Gary Gosta Smith, 79 of Orange Park, Florida, passed away on December 14, 2025. Gary was born on January 14, 1946 in Port Huron, Michigan to Gosta and Carmen Smith. Gary leaves behind Linda (Nalepa), his devoted wife of 61 years and their children Rebecca (Pat) Farinella of Jacksonville, and Brian (Amy) Smith of Fleming Island, Florida; adored grandsons, Michael (Jennifer) Farinella of Tallahassee, Florida, Matthew (Marion) Farinella of Auburn, Alabama, and Adrian Smith and Tucker Smith both of Fleming Island, Florida. Gary is also survived by three great-grandsons Anthony, Paul, and Samuel Farinella. Gary’s memory will be cherished by his sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, as well as many dearly loved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents as well as his brother Gerald Smith. 

High school sweethearts, Gary and Linda were married in 1964 and raised their two children in Port Huron, Michigan. Family time has always been one of Gary’s greatest joys. The family spent many hours singing along as Gary played guitar, harmonica, or banjo. They also enjoyed camping and boating trips throughout Michigan. As the years passed, Gary, along with Linda, found passion in traveling, as they visited islands and countries all over the world. The Island of Saba was a second home for Gary and Linda for several years. Later in life, they built another home in Waynesville, North Carolina. Gary’s children and grandchildren will forever cherish the time spent with their dad and grandfather, otherwise known as Poppy, in the mountains of North Carolina.

As an artist, Gary found joy and inspiration in the mountains in their North Carolina home. He often used this environment as the subject of his paintings. His art was a reflection of his faith and love of nature. He could often be found painting beautiful landscapes or his interpretations of messages found in the Bible. Gary’s artistry was not limited to a canvas. As a craftsman, Gary generated many beautiful pieces of furniture. Creating beautiful furniture and artwork, as a way of sharing his love for others, has been a cornerstone of Gary’s life. These pieces will forever be cherished by his family.

Throughout his life, Gary thrived as an entrepreneur. He founded several businesses, both in his hometown of Port Huron and in Orange Park. As a franchisee, he brought Little Caesar’s Pizza stores to Jacksonville and surrounding communities. Additionally, because of his deep love for his community, Gary was a member of the Orange Park Rotary, serving as president in 2007-2008. He considered this role an opportunity to impact the lives of others, and he took pride in his achievements within the organization.

Gary will be deeply missed by his church family at High Point Community Church. As a founding member of the church, Gary found great joy in attending Sunday school, Sunday services, and attending special events with his church family. His strong faith fueled his positive attitude, generosity, and compassion.

Gary courageously battled Multiple System Atrophy(MSA) for 5 years. He never lost his positive outlook on life, his sense of humor, or his strong faith in God. Gary was a warrior through many difficult days, but will truly be remembered for the shining light he maintained throughout his life and his battle with this rare disease.

Gary’s Celebration of Life will take place at 11:00 AM on Saturday January 10, 2026 at High Point Community Church in Orange Park, Florida. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made to Community Hospice of North Florida or High Point Community Church.