Raymond "Gary" Smith Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Raymond “Gary” Smith, age 76, of Avery, IA, went to meet the Lord on June 14, 2022, at the Chariton Nursing and Rehabilitation facility in Chariton, IA. Gary was born on November 6, 1945, in Ottumwa, IA, to Raymond Benton and Ruby Pearl (Adair) Smith DeMoss. He grew up attending school in Eddyville and graduated from the Eddyville High School. Following school, Gary enlisted and served his country in the United States Army during Vietnam. Upon returning from the service, Gary went to work for the United States Postal Service in Ottumwa. He then worked for Chamberlains in Albia for many years before going to work as a CMA at Oakwood Nursing and Rehab in Albia until his retirement. Gary enjoyed being outdoors, gardening, camping, fishing, mushroom hunting, and bird watching. He raised chickens and roosters. In his younger years, he enjoyed riding motorcycles. He would often go along with his friend, Bill, in his semi. Gary had a great sense of humor, loved to make others laugh, and never knew a stranger. He was very generous and thoughtful, always willing to help anyone in need. His door was always open and he was a very loyal friend to many people. Gary’s family and friends were everything to him and he cherished the time spent with them. Gary is survived by 2 sisters, Lola Kirby of Eddyville and Connie Chichester of Avery; a brother, Terry Lee Smith of Eddyville; and a very special friend/brother, William “Bill” (Monna) Schachtner Chariton; special children, Steven Schachtner and Nicole (Nick) Reynolds; special grandkids, Gracelynn and Mayleigh Reynolds. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and good friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond Smith and Ruby Smith DeMoss; his stepfather, Lyman DeMoss; a sister, Carla Smith; 2 brothers, Benny and Denny Smith; a brother-in-law, Terry Kirby; and a sister-in-law, Linda Smith. Visitation will be held from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, June 20, 2022, at the Tharp Funeral Home in Albia, with Gary’s family present from 5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. to greet family and friends. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, June 21, 2022, at the Tharp Funeral Home in Albia, with Pastor Richard Grimes officiating. Burial with military honors provided by the American Legion of Albia, Melrose and Lovilia at Pleasant Corners Cemetery in Eddyville, IA. A memorial has been established to the Disabled Veterans of America. Condolences and memories to the family may be left online at www.tharpfh.com.

Raymond "Gary" Smith

November 6, 1945 - June 14, 2022