Lt. William Gary Smith Sr., born on June 15, 1962, in Columbus, Ohio, passed away on December 22, 2024, at his home in Pickerington, Ohio. He dedicated 34 years of his life to the Columbus Division of Fire, serving as an EMS supervisor and Director of Recruitment and Background. He also spent many years as a flight medic with MedFlight out of Lodi.

Gary was known for his love of animals, particularly his Beagles, Bounti and Mocha, and cherished the moments spent playing with them. He had a passion for traveling and enjoyed indulging in his favorite foods, including hamburgers, steak, candy, and pizza (especially Tommy's). In his downtime, Gary loved watching shows like The First 48 and Judge Judy, often reacting passionately to the latter.

A devoted sports fan, he was a loyal supporter of the Ohio State Buckeyes, the Dallas Cowboys, and the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Gary is preceded in death by his mother, Lois Myrick (step-father, Tim), and his father, William Smith (step-mother, Bonnie) and brother, Kwane Smith. He is survived by his loving wife Julie. his sisters, Debbie Harris (Charles), Dana Aekins (Ronald), and Tina Commodore (Craig), Kenyan Smith (Catrice), Timolyn Smith and his children, LaRue Smith, David Smith, William Smith, Brandon Smith, Brianna Smith, Brittany Smith, and Mya Perkins as well as his aunts, uncles, cousins, grandchildren, nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his good friends John Ellis and Malik Riley.

Gary's unique sense of humor, his love for those close to him and his service to his community will be deeply missed by all who truly loved him.