Negley-

Gary L. Smith, 70, a lifelong resident of Negley, passed away May 29, 2026. at the Hospice House in Poland.

Gary was born on October 18, 1955, in Salem, son of Cecil and Martha Blythe Smith.

He worked for over 20 years as a heavy machine mechanic for Koppel Steel as well as other local steel mills prior to his retirement. He enjoyed being outdoors, riding his motorcycle, camping and boating and he also liked to relax watching classic movies.

He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Deborah (Knight) Smith; a daughter, Erika (Jesse Travis) Smith of East Palestine; mother, Martha Smith; two brothers, Danny (Janet) Smith and Randy (Kimmy) Smith; a sister, Kathy (Steve) Komula; a sister-in-law, Karen Hancox as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Cecil Smith and his father and mother-in-law, Donald and Shirley Knight.

The family will receive friends Thursday June 4, 2026, from 5:00-7:00 PM at the Linsley-Royal Funeral Home in East Palestine. No other services will be observed.

www.linsley-royal.com