Gerald Lee Smith

Gerald (Jerry) Lee Smith transitioned to eternity on January 4, where he is now joyfully reunited with his heavenly Father and Savior, Jesus Christ. He left behind his loving wife, Linda Elaine Smith as well as a legacy of love and devotion to his faith.

Jerry was born in Burlington, Iowa to Doris Elaine Smith and Otis Sherwood Smith on September 27, 1945. He graduated from the New Mexico Military Institute in Roswell, New Mexico. He graduated with a Bachelor of Political Science degree as well as a Masters of Business Administration from Texas Tech University.

He served in the US Army in Vietnam, and retired from the US Army Reserves as a Colonel, completing a full military career. He had a dual career with Northwestern Mutual Financial Services as a Chartered Life Financial Consultant.

Jerry was very active in Rotary in Stockton, California where he served as President of the Stockton Rotary Club. Following his retirement from Financial Planning he also served as the Secretary of the Stockton Rotary Club.

Jerry left behind a sister-in-law, Judy Bynum of Big Spring, Texas as well as a brother-in-law, Kenneth Burton of Lubbock, Texas. He leaves behind nephews, Darrell Burton, Cecil Bynum, and nieces Wanda Kay York, Cindy Sturdavant and Lorrie McCampbell. He shared a love of his grandparents’ farm with cousins Cherie Cook, Nancy Olson and Holly Rasmussen. He will be sorely missed by his two cats Max and Streak.

Jerry was a loving husband to Linda, as well as a loving friend and mentor to many people. A graveside service will be held at the National Memorial Cemetery of Phoenix at a date to be determined. Darrell Burton will officiate.

Jerry loved animals, and would be thrilled with a donation to a local pet shelter of your choice.