Thomas "Jeff" J. Smith

Born November 17, 1952 in Memphis, Tennessee to Thomas Jefferson Smith Sr. and Ruby Alice (Willouby) Smith, he married Marina Gilchrist on November 15, 1985 in Pekin. She survives.

Also surviving are five daughters, Amanda Smith, Kimberly Kirtley, Jennifer Gilchrist, all of Pekin, Cher Schnieder and Ilona Fryer, both of Mackinaw; three sons, Gordon (Christina) Gilchrist of Portland, Oregon, Jeff Smith and Couri Smith, both of Canton/Peoria; eighteen grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren; five brothers, Joey (Christine) Smith of North Pekin, Johnny Smith of Bellevue, Danny (Sharon) Williams of Creve Coeur, Paul Smith of East Peoria and Robert Williams of California; and one sister, Anne Williams of Creve Coeur.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Hazel Ponce.

Jeff worked many years as an Illinois crane welder in Peoria and for TP&W as a track maintainer in East Peoria. Jeff was also certified by the Caterpillar Training Institute in quality systems enhancement, statistical application, quality and productivity and blueprint reading. He also worked for Illinois Machine and Tool Works Inc. as a Manual Machinist for 24 years.

He enjoyed fishing, hunting, camping, and boating. He also enjoyed riding his motorcycle with his wife, family and friends. Jeff would also spend time landscaping, gardening, and working on remodeling projects in their home. He loved music, dancing and spending time with his wife and family.

A gathering celebrating Jeff will be held at a later date. Cremation has been accorded by Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin.

To express condolences online, visit www.preston-hanley.com