Official Obituary of
Michael Leroy Smith
July 19, 1958 ~ October 17, 2025 (age 67) 67 Years Old
Michael Smith Obituary
Michael Leroy Smith, born on July 19, 1958, in Galesburg, Illinois, peacefully passed away on October 17, 2025, in Garland, Texas. A man of distinctive character and unwavering dedication, Michael lived 67 fulfilling years, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew him.
A longtime resident of Garland, Texas, He spent his formative years in Peoria, Illinois.
Driven by a strong sense of duty and passion for service, he enlisted in the United States Army, serving as an air traffic controller both during his military service and transitioning the role in civilian life—a role that honed his strong attention to detail and unwavering discipline.
Following later, Michael transitioned his career to IT as software engineer,proficient in various software languages. His last employer was Raytheon from which he retired from.
At home, Michael was a devoted husband to his beloved wife of 43 years , Lynn, who survives him. Together, they raised three sons: Alexander Michael of Garland,Texas, Kevin William ( Angela)of Garland,Texas , and Oliver Elisha McGregor of Parma,Ohio (Elise), all of whom were sources of immense pride and joy for him. He was a cherished grandfather to 3 grandchildren, Joshua Michael, Ruth and Issac whose laughter and smiles brightened his days.
Family meant everything to Michael, and his bonds extended deeply with his mother, Ellen Smith and his siblings. Michael is lovingly remembered by his brothers, John, Mark, and Chris and sister, Beth. The closeness they shared was a testament to his warm and caring nature.
Michael before his illness was involved in his community and church, St. Michael the ArcAngel Catholic Church in Garland,Texas where he was a past Fourth Degree Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus. The family enjoyed in their spare time playing games together,especially role playing games like Pathfinder. Michael in addition, enjoyed much of his downtime with beloved extended family and best friend Karen Lenz. Avid Chicago Bears fans, Michael and Lynn enjoy watching all games together - dressed in their Bears jerseys.
Michael will be profoundly missed by all whose lives he touched. His legacy of love, service, and kindness remains a beacon of inspiration for his family and friends.
Donations can be made in memorandum of Michael to: ASAN @ www.autisticadvocacy.org
May his soul rest in peace, knowing he lived a life rich in love, service, and dedication.
Visitation will be held at Pilar Funeral Home in Garland,Texas Sunday, October 26 from 4-6 pm. Burial with Military Honors will be held at DFW National Cemetery Monday, October 27 at 11 pm.
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A longtime resident of Garland, Texas, He spent his formative years in Peoria, Illinois.
Driven by a strong sense of duty and passion for service, he enlisted in the United States Army, serving as an air traffic controller both during his military service and transitioning the role in civilian life—a role that honed his strong attention to detail and unwavering discipline.
Following later, Michael transitioned his career to IT as software engineer,proficient in various software languages. His last employer was Raytheon from which he retired from.
At home, Michael was a devoted husband to his beloved wife of 43 years , Lynn, who survives him. Together, they raised three sons: Alexander Michael of Garland,Texas, Kevin William ( Angela)of Garland,Texas , and Oliver Elisha McGregor of Parma,Ohio (Elise), all of whom were sources of immense pride and joy for him. He was a cherished grandfather to 3 grandchildren, Joshua Michael, Ruth and Issac whose laughter and smiles brightened his days.
Family meant everything to Michael, and his bonds extended deeply with his mother, Ellen Smith and his siblings. Michael is lovingly remembered by his brothers, John, Mark, and Chris and sister, Beth. The closeness they shared was a testament to his warm and caring nature.
Michael before his illness was involved in his community and church, St. Michael the ArcAngel Catholic Church in Garland,Texas where he was a past Fourth Degree Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus. The family enjoyed in their spare time playing games together,especially role playing games like Pathfinder. Michael in addition, enjoyed much of his downtime with beloved extended family and best friend Karen Lenz. Avid Chicago Bears fans, Michael and Lynn enjoy watching all games together - dressed in their Bears jerseys.
Michael will be profoundly missed by all whose lives he touched. His legacy of love, service, and kindness remains a beacon of inspiration for his family and friends.
Donations can be made in memorandum of Michael to: ASAN @ www.autisticadvocacy.org
May his soul rest in peace, knowing he lived a life rich in love, service, and dedication.
Visitation will be held at Pilar Funeral Home in Garland,Texas Sunday, October 26 from 4-6 pm. Burial with Military Honors will be held at DFW National Cemetery Monday, October 27 at 11 pm.
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