Gary Z Smith

Gary Zorn (“G.Z.”) Smith, 80, died Thursday, June 23rd, 2022 at his home in Brooksville. A lifelong Floridian, Gary was born on February 17, 1942, in St. Petersburg to the late James and Billie Smith. He is preceded in death by his brother, Stephen C. Smith. Gary was a graduate of Northeast Highschool and earned his bachelor’s degree from St. Leo University. He went on to earn a master’s degree from Troy State, and graduated from the FBI National Academy in Quantico, VA. After serving his country as an Army Airborne Ranger, he attended the inaugural Law Enforcement Academy at Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office. Over the course of his 30-year law enforcement career, he held every rank from deputy to major and served in various capacities within Pinellas, Citrus, and Hernando County Sheriff’s Offices. After retiring from law enforcement, G.Z. worked overseas as a training contractor for the U.S. Department of State.
G.Z. was truly one-of-a-kind. For those fortunate enough to hear the unbelievable (yet true) stories that occurred throughout his eight decades, they’d most likely agree that his life was extraordinary. He was an accomplished pilot, world traveler, avid outdoorsman, skilled artist, gifted storyteller, and the most loyal friend you could ever ask for. He had a soft spot in his heart for animals that were down on their luck, and loved his dogs. Because of GZ’s professed faith in Christ, we are joyful that we will see him again and know that heaven just got a bit more interesting.
Left to cherish his memory are his family: Brad Smith, Elisa Smith, Addie Smith, Nate Smith, Alona Smith, and Ron Bayless, as well as several other cousins. G.Z. also leaves behind his brothers and sisters in law enforcement, treasured friends, neighbors, and a few spoiled chickens.
A tribute to G.Z.’s life will be held Friday, July 8, 2022 at 11am at Faith Evangelical Presbyterian Church in Brooksville, FL. A reception will immediately follow at Saxon Manor in Brooksville. If you feel so inclined, in lieu of flowers, please make a donation in G.Z.’s honor to the Florida Sheriff’s Youth Ranch or charity of your choice.
Cremation with care arrangements provided by the Chas. E. Davis Funeral Home with Crematory, Inverness, Florida.