Gary Banks Smith

Gary Banks Smith, age 86, passed away peacefully on May 25, 2026. He was born on February 14, 1940, in Canton, Missouri, to Hugh Fraizer Smith and Alice Vesta Smith.

A longtime member of Joy Lutheran Church for 25 years, Gary lived his life with compassion, generosity, and a servant’s heart. He never met a stranger and was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need.

Gary’s wife often joked that he was “born a car,” a fitting description for a man whose life revolved around automobiles and the open road. He spent most of his career working in the automotive industry with both Ford and Chevrolet, serving in many roles including service advisor and service parts manager. His passion for vehicles extended far beyond work — he was an avid NASCAR fan and motorcycle enthusiast who enjoyed traveling across the country. Among his many adventures were motorcycle trips to the Grand Canyon, Mexico, and Canada.

Gary was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. He will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, his sense of humor, his dedication to family, and the countless friendships he formed throughout his life. His presence brought comfort, conversation, and joy to those around him, and his memory will be cherished always.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Joann Smith. Their love story began on a blind date arranged by friends aboard a boat on the Mississippi River during Memorial Day weekend, and just six weeks later, they were married — beginning a lifetime filled with love, laughter, and adventure together.

Gary is also survived by his sons, Jeffery Smith and Stephen Romberg (Laura); daughters, Susan Barg (Steve) and Lauren Emme; grandchildren, Hannah Barg, Forrest Robert Good, Megan Sanders (Matt), AJ Romberg (Kenndal), and Sara Emme-Miller (Eric); great-grandchildren, Avery and Rhett Sanders and Abby, Elijah, and Everett Miller; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by sisters, Suzanne Smith and Kae Parker; and grandson, Aaron Michael Barg.

A memorial service will be held on June 20, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Joy Lutheran Church.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made in memory of Gary Smith to Mobile Meals of Spartanburg, Alzheimer's Association, or American Heart Association.