Jerry W. Smith

Jerry Wayne Smith, age 74, of Pittsfield, IL passed away on Friday January 24, 2025, at Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL.  He was born on December 16, 1950, in Pittsfield, IL to Marion ‘Tunney’ and Doris (Ruble) Smith.  Jerry first married Carol (Schaaf) and to this union came two daughters.  He later married Susan (Todd) and to this union came one daughter and one son. 

Jerry attended Pittsfield Schools and went on to work with his dad, who owned and operated Tunney Smith and Son Dragline Service.  He later worked for the Pike County Highway Department and then was a snowbird for the Illinois Highway Department.  He finished his working career as a caretaker at the Naples Abbott House.  Jerry was a past member of the Jaycee’s, Moose Lodge and Pittsfield Fire Department.  He was very proud of his time on the fire department and held a degree in Fire Arson Investigation.  He retired from the department holding the office of Captain.  Jerry was also a founding father of the Son’s of the American Legion in Pittsfield.  He was an avid Chief’s football and Cardinal baseball fan.  He enjoyed attending car shows and going fishing.  At one time he held the record for the biggest catfish caught at the Pittsfield Lake.  Jerry also enjoyed riding his motorcycle and going to the Copperhead.  He loved attending his children’s events, but his grandchildren were the best thing in his world.  Jerry could be stubborn, a bit onery but will be remembered by his infectious laugh. 

Jerry is survived by his children, Carrie (Lee) McDaniles of Pearl, IL, Emily Smith of Mt. Sterling, IL, Jessica (Dustin) Lash of Jacksonville, Alabama, Jeremy (Devin) Smith of Barry, IL; grandchildren, Jacob (Reagan) Williams, Adrianna (Hung) McDaniles, Cylee McDaniles, Brett (Courtney) Harris, Abby Harris, Madyson Lash, Marcus Lash, Camren Lash, Harper Lash, Layla Brink, Tyson Brink, Baylee Brink; great-grandchildren, Cora Ann Harris, Odin Ngo, Enzi Ngo; one sister Joyce Williams of Pittsfield, IL; nieces Denise (Mike) Joiner and Kari (Kevin) Peterson.  He was preceded in death by his parents and brother-in-law Bob Williams. 

Services will be held on Thursday February 6, 2025, at 6:00 PM at Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield.  Visitation will be from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM prior to the service.  Burial will be held at a later date.  Memorials are suggested to be made to the family c/o Niebur Funeral Home or the Pittsfield Fire Department.  Online condolences may be left to the family at www.nieburfh.com.  Niebur Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

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