Gary Dean Smith

Gary Dean Smith was born January 26th, 1943, in Shawnee, OK, to Rex and Fannie Mae Smith. Gary grew up with two brothers Billy and Danny. He graduated from Shawnee High School and after a brief stint with the Rock Island Railroad, he attended OSU Tech in Okmulgee. After graduating from OSU, he started Smith Plumbing which he operated for over 40 years.

In 1981, he married Shirley Arnold in Coweta, OK, where they made their home for the better part of 43 years. Shirley was the love of his life, and he considered her a blessing to him and to their family.

During their time together, they raised 5 children and enjoyed 10 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Once grandkids came along, he became known as “Poppy” for the rest of his life to all who knew and loved him. Many celebrations and family get-togethers brought him and Shirley much happiness as their family grew; these times have also provided endless opportunities for the laughs and memories his family will continue to share and cherish.

His other “family” at Coweta Assembly brought him great joy and purpose as well. He loved greeting guests and members at the door before most of the weekly services for close to 20 years. His church family embraced him and knew they could count on him to welcome them in and to always have candy on hand should anyone find themselves in need.

Gary is survived by his wife, Shirley, and their children: Kody Smith and wife, Mystie, of Tecumseh; Kerry Smith and wife, Jo Ann, of Tecumseh; Mike Adney and wife, Cathy, of Porter; Lisa Shorb and husband, Randy, of Broken Arrow; and Rob Adney and wife, Dana, of Porter; 10 grandchildren: Dylan Smith; Dalton Smith; Kaylee Smith; Garrett Smith; Taylor Adney and wife, Tiffany; Kelsey Adney; Lindsey Greer and husband, Justin; Nicholas Sandella and wife, Cyrena; Dakota Adney; and Drew Adney and wife, Cantlin; and 10 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Danny Smith.

Gary passed peacefully into the arms of Jesus on August 28, 2024, with his loving and faithful wife by his side.

A celebration of life for Gary Dean Smith will be held at Coweta First Assembly of God on Thursday, September 5, 2024, at 1 pm.

Family and friends may share memories online @ www.brownfamilycares.com. The family of Gary Dean Smith entrusted his care and cremation to Brown Funeral Home & Cremations, 210 S. Broadway, Coweta, OK 74429, 918-486-5515.