BENTON – Gary (Joe) Lyn Smith, 77, of Benton, passed away at 3:35 a.m. on Sunday, August 17, 2025, at Helia Healthcare in Benton, IL.

He was born on March 7, 1948, to William “Bill” and Birdie (Roberts) Smith in Benton, IL.

Joe was a proud coal miner at Orient #3 in Waltonville. He had a deep love for the outdoors and spent every summer at Rend Lake, where he enjoyed camping and taking friends and family out on his beloved houseboat. It was this passion that earned him the nickname “Houseboat”— a name he was fondly known by on the CB radio to loved ones near and far.

Joe was a laid-back soul who was always true to himself, and his greatest joy was the time he shared with family and friends. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Joe is survived by his loving family:

• Son: Brandon Smith and partner Nichole Colvin

• Three daughters: Chastity Smith, Lily Smith, and Geraldine Smith

• Six grandchildren: Jersey Smith, Halle Smith, Charli Smith, Zina Smith and partner Clay Richardson, Skye Carlisle, and several others

• Two great-grandchildren: Hadley Richardson and Atticus Richardson

• Four sisters: Jeannette (Smith) Tasky, Nita (Smith) Adams, Geneva Smith, and Judith (Smith) Ward and husband, Michael

• Two brothers: Gene Smith and Jim Smith and wife, Virginia

He was preceded in death by his parents, William “Bill” and Birdie Smith; brothers, Ernest Smith, Bob Smith, Dale Smith, and John Smith; sisters, Sharon (Smith) Heinrich, Eunice (Smith) Conner, Mary Lou (Smith) Hobbie, Dorothy (Smith) Cockrum, Edna (Smith) Fotheringham; and infant sisters Belinda Sue Smith and Baby Girl Smith (stillborn).

Arrangements have been entrusted to Pate Funeral Home and Crematory, 301 South Main Street, Benton, IL.

Per Joe’s wishes, cremation will take place. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Online condolences can be given at www.patefh.com.