Jerry Windell Smith

Jerry Windell Smith passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday September 14, 2024. He was born in Tipton, Oklahoma on December 19, 1940 to Audra(Bud) Thompson and Reid(Wilma) Smith. 

Jerry had five brothers, one sister and loved spending time on his grandfather’s farm. He attended many schools throughout his childhood until finally settling in Overgaard, AZ to attend Snowflake High School. It was there that he met his sweetheart of 63 years Bette Ann Nunn. 

His greatest love was his family. Jerry had four sons, one daughter, and was beyond proud of his posterity and what they have accomplished. 

Jerry loved The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. He was baptized at age 19 and gained a strong testimony thereafter. He served in numerous church callings and spent more than 20 years serving in different bishoprics. He enjoyed singing in his ward choir. Jerry loved the temple and served in the baptistery for over seven years.

 He had many jobs throughout his life. He loved logging, driving trucks, and being out in the woods. His love for driving started when he was asked to drive the high school bus from Heber to Snowflake as a student. Jerry owned an airplane and had a strong passion for flying. One of his favorite stories to share was when he met John Wayne on the Globe airstrip. He fought various forest fires in his life helping save several communities. He owned a trucking company, Ponderosa Transport Inc. The last few years you could find him up on the Mogollon Rim blading roads. 

Jerry was an amazing man who blessed every person he met. He loved other people and was known for his tender heart. He believed in working hard and a job well done. He took pride in his family. He loved his cowboy hat, boots, riding horses, going on cattle drives, camping, cooking, country music, and sharing stories. He kept his sense of humor until the very end. He lived life to the fullest and was truly the best example of what every man should be. He will be missed dearly. 

Jerry is survived by his spouse Bette, sons Tony(Julie), Keith(Colleen), Kevin(Melanie), Rick(Cheri), and daughter Shawna, along with 29 grandkids and 60 great grandkids. His most prized possession was his family.

To view the livestream of the services, please click here.