On April 3, 2017, Jerry Lee Smith of Morrisdale went home to be with his Heavenly Father.
As he passed through this world, he walked hand-in-hand with the love of his life, Nancy Lee (Pearce) Smith, for 57 years, and they had a love that few will ever know.
His wife survives at home in Morrisdale. Together they are the example that taught their children the value of hard work, loyalty and what it means to be a family.
Along with his wife, surviving is a son, Kevin Lee Smith of Morrisdale, who had worked side-by-side with his father from the age of five years, and he would ride in his father’s truck.
Kevin had his first job with his father as truckers for Penelec. Later, upon his father’s retirement, they owned the former Kevin Smith Trucking, Morrisdale.
They were father-and-son business partners and best friends. They loved to share trips to Carlisle, flea markets and collecting die cast.
Mr. Smith was a heavy equipment operator and truck driver for 41 years. He also was an avid racing fan and had drove stock cars in his youth.
Also surviving are his two daughters, Sheri Lynne Graham and her fiancé, Paul Scheiner of Morrisdale and Tanya Lynne Gianonatti and her husband, Patrick of Fernley, Nev.
Mr. Smith’s values and common sense have always directed his daughters’ lives, and he will always remain their hero.
His loving ways, wisdom and his beautiful smile will always be the comfort the family will forever hold on to throughout their lives.
The “grandpa experience” was provided by his surviving grandsons, Derrick T. Graham of Morrisdale and Dylan T. Zimmerman of Fernley, Nev.
He is also survived by his brothers, Arthur Smith and his wife, Norma of Kylertown and Ted Pianta and his wife, Cathy of Missouri; a sister, Debbie Pianta Lumadue of Houtzdale; and in-laws, Wid Kerfoot of Philipsburg, Don Cartwright of Houtzdale and Wanda Kephart of Madera.
His fur friends, Alley and Ben, at home, also survive him. Because of his love for animals, in lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to, PAWS, 1401 Trout Rd., State College, PA 16801.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Alfred and Helen (Walker) Smith; sisters and brothers, Janet L. Kerfoot, Jack Smith, Madeline Cartwright and Barry Smith; and in-laws, Calvin and Ruth (Holt) Pearce and Tommy Pearce.
Private funeral services were held on Thursday, April 6, 2017 in the Chapel of Strange and Weaver Funeral Service, Morrisdale, with Pastor Matt Mitchell officiating. Burial was in Messiah Baptist Cemetery, Lanse.
