Gerald Smith
June 20, 1939 – Sept. 25, 2026
Gerald “Jerry” Ray Smith, 87, of Sweet Home, passed away Sept. 26, 2026.
He was born June 20, 1939, to Chester and Emma White Smith in McPherson, Ark., one of eight children in a family of four boys and four girls.
At age 17, Jerry and a friend saw a sign encouraging young men to enlist in the military to complete their service before turning 21. They immediately went to the nearest recruiting station and joined the U.S. Navy. After boot camp, Jerry was assigned to the USS Pine Island, serving on the same ship as his brother, and worked in special forces operating boats. Jerry often said joining the Navy was the best decision he ever made.
Following his Navy service, Jerry worked for more than 30 years for Timber Valley Dairy. Beginning as a Sweet Home milk salesman, he moved on to milk delivery and eventually served as a supervisor in upper management. He loved his work and built his initial small route into the largest in the company. He was especially fond of the children on his route, frequently treating them to chocolate milk.
Jerry was also deeply dedicated to community service in Lebanon, volunteering with the fire department as a firefighter, ambulance driver and EMT assistance. He was pursuing his EMT certification when Timber Valley offered him an advanced management position he could not pass up.
After retiring and following the passing of his beloved wife Winnie, Jerry spent a couple of years babysitting four of his great-grandchildren. Later, he volunteered as a delivery driver for Meals on Wheels.
In 2008 Jerry married Phyllis Osborn Smith. Together, they enjoyed square dancing and playing golf, activities Jerry loved until declining sight and hearing made them no longer possible.
Jerry lived by the belief that we should honor God and care for our planet by helping others and protecting the environment for future generations. He put this into practice by using battery-powered tools and equipment, often lending them to neighbors in hopes of encouraging them to adopt eco-friendly alternatives.
Anyone who knew Jerry was familiar with his greatest weakness: his love of sweets. He could never get enough. He always volunteered to bring desserts to potlucks (hoping to eat the leftovers). He thoroughly enjoyed the cookies his daughters brought him and he ate his wife’s baked goods as fast as she could make them.
Jerry is survived by his wife of 18 years, Phyllis Osburn-Smith; his daughters, Diane, Cindi and Suzi; his son Jeff; and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; all seven of his siblings; his first wife Winnie; and his son Robin.
Per Jerry’s request, there will be no funeral service. Instead, the family will hold a private celebration of life. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to your local food bank.