Gary Smith

Tupelo, Mississippi - Gary Lynn Smith, 89, passed away on Sunday, July 26, 2026 at Sanctuary Hospice House, after an extended illness. He formerly lived at Creekside Manor in Saltillo. An Itawamba County native, he was born May 10, 1937 to E.Q. and Burvil Smith. He attended Itawamba schools and married the love of his life, Carolyn Wheeler Smith on July 23, 1955. They were married for 58 years. Together they owned and operated Smith and Brumley Athletics in Southaven, Mississippi for over 30 years.

He was an avid sports fan and enjoyed reading his bible and John Grisham books. He loved his family and cherished time spent with them. He was a faithful member of West Main Church of Christ, Tupelo, Mississippi.

Survivors include his two children, Vickie Dye (Jimmy) of Guntown and Tim Smith (Cortni) of Navarre, Florida; five grandchildren, Jeremy Green (Keely) of Guntown, Mississippi, Jason Smith of Pelahatchie, Mississippi, Amanda Parham of Hamilton, Mississippi, Jamie Smith (Bridgett) of Nettleton, Mississippi, and Allison Cripps (Anthony) of Vicksburg, Mississippi; nine great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; one sister, Betty Mitchell; one brother and sister-in-law, Doug and Molly Smith of Fulton, Mississippi; and a host of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Carolyn and second wife Mary Master Smith; his great-grandson, Tyler Green; his parents; and his brother, Kenneth W. Smith.

Visitation will be Wednesday, July 29, 2026 1 p.m. until time of service at Pegues, Tupelo.

Funeral service for Gary will be 2 p.m. at Jefferson Street Chapel of Pegues with Minister Doug Greenway officiating. Burial will follow at Tupelo Memorial Park.

Pallbearers include Gary’s grandsons and great grandsons, Jason Smith, Cooper Smith, Jeremy Green, Jamie Smith, Evan Smith, Max Smith and Brenan Parham.

Honorary Pallbearer will be his long time caregiver, Tammy Tucker.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made Sanctuary Hospice House P.O. Box 2117 Tupelo, MS 38803 Or Sheps Army C/O Tim & Cindy Wood 3374 Venson Dr. Bartlett, TN 38134.

Expressions of sympathy and fond memories may be made at www.peguesfuneralhome.com.