Tracy Smith
March 11, 1962 - April 19, 2023
Tracy was born on March 11, 1962 in Salt Lake City, Utah. He passed away after a tragic accident that happened on April 6, 2023.
Tracy was first and foremost a storyteller. Photography was also his passion and he tried to tell a story with every image. His favorite subjects were nature, animals and garden photos. He often posted pictures of what he called “Guardians of the Garden” showcasing the drama and stories of the outdoors. He was also very involved with the National Geographic Photographers Association among others.
He started his 40+ year career in the Air Force and worked on fighter jets as an engineer. His dream was to become a pilot. After his service, he worked in broadcast television as an engineer, master control operator, editor, sports producer, promotion producer, long format producer and finally as a photojournalist and reporter with a knack for capturing the decisive moment in his truly unique style. He also owned his own production company, Black Hawk Entertainment for many years.
Tracy was very talented at connecting to people and made many new friends on his travels. He had a photographic memory and would recognize old friends and acquaintances by name. His co-workers often joked that he would know someone anywhere they went.
He wasn’t tied to one religion, but he was tied to his faith. He believed, trusted in and was loyal to God. He did bible study, taught Sunday School and spoke many times at the local ward. Teaching was one of his many gifts. He really enjoyed teaching the young children at Sunday School.
He also mentored and taught many of the young journalists who worked with him. I received many messages about how much they appreciated his talent, knowledge and caring. He had an incredible work ethic and was willing to share his experiences with them and anyone else who needed guidance on a professional level.
He also believed in “the infinite dignity and worth” of everyone. He was so giving… and generous to a fault, donating his time, energy and enthusiasm to everything he touched.
He is survived by his wife, Shauna, two daughters, Shaianne and Devin, four grandchildren, his mother, Dana, his adoptive father, Scott and his brother, Shane.
Please join us for a unique celebration of his life. Saturday, April 29th from 5:00 to 7:00pm Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East Salt Lake City, Utah. Refreshments and hors d'oeuvres will be served. There will be an open mic at 6:30. Guests are encouraged to use the parking and entrance on the north side of the building.
In Loving Memory
You have my deepest sympathy and words can not express how sad to hear of our loss. Tracy was a special soul and will live in our hearts forever. His smile would brighten everyones day. All are blessed to have known such a special man and he touched so many lives. He will be missed but never forgotten. My heart ❤️ goes out to you Shauna and family and my prayers are with you. Thank you Tracy for the time you shared with us. You are an angel watching over us all.
Tracy was my Sunday School teacher when I was 17 years old. He was amazing teacher and opened my eyes to seeing things from a new perspective. He helped me strengthen my personal relationship with God and also taught me to seek understanding from others whose perespectives and experiences differed from my own. He truly did see the worth of each person and the good that everyone had to contribute. I hope to continue to apply those truths and skills for the rest of my life. Sending prayers for his loved ones, but happy he is somewhere he can find joy and continue helping others better themselves.
Vance and Sharron, I'm so terribly sorry for the loss of your son. What an amazing story he leaves. I know the love you feel for all your children, family and friends and can't imagine how this loss must be affecting you all. Much love and many prayers sent to you and your family. RIP Tracy.
I am so sorry for your loss Shawna and family. I pray that you will have peace at this very difficult time. I always enjoyed Tracy's talks in Church. He seemed like a very humble man. He will be missed. Sincerely, Angela Crook
Every day for years, Tracy and I would go back and forth over assignments, stories, and just overall work and support for the stress of the job. He lifted us all up and showed us the way. The hole he left is ginormous and I miss him terribly. Shauna, I am so so so sorry you and the rest of your family are having to find a way to navigate this journey with Tracy on the other side. Please let me know if I can help in any way.
Tracy made me feel extremely welcome during my time working with him at ABC4. He was an outstanding person and I am going to miss my talks with him about work and life. My prayers go out to his family during this time.
We are sending our prayers. Tracy's brain was full of knowledge, his heart overflowed with love, and his spirit was filled with passion. He had such a pride for his family, and took every moment he could to speak about their good natures. May God bless your healing hearts. If you need anything, we are here.
I didn't expect you to leave so soon dad. my heart is broken I'm going to miss you and your silly dad jokes the last one about me actually getting 2ft of snow to walk in my generation. please watch over shauna me n devin and your grandkids. I love you so much
Tracy has made such an impression on my life at a time when life was very challenging for me. Tracy and his brother Shane were nice enough to extend me a job assisting them with their production company. During that time, Tracy helped me to get back on my feet and offered the support both financially, and as a friend. You will always be remembered by me, as having a huge heart!
Tracy is one of the best people I've ever known. He never had a bad thing to say about anyone & always made it his goal to uplift everyone at work. He is the definition of a true friend. Tracy was one of my first friends at ABC4 News. We always asked to be paired up because we worked so well together. He made it easy to open up and he knew exactly what to do to calm me down. I still can't believe he is gone, he is already so missed. The world needs more Tracy's in it.
Hugs, love and comfort blessings for all who had the fortune of knowing and experiencing Tracy. He was one of the kindest, genuine and most sincere souls you could ever encounter. So grateful for the time we shared. RIP Tracy.
I was devastated to recently hear of Tracy's passing. I worked with him on many occasions and he was always so caring and careful about telling the story right and with heart. The last two times, however, were extra special. My client is building a house to benefit St. Jude's Children's Hospital. Tracy spent hours with us at two separate events, tears filling his eyes as he interviewed person after person. He hugged us all at end, thanking us for giving him the opportunity to be there, when we were clearly the ones indebted to him. That's just who he was...kind, generous, filled with charity, and with a very big heart. Tracy, you will be sorely missed.
We are devistated by the lost of our friend, Tracy. Thoughts and prayers to Shauna and Tracy's family.
We are sorry for your loss Seth, Dana, Shane & all of your family. We didnt personally know Tracy but it sounds like he was a wonderful guy & it would have been an honor to have met him. We will keep you all in our thoughts & prayers.
Tracy has been the kindest neighbor and friend to us for many years. He came and met us as we moved in and never stopped showing his love. He was always giving sincere compliments to us and our children individually. He has a gift for making anyone feel special. We will always remember him smiling and waving at us while walking his dogs. He was a celebrity among the kids waiting for the school bus every morning with his cheery hello and telling us we were "super moms" for just standing there in our pajamas and coats. He taught us what it meant to truly watch out for each other as a neighborhood and community. We will miss you Tracy!
In Loving Memory
