Gary Padgett Smithson

It is with great sadness, and a heavy heart, we announce the passing of our beloved father, Gary Padgett Smithson, on August 18th 2020, at the age of 69 years old, in Chuluota Florida. A man of great faith, our father was an angel sent from heaven who illuminated the hearts of everyone he met with his bright and shining light. Survived by his two children Ashley and Todd, his grandchildren Cooper and Olivia and his cherished dogs Molly and Charlie. Gary was born in Wilmington North Carolina on november 8th 1950, the only son of Hugh McDonald Smithson and Ruby Grace Padgett. After graduating high school, Gary became a student at UNCW, studying marine biology before joining the Wrightsville Beach Police Department in 1973. During his time with the department Gary had many advancements in his career becoming a Sergeant, Juvenile Detention Officer and Volunteer FireFighter before opening the Wrightsville Beach Detectives Division in 1979. After 10 years of service in The Police Department, Gary transitioned his career in 1983 and began his new chapter investigating explosions and arson for INS Investigations. As an investigator his work took him around the world, eventually relocating him to Florida after receiving a promotion. Orlando would become Gary’s forever home. He set down roots in Chuluota and developed great bonds and friendships in his surrounding community. A member of St. Stephen Catholic Community Church, Gary made it his purpose to help friends in need, and devoted his spare time volunteering or caring for his children and grandchildren. In 1996 Gary became the victim of a major car accident, but with the support from his family, friends, church and community, Gary survived and went on to become a speaker for Florida Safety Council, along with Advocates against Drunk Driving and participating in new Beginnings, a St. Stephen Catholic Community program created for separated, divorced and widowed. Gary’s heart was as big as the Ocean. He lived a 1000 years in the 69 calendar years God gave him. He was afraid of nothing, and though his accident gave him an obstacle, he never slowed down. He had an acute awareness of the importance of a life lived, and he left a lasting impression on everyone he met. To his family he was a rare combination of simplicity and abundance. He lived for his long winded speeches at his annual BBQ where he showcased his famous secret sauce, a delicious sauce he apparently kept no recipe record of (believe me we’ve looked). His greatest passion was his land. He created a paradise for his family to gather, tinker in his shop, jam out to Pink Floyd, or watch CasaBlanca with his dogs on his lap. We will miss him greatly, but hold the memories we shared and the stories he told. Rest easy Papa. We will love you forever. You were a great man!

Gary Padgett Smithson

November 8, 1950 - August 18, 2020