Mr. Gabriel W. "Gabe" Smith

Gabriel William "Gabe" Smith, 30, of Kansas City, Missouri, passed away peacefully on August 1, 2025, at the Kansas City Hospice House.

Born on October 1, 1994, at Truman Medical Center, Gabriel was a vibrant soul whose creativity, humor, and warmth left a lasting impression on everyone who had the joy of knowing him. Raised in Kansas City, he attended Holiday Montessori for elementary school, University Academy for middle school, and both Hogan Preparatory Academy in Kansas City, Missouri, and Washington High School in Kansas City, Kansas.

In addition to his artistic gifts, Gabriel was a talented athlete who found joy and discipline in sports. He loved basketball, track, and football, competing with heart, skill, and a fierce spirit that earned the respect of teammates and coaches alike. Whether on the court, the field, or the track, Gabriel brought the same passion and energy that defined every other part of his life.

Gabriel was also an important part of the family business and played an integral role in its growth and success. His dedication, ideas, and hard work left a lasting impact that will continue to shape the business for years to come.

From an early age, Gabriel displayed a deep love for the arts. He discovered his passion at the Boys and Girls Club, where he was first introduced to dance and visual expression. He lit up local talent shows with his dazzling moves-a gift inspired by his mother and their cherished weekly family dance parties with his sister, Jacqueline.

As he grew, Gabriel poured his heart into visual art, becoming a skilled painter, illustrator, and tattoo artist. Much of his work reflected the beauty and honesty of everyday life-capturing intimate moments with family and friends through his illustrations. His most recent body of work-a powerful collection of 44 original pieces-represented a deeply personal vision and prophecy he hoped to bring to life. Along his journey, Gabriel formed meaningful connections with countless individuals, often creating deeply personal pieces that told their unique stories.

Gabriel will be lovingly remembered by his mother and stepfather, Kimberly and Charles Bush; his father, Ben Smith; his siblings, Jacqueline Weems (Kyle), Jordan Smith, and Charleigh Bush; his stepbrothers, Vincent Bush and Charles Bush; and his beloved nephews, Kyrie and Christian Weems. He is also survived by a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and a large and devoted group of friends who loved him deeply and whose lives were forever changed by his presence.

His creative spirit, infectious laughter, and kind heart will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A celebration of Gabe's life will be held in Kansas City, where family and friends will gather to honor the beauty he brought into the world through his art, his energy, and his love.

Funeral Services will be held on Sunday, August 17, 2025, 3:00pm at Watkins Heritage Chapel. Private Disposition. Visitation from 2:00pm-3:00pm at the chapel. Services conducted by Watkins Heritage Chapel. Condolences may be shared on our website.