Garry M Smith

Garry Martin Smith, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and brother, passed away on March 18, 2025. He was sixty-seven. Born in Daytona and raised in Ormond Beach, Florida, Garry was a faithful lifelong Floridian who touched the hearts of many throughout his life. For over 25 years, Garry and his devoted wife have called Crawfordville home. He passed away on his own time, in his own way, surrounded by loved ones.

Garry spent much of his career working in nature and natural services. He was a tree surgeon, golf course greens curator and manager, and for the last 20 years was in horticulture and irrigation at Tallahassee Community College (now Tallahassee State College).

He had a deep appreciation for the outdoors. He loved plants and flowers, especially native Florida wildflowers, and loved all aspects of water, both salt water and fresh. Having grown up fishing in the Atlantic, over time Garry became renowned for knowing the rivers of Florida through his kayaking adventures. His intimate knowledge of the Wacissa, Wakulla, and Aucilla Rivers (his favorite) and surrounding natural landscapes became legendary among those who shared in his passion for the great outdoors. His Annual New Year’s Day paddles were among his most treasured traditions.

Garry's respect and love for plants and wildlife mirrored his magnanimous love of life. He worked hard but played harder, living with an adventurous spirit that made him unforgettable. Whether kayaking along a river, riding his unicycle in the neighborhood, going for a drive on a nonexistent path in the woods, or competing in a spirited game of cornhole with friends and family, Garry lived life on his own terms, always with a devilishly infectious grin, a sarcastic wit, yet always with a willingness to give a hand to those in need.

He is survived by his wife, Jamie Smith, and his children: Michael Skeer of Sedona, AZ; Holly Smith of Hawaii; Harry and Lisa Smith of Tallahassee, FL, and Scott Lashus of Tallahassee, FL. He was also grandfather to six grandchildren: Evan, Naomi, Kameron, Gavin, Abby, and Rylee. He also leaves behind five siblings: Cal Smith (Colleen) of Pine, CO; Carl Smith of Wellborn, FL; Theresa Barnett and Liz Hanzi (Jon Czerwinski) of Atlanta, GA; and David Smith of Tallahassee, FL and many nieces and nephews. He will be dearly missed by family members and friends alike.

A celebration of Garry’s life will be held this Spring where loved ones will gather to share memories and honor the legacy of a man who left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers or donations, to honor Garry, plant wildflowers that are local to your area to help make your community a more beautiful place.