SMITH, GERALD FRANCIS
Posted: May 8th, 2020
November 17, 1943 – April 30, 2020
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Gerald “Jerry” Francis Smith. He passed away quickly and peacefully on Thursday, April 30, 2020 at the age of 76 years, beloved husband of Diane Smith of Medicine Hat. He leaves to cherish his memory Diane, his wife of 53 years, daughters Jena (Derrick) Smith and Leiane (Geoff) Waylett, his grandson Myles, his brother Alan (Judy) Smith, his sister Cynthia (Lawrence) Wilms as well as numerous brothers- and sisters-in-law, cousins, nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Herbert and Jessie Smith.
Jerry was born on November 17, 1943 in Medicine Hat. He met Diane Williams during university and they later married on July 23, 1966 in Calgary. Jerry taught high school and spent most of his years as a teacher and a Vice-Principal at Crescent Heights High School in Medicine Hat. He was fond of reading, teaching, flying, playing music, traveling, dancing and spending time with his family. He was passionate about local history and the preservation of historical buildings, serving on the board of the Historical Society of Medicine Hat and District. He earned his pilot’s license and opened BarXH Aviation with friends in the mid 1970s. He and Diane spent many years participating in country dancing. They enjoyed performing and competing as part of a team named the Lonestar Dancers. After the team slowed down, Jerry and Diane continued to teach and compete in country dancing as a couple. Jerry was an avid reader and could often be found with his nose in a book. Following his retirement from teaching at CHHS in 2003 he and Diane enjoyed many years
traveling around the world. Jerry was always pleased to speak with familiar folks he ran into around town, and he kept in touch with friends from teaching for years after retiring. A small group of teachers continued to have “coffee chats” that he really enjoyed.
At Jerry’s wishes, he will be cremated and a memorial celebration of life will be held at a time that will allow more of us to gather to remember him. For more information, please visit his obituary page at www.piersons.ca/obituaries/ We respectfully decline flowers in Jerry’s memory, but for those who wish to remember Jerry with a donation, please choose any deserving charity.