Gary Neal Smith

Gary Neal Smith, 85, formerly of Rosiclare, Illinois, passed away on Sunday, February 9, 2025, at his home in Paducah, KY.

He was born to Blanche (McClure) and Harley Smith in Rosiclare, IL on November 4, 1939. After graduating from Rosiclare High School in 1957, he joined the United States Marines where he served 1958-1961. Neal married the love of his life, Linda Fricker, on October 27, 1962. He began working in the gas & oil industry in 1964 working for DX, Sunoco and Ashland Oil before opening and operating Smith Oil in the late 80’s through to 1994 when he retired. He worked his second career from 1994 through 2023 as a real estate agent and residential home appraiser.

Neal served his community in the 1970’s as a member of the Rosiclare School district school board. He became a Mason in June 1969 and achieved the level of Master Mason and was awarded his 50-year pen. He was of the Baptist faith.

Neal is survived by his wife of 62 years, Linda (Fricker) Smith of Paducah, KY; son Steven (Carol) Smith of Paducah, KY; son Robert (Boo) Smith of Goreville, IL; grandchildren Briauna Shelby, Macey Schilling and Peyton Smith of Paducah, KY; Skyler Smith and Brayden Smith of Goreville, IL; great grandchildren Avery and River Shelby of Paducah, KY; Rico and Reese Smith of Wellsville, New York; Bentley Smith of Carmi, IL; and Dalis Schilling of Paducah, KY; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Sydney Smith, and numerous sisters and brothers-in laws; nieces and nephews.

Neal was an overly generous man who always found a way to help someone in need. He spent his years watching his boys and grandchildren’s sporting events. He was a voracious reader, loved a trip to the gambling boat, and visiting Gatlinburg, TN. He also enjoyed attending art festivals and listening to jazz music. 

A celebration of Neal’s life will be conducted on February 15, 2025, at Hardin County Funeral Services in Rosiclare, IL. Visitation will be conducted from 10 am to 12:30 pm.1 A Masonic ceremony will begin at 12:30 pm. A memorial service will be held at 1 pm with Fred Birch and Greg Love officiating. Interment will be at Empire Cemetery in Elizabethtown, IL.