Gaylord Monroe Smith

He was born in Boulder, IL September 27, 1935 the son of Gaylord and Lillie Ann (Sharp) Smith. G.M. attended a one room school for his elementary education, and then graduated from Sandoval High School. He continued his education earning his undergraduate degree from Wabash College in Crawfordsville, IN and a Master’s degree from University of Illinois.

G.M. married Rose Marie Hoefer August 8, 1965 in Doniphan, MO and she survives. He is also survived by two sons; Jason (Michelle) Smith of Scottsdale, AZ, Jeremy Smith of Springfield, and four grandchildren. Also surviving are his five sisters: Marilou (Donnell) Jenkins of Galena, IL, Patsy (Gary) Wienken of Mechanicsburg, PA, Nancy (Kevin) Frisby of Bridgeton, MO, Velda (Richard) Freehill of Urbana, IL, and Sherry Smith of Arlington, TX, as well as many nieces, nephews and other relatives.

His parents and brother, Donald L. Smith preceded him in death.

G.M. followed in the footsteps of his father as an educator and grain farmer. He was a professor of Life Sciences, mainly Microbiology at Kaskaskia College in Centralia, IL retiring in 1994. Nature and environmental issues were especially important to him. He served as a docent at the Illinois State Museum after retirement and found great joy in helping educate visitors to the museum. He loved music, a good word search and was an avid reader.

He will leave a void in the lives of those who knew him and benefited from his knowledge, wisdom and friendship.

In honor of his wishes, cremation rites will be accorded by the Bisch Crematory.

Private family services will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, those who wish may direct memorial contributions to the American Cancer Society, the Sierra Club, or the Alzheimer’s Association.

Please visit the online “Life Remembered Story” at www.bischfuneralhomewest.com where tributes and condolences may be left for the family.

Arrangements are under the care of Bisch Funeral Home West, Springfield, IL 217-544-5424.