Obituary of Gary W. Smiddy

In Loving Memory of Gary W. Smiddy

On the morning of May 16,2023, Gary Wayne Smiddy, age76, went to be with his Lord Jesus Christ at his home in Mesa, Arizona.

Born December 24th, 1946 to Zora Evelyn Smiddy and Lewis Claude Smiddy in Pontiac, Michigan, Gary is survived by his wife of 55 years, Jean Smiddy (Howell) their children Nathan Smiddy (wifeTina Okken Smiddy), and Hanna Smiddy, grandson Caleb Smiddy, brother Ron Smiddy (wife Leslie S), and sister Pamela Smiddy Collinsworth (husband David). He was preceded in death by both of his parents and his son Michael Kelly Smiddy and sister Linda  Smiddy Tibbs.

Gary graduated from Greenfield High School in 1965, going on to receive his Bachelor’s degree in 1981 after serving in the U.S. Air Force for 5 years. Upon completion of his undergraduate studies, Gary went on to continue his studies at Biola University, The U.S. Center for World Missions, and Fuller Seminary, in preparation for a life time of Ministry. Gary and his wife Jean spent nearly 30 years in East Africa as missionaries. Gary’s passion in life was seeing people come to a saving relationship with Jesus Christ; He often said to his congregation at Crossroads Fellowship Church; “Jesus loves you and so do I”.

Gary had a gift for fostering and growing community. His passion for sports from a 4 sport athlete in high school, included playing wheelchair basketball in the 70’s following a car accident, to coaching college basketball. This continued in East Africa where he coached basketball at his children’s primary school in Mombasa, Kenya. Through the golf community Gary made many great lifelong friends that did life together. No matter where in the world he found himself, Gary found joy and peace in the pastime of fishing.

Before his passing, Gary’s very strong desire in life was to see his last project in Kenya completed, Crossroads Fellowship church in Kisumu, Kenya. In lieu of flowers, we ask that you give to the completion of the Kisumu building project fund.

Please send Memorial Contributions to:
Crossroads Fellowship Ministries
PO Box 491 Greenfield, IN 46140