Marvin Kurt Smith, known to all who loved him as Kurt, passed away on May 27, 2026, in Gainesville, Texas, after a courageous battle with Pulmonary Fibrosis. He was 69 years old. Born on April 8, 1957, in Arlington, Virginia, Kurt grew up to become a man of deep curiosity, generous spirit, and unwavering faith.

Kurt graduated from the University of North Texas in Denton, Texas with a master’s degree in education, and went on to dedicate his career to public school education. He was proud to share his passion for science as a middle school and high school science teacher, and his dedication did not go unnoticed. Kurt was honored with the Science Teacher of the Year award for the State of Texas. Over the course of his career, he served students at Bay City ISD, Lewisville ISD, and Denton ISD, from which he retired.

Kurt's passions were many and heartfelt. He loved the outdoors, spending time camping, boating, fishing, hiking, and observing nature. His home was surrounded by bird feeders, a quiet testament to his appreciation for the natural world. He adored his pets, especially his beloved current dog Katy and past pets Henry, Maggie and Leo he loved them all so much. An engineer at heart, Kurt was a natural problem solver who loved tackling DIY projects and creating solutions to fix just about anything. A lifelong fan of NASCAR, NHRA funny cars, and top fuel dragsters, Kurt also followed the Nebraska Cornhuskers football team faithfully and recently enjoyed cheering on the Huskers women's volleyball team. He loved classic rock music, particularly the great guitar-driven bands of the 1960s and 1970s. He treasured traditions, holidays, history, and a good documentary. He valued his friendships deeply and kept people close throughout his life.

Kurt was preceded in death by his father, Russell Keith Smith, and his mother, Margie Marie Smith (Reed). He is survived by his brothers, Martin Keith Smith, James Kevin Smith (nieces Sandra-Marie and Lisa Veronika) and his sister Kathleen Marie (wife Francesca Catalano, nephew David). Kurt married Gloria Owens (Ortez) in 1997. Although divorced in 2016 they remained friends.

Above all else, Kurt's strong faith in his Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, gave him strength and comfort throughout his life and illness. He was a member of the Denton Bible Church.

Kurt was a good man, a dutiful son, a wonderful brother, and a loyal friend. He will be greatly missed. May God bless him.

In accordance with Kurt's wishes, graveside service will be coordinated through Mulkey-Bowles-Montgomery Funeral Home, Denton TX and will take place on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Roselawn Memorial Park in Denton, Texas.