Gary Arthur Smiley, age 74, of Lincolnwood, Illinois, passed away at his home on Saturday, November 29, 2025.

Gary was born in Chicago, Illinois, to Morris Y. Smiley and Anne C. Smiley. The youngest of four brothers, Gary was the last of his generation, predeceased by Lawrence, Alan, and Robert. The Smiley brothers embodied brotherly love. Not that they loved all the time - rather they fought, argued, and complained about each other (maybe more often than not) - but ultimately found solace, respect, and love in one another.

Gary left behind many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, first cousins, first cousins once removed, second cousins, and whatever comes next. Regardless of the genealogical distance, he loved and thought about his family daily. He never missed an opportunity to celebrate their accomplishments and to proudly explain exactly how each one was related to him.

Gary leaves behind many friends. He spoke fondly of his time at Lincoln Junior High and at Niles West High School, where so many of those friendships began. Over the years, Gary unsurprisingly made even more friendships. The regular stomping grounds may have changed, but his willingness to enjoy life with those closest to him didn’t. He cherished time with his friends, whether it was a Sunday get together or a Tuesday night dinner.

After high school, Gary earned his B.A. from the University of Illinois at Chicago, and his J.D. from John Marshall Law School. Gary was admitted to practice law in Illinois in 1978. He was dedicated and zealous in advocating for his clients. He once told a legal organization that “The key to my success is patience.” Gary was likely the only person who ever described himself as patient.

Gary leaves behind two sons, Austin (Jennifer) and Brett (Ashley), whom he loved beyond measure. Nothing in this world was more important to him than his sons. That is, until his grandchildren were born. A.J. and Parker (Austin and Jennifer), and Sutton (Brett and Ashley) were the apple of his eye. Good luck getting through a conversation without him talking about his grandkids or showing off a picture (or ten). They were his greatest joy.

Celebration of Life, Friday, December 12, 2025, from 4 to 7 p.m. with Remembrances at 5:30 p.m., at HABEN Funeral Home & Crematory, 8057 Niles Center Rd., Skokie. Following the ceremony, guests are invited to continue the celebration at The Village Inn, 8050 Lincoln Ave., Skokie (across the street from the funeral home).

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the BBAA and the Jr. Bison baseball program. Gary loved watching his grandkids grow, learn, and play the game he himself loved and excelled at. All donations are tax-deductible and go toward supporting local youth baseball – honoring Gary’s love of the game and the grandchildren he adored watching play.

Checks may be mailed to:

BBAA

P. O. Box 873

Bensenville, IL 60106

In the memo line, please write: GAS

Or through PayPal at:

@JrBisonBaseball

Funeral info: 847.673.6111 or habenfuneral.com to leave a condolence message.

The key to my success is “patience”. – Gary A. Smiley 

Gary is the founder and was admitted to practice law in 1978.  He maintained a general law practice representing clients in Chicago, IL and the surrounding areas.  The firm focuses on Creditors’ Rights and Collections.

Gary received his J.D. from John Marshall Law School and his B.A. from the University of Illinois. He is licensed to practice in Illinois. Gary was very proud when his son Austin M. Smiley, became an attorney and joined him at the law firm.

Gary was recognized as one of the Top Attorneys of North America, a New York based publication, distinguishes and profiles leading attorneys who have reached a recognizable degree of success and leadership in their field. The directory is valued for promoting awareness of the accomplishments within the North American legal community.