Christian author Gary Smalley died Sunday (March 6) at the age of 75. Smalley was an accomplished writer and speaker, and worked closely with Focus on the Family as one of the organization’s most trusted experts on marriage and relationships.
Smalley’s Facebook page read, “It is with heavy hearts that we announce Dr Gary Smalley, at age 75, graduated to heaven last night. The family gathered and surrounded him, his loving wife Norma kissed his forehead gently and sang to him. This beautiful transition came to an end as these words were spoke over him ‘The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you’ (Numbers 6:24-25).”
Smalley’s professional accomplishments were numerous, but included writing over 60 bestselling books on marriage and relationships, according to Christianity Today. The Evangelical Christian Publishers Association presented three of his books, Two Sides of Love, The Blessing, and The Treasure Tree, with Gold Medallion awards.
Focus on the Family president Jim Daly wrote, “Gary was also a trusted counselor in whom people confided their deepest longings, hurts, hopes and dreams. The practical advice and coaching he gave helped countless husbands and wives stave off divorce. How many children grew up with both their mom and their dad because God used Gary to repair and restore their marriages? More than you would imagine.”
A celebration of life will take place Saturday, March 19 at 3:00 p.m. at College of the Ozarks Chapel in Point Lookout, Missouri. It will be open to the public for all who wish to honor Smalley’s life and legacy.
Publication date: March 9, 2016
