Gerald (Jerry) E. Smith

Gerald (Jerry) E. Smith, age 80, died in his home on Wednesday, January 25, 2023, surrounded by his family.  Jerry and his wife, Lois, have lived in the Monroe, Michigan area since 1983 and celebrated thirty-nine years of marriage last year.  Jerry and Lois have four children- Dena (Gordon), Crystal (Scotty), Brooks (Stephanie), and Brandi (John).  They have 13 grandchildren, along with 12 great grandchildren and one great, great grandchild.  Jerry is proceeded in death by his parents, his daughter, Dena, and his grandson, John. 

Mr. Smith was born in Chippewa Falls, WI. After high school, he joined the Navy and served his country for 6 years.  Jerry was a talented and avid guitarist and vocalist.  He enjoyed playing in bands and with friends for many years.  He had paying (and not paying) gigs, but truly enjoyed gathering with family and friends, creating music from multiple genres.  He loved music and held a deep affection for rhythm and blues, and a guitar collection that equaled his love of this art. 

In addition to playing music, Jerry had a deep love for classic car restoration.  This addiction was ignited by his 16th birthday gift, and his first car, a 1929 Model A Sedan.  The number of hours put into each refurbishment can never be calculated but his ultimate result was always nothing but spectacular.

In 2003, he retired from North Star Steel (Monroe, MI) after more than 40 years of service with stops along the way in Virginia, Illinois, South Carolina, and Iowa. Jerry’s level of common sense, unequaled work ethic, and “old school” mentality gave way four decades of numerous successes in the steel industry.  He possessed a drive for diversity, inclusion, and teamwork long before they became social demands.  He had a way of inspiring and motivating people as a truly effective leader and has had an abundance of recognitions for his accomplishments, improvements, and movements into the technological advancements of the steel industry.  Moving forward and producing quality product through quality workmanship was the only goal.

Friends may gather for a memorial gathering on Saturday January 28, 2023, from 12PM until the services at 1PM. Cremation has occurred.   

In lieu of flowers- donations can be made to the Wounded Warrior Project or St. Jude Children’s Hospital.