Gary Duane Smith

Gary Duane Smith of Granbury, Texas departed this world on June 5, 2023, at Baylor Hospital from complications following a heart attack.  He was 68 years old.

Gary was born in Brownwood, Texas where he spent his childhood playing a game that would be his biggest passion– football.  He graduated from Brownwood High School where he played football, won a State Championship, and was awarded All-State Linebacker honors.  Gary continued his education at Tarleton State University graduating with bachelor’s degrees in English and Physical Education. His goal was to teach English and coach high school football; however, along the way he developed a new passion for the grocery business. Gary found great success in pursuing a grocery career. He was one of ten in the country awarded a grant to attend the University of Southern California for the Food Industry Management program.

This career path led him to join the Walmart management family, a job he loved and served for over 30 years. During that time, he managed multiple stores where he experienced the joy of training many associates.  He loved the daily opportunities to interact with a wide array of people.

Most important to Gary was his family.  As a young man, he fell in love and married Karen Denise Carmack. Their 46-year marriage brought them two children, Eric and Tarin; and four grandchildren, Baylee, Lucas, Evelyn, and Oliver.  Gary was an amazing father and grandfather. Whether it was travel, holiday parties, or sports events, Gary was always happiest with his family, and he never missed an opportunity to spend time with them.

Gary is survived by his wife, Karen; his son Eric and wife, Ashlee; his daughter Tarin and husband, Vince; his grandchildren Baylee, Lucas, Evelyn, and Oliver; his sister Darla and husband, Mike; his brother Bruce and wife, Sherry. He also leaves behind a large, beloved extended family and friends.  Gary is preceded in death by his parents Dave and Melba Smith.

A visitation will be held at Wiley Funeral Home in Granbury Thursday, June 8, 6:00- 8:00pm. The funeral service will be held at Stonewater Church in Granbury Friday, June 9, 11:00am.

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