In Loving Memory of Gerald "Jerry" Smith 1941 - 2025

Gerald “Jerry” Smith passed on to glory on Sunday, August 3rd, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones at his home in Elkhorn, Wisconsin. Born September 28th, 1941, he passed away peacefully at the age of 83.

He is survived by his two children Jeff & Michelle Smith, daughter-in-law Betty (Broecker) Smith, one sibling, Joyce Smith, a nephew, Tim Smith, and six grandchildren, Tyler & Abi Hummel, Kristin, Natalie & Kyle Smith and Nicole (Smith) Klassy.

Jerry was a devoted Christian, a loving husband and father, an honorable Marine, a teacher, a passionate fisherman, a skilled gardener, a handyman and a Proud American.

At 17 he joined the Marine Corp and served his country proudly. After honorable discharge, he became the 1st person in his family to earn a college degree which led him to the field of teaching. Jerry became a passionate educator who taught elementary education in Aurora, Illinois for four decades.

He married Ruthi Hyllberg and moved into their family home in Montgomery, IL where they raised their two children and become dedicated members and volunteers at Central Bible Church in Aurora.

Jerry eventually retired from teaching and dedicated the remainder of his energy to fishing, spoiling his grandkids and caring for his wife, who would pass in November 2019. He made his final move to Wisconsin in 2022 to be near his family.

Jerry will be remembered as a giving, compassionate, Godly, and funny man who never hesitated to help others. He was a blessing to everyone he met.

His celebration of life will take place at Berean Baptist, 5626 Safford Rd, Rockford, IL, on Saturday, September 6th, 2025, with visitation at 10:00 a.m. and a service to follow at 11:00 a.m.