Gay Lynn Smith

“Beauty Is Not In The Face, Beauty Is A Light In The Heart” 

Gay Lynn Smith, 82, of Abilene, Texas, passed away on April 6, 2024.   She was born on April 21, 1941 in Houston, Texas.  Gay Lynn has a gentle, generous, and beautiful soul.   She was quick to identify and help those in need, she found beauty in everything and would find the positive in most situations.   She loved nature, painting, listening to music and being creative.   Gay Lynn never met a stranger and was always willing to help anyone.   

Gay Lynn was chosen as Miss El Paso in 1958 and used her creative talent to pursue a career in advertising.   She started her own agency and operated in Abilene and Odessa for 30 years.  

She is survived by her husband, Gary, sister Diane Smith and husband Steve, and her sons Marshall (Trey) Newcomb III, James Hewitt Newcomb and wife Michele, Matthew Wyatt Newcomb and wife Edee.   Grandchildren include Justin, Wyatt, Cole, Weston, and Grace Newcomb.   Gay Lynn was preceded in death by her father George W. Hewitt and mother Prome Alice McNally.   

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Rescue the Animals, Meal on Wheels, Ben Richey Boys Ranch, The Salvation Army or simply someone in need.  

The family would like to give special thanks to Dr. Tommie Farrell, Hendrick Hospice and the team at Wisteria Place.  

The Hamil Family Funeral Home in Abilene is assisting with private arrangements.