz, in the Manti Utah Temple. Together they shared 56 wonderful years of marriage and made their home in Spanish Fork, Utah. Their happiest day was welcoming their only child, their daughter, Stephanie into their family. Their life together was filled with family, faith, adventure, and countless memories.
Gary will be deeply missed by his sweetheart and wife of 56 years, Lana Schwartz Smith; his daughter, Stephanie Smith; and his beloved grandchildren, Gunner Lloyd, Taylor Lloyd, and Alexis Lloyd. He is also survived by his great-granddaughter Colby.
Gary was a man of determination and remarkable personal discipline. He was an avid runner and had a deep desire to live a healthy life. Through running and dieting, he transformed his life, losing an incredible amount of weight—from 420 pounds to 170. Running became an important part of his daily life, and he was a devoted member of a Saturday morning running group. He also made it a habit to run nine miles every evening. He ultimately ran in 28 marathons, with 23 being consecutive St. George marathons. He also ran the New York(twice), San Francisco (twice), and San Diego marathons as well as the Grand Canyon Rim to Rim and King’s Peak. His commitment to health and fitness was an inspiration to those who knew him.
Gary loved the outdoors and had a true spirit of adventure. This was truly where he was the happiest! He was an avid camper, hunter, and fisherman, and some of his favorite memories were made on camping trips and outdoor adventures with his family. He especially enjoyed bringing along his nieces and nephews, with his beloved daughter Stephanie, creating memories that they would carry with them for years to come.
Gary was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served an LDS mission in the Northwest States Mission and devoted many years of service to the Church. He served in multiple bishoprics and also served as a member of his stake high council. His faith and willingness to serve others were an important part of his life.
Gary leaves behind a legacy of perseverance, faith, service, adventure, and love of family. His determination to become healthier, his deep love of being outdoors, and his devotion to those he loved will continue to inspire all who knew him. His family will forever cherish the memories of camping trips, adventures, conversations, laughter, and the many ways Gary made life more meaningful for those around him.
Funeral services will be held Friday, August 21, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at the LDS 8th Ward building, located at 1006 E. 180 S., Spanish Fork, Utah. A viewing will be held prior to the services from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. The internment will be held at the Spanish Fork Cemetery, immediately after funeral services.
In lieu of flowers (due to allergies), the family kindly asks that donations be made to the Spanish Fork Library in Gary’s name.
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