DODGE CITY – Gary Smith, 78, passed away on Monday, October 24, 2022 at St. Catherine's of Dodge City.

He was born May 8, 1944 at Winston-Salem, North Carolina, the son of Cletus and Mary (Williard) Smith.  He was a Vietnam Veteran serving in the United States Air Force as a jet engine technician.

He worked as an insurance agent for Peirano Insurance Company in Salina and later worked for Gladden, Inc. and Apac Kansas as a foreman.  After retiring, Gary enjoyed working at Youthville in Dodge City helping disadvantaged children as well as a Para for USD 443.  He enjoyed his beloved pet horses and dogs.  He was an NRA member and enjoyed hunting.

Survivors include: a sister-in-law, Betty Smith, Winston-Salem; a step-son, Kenny Picking, Salina, Kansas; and 2 daughters, Cynthia Smith, North Carolina and Kat McFee, California.

He was preceded in death by his parents, 2 brothers, Bobby and Roy Smith and a step-son, Greg Picking.

Memorial service will be at 1:30 pm Wednesday, November 2, 2022 at the Kansas Veterans Cemetery, Ft. Dodge, with Jeff Hiers officiating and full military honors by the United States Air Force and American Legion District 8.  There will be no public viewing, cremation has taken place.  Friends may sign the register from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm Tuesday at Ziegler Funeral Chapel, Dodge City.

Memorials are suggested to the Ford County Humane Society in care of Ziegler Funeral Chapel, 1901 N. 14 ^th Ave., Dodge City, Kansas 67801.