Gary Leyes

Gary J Leyes, 33, of West Palm Beach FL, formerly of Terre Haute IN, passed away Sunday January 2, 2022, at Good Samaritan Medical Center in Palm Beach FL. Gary was born in Bloomington IL, July 5, 1988, to Richard B Leyes  and Katharine L Griffith and raised by his parents Richard D and  Katharine L Smith in Terre Haute IN. Gary attended School in Terre Haute IN, Marshall IL, before receiving his GED. He was preceded in death by his father Richard Leyes, maternal grandparents, John Veltri, Mary Veltri, his paternal grandparents, Mike Smith, Cathy Smith, Dorthy Leyes.

Gary was always one of a kind and adventurous.  At age 14, he became enthralled with all things Asian.  He was determined to raise money to go meet his pen pal in Taipei. He was successful in that venture and paid his own way to Taipei, spending one month abroad. Just as in life when Gary set his mind to it he did it 110 % . Everyone who knew Gary, would describe him as Flamboyant, unique and genuine. Gary will be remembered for his Contagious smile, charismatic personality and his altruistic nature. Though life had offered him many trials and tribulations, Gary, had finally found his paradise in FL. There he was surrounded by people who truly loved him and allowed him to be his fabulous self. Despite being taken to soon, Gary had found true happiness and was living his best life this last 15 months.

Gary is survived by his parents Richard & Katharine Smith, sister Brandy (Joshua) Santus, brother Cole (Brooke) Griffith, nieces Kiersten, Shayln, Charlie & Graclyn, nephews, Alex, Brock, Brady and Gahrett, 2 great nephews, Brenner& Braxton, special Aunt Vickie Robinson, special friend Bob Irwin, and loved by many other aunts uncles and cousins.

Services for Gary will be on Wednesday, January 12, 2022 at 6:00 p.m. at Holmes Memorial Chapel.  Visitation will be from 2:30 p.m. until the time of service.