Gerald (Jerry) William Smith Gerald (Jerry) William Smith

Gerald (Jerry) William Smith Gerald (Jerry) William Smith peacefully passed away at the age of 89 on March 13, 2025 in his home of 35 years shared with his wife, Karen. Jerry was born in Lake Charles, LA June 22, 1935 and grew up in Beaumont, TX. Jerry joined the U.S. Air Force December 7, 1953, served as a Language Specialist until discharged as a Staff Sergeant December 6, 1957. Jerry graduated from Lamar University in 1961 with a EE degree. In September 1961 he was hired by Sandia National Laboratories and received his MS Degree at UNM. Jerry retired May 2003 completing 40 years doing what brought him joy and satisfaction. His proudest accomplishment was his work with Neutron Tubes resulting in $20M savings per build. He was instrumental bringing Neutron Tube production to Sandia Labs from Pinellas, FL. Jerry was preceded in death by his Father Wilbert Smith, Mother Irene Cogbill, brother James and his beautiful daughter Bonnie Wofford. He is survived by his wife Karen of 33 years, son Gregory Smith (Suzanne); grandchildren Erin Smith, Benjamin Smith, Lyndsay Strong (Ryan), and Amber Wofford; great grandchildren Ayden Strong, Brooklyn Strong, Kayla Patterson (Christian) and Brandon Marshall (Rebekah); great-great grandchildren Charlotte and Sawyer Marshall. He is also survived by his step-children Tamara Nothstine (Thomas), Teryl Crowley and David Crowley; step-grandchildren Brittany Gray (James), Hailey Nothstine, Kalen Weinmeister (Debra), Taylor Weinmeister, Eli Crowley and Matthew Crowley; step-great granddaughter Mila Gray. Jerry participated in many sports: tennis, baseball, bowling & volleyball. Golf was his passion. He is surely teeing it up as we celebrate his life. Jerry will be remembered as "Dado" to his grandchildren and great grandchildren and loved all of his family dearly. He was a man of integrity, patience and love of country. For information on his Celebration of Life, contact Tamara Nothstine at tnothstine@gmail.com.