Gary Richard Smith

Gary R. Smith, 72, a devoted husband, beloved father and grandfather, and friend, passed away on June 19, 2026, in Middleboro, MA, in the home he loved, surrounded by his loving family and friends. Born on August 10, 1953, in Beverly, MA, to Charles and Catherine Smith, his life was dedicated to his family and friends.

Gary voluntarily joined the U.S. Marine Corps at the age of 17. From 1970 to 1974, he faithfully served his four years of active duty at Camp Lejeune, Okinawa, and 29 Palms in California. He then served his last two years in the reserves. He was a fiercely proud Marine who actively collected Marine Corps memorabilia. What he gave to the USMC was more than just his loyalty; he gave them his youth and health. He never once said he regretted his service, and that alone is a testament to his character.

After serving in the Marine Corps, Gary began a 25-year career in law enforcement. He first worked as a Metropolitan District Commission (MDC) Police Officer and later became a Massachusetts State Trooper. He loved his work so much that he also collected and sold police memorabilia. Gary retired in 2008 and fully enjoyed his retirement.

Gary loved to tend to his yard, his pond, and his pool. He found great joy in keeping these things looking their best. He was a very proud man who hated asking anyone for help, so he did it himself for as long as he was able. He loved his friends and his family and would do anything for them, after some grumbling, perhaps, but he still did it. His love will never be forgotten by those whose lives he touched.

He is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Brenda, and their two children, Dara and Shannon. He will be deeply missed by his two grandchildren, Trinity and Rory; his sister, Wendy Phinney, and her husband, Tom; as well as their daughter, Alison. Gary's memory will live on through his family, whose lives have been enriched simply because he was a part of them.

A funeral procession will form on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at 11:30 AM and depart before 11:45 AM from the O'Neill Funeral Home, 59 Peirce St. (corner of School Street), Middleboro, MA.

Military honors will be rendered, and a committal service will be held at 12:45 PM in the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne.

A Celebration of Life luncheon will follow, and details will be announced at the cemetery.

Due to floral restrictions at the cemetery, memorial contributions may be made to Sunrise Hospice, 25 Wareham St., Suite 2-26, Middleboro, MA 02346, or the Tunnel to Towers Foundation.

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