Jerry L. Smith

Jerry Lee Smith, 64, of Bremen, passed away Friday, March 1, 2024 at Memorial Hospital of South Bend.  Jerry was born on September 27, 1959 in Bremen, the son of Kenneth and Evelyn “June” (Hartman) Smith.  On April 2, 1993 in Bourbon, IN he married Karen Kiefer, who survives. Jerry is survived by his loving wife, Karen; four children: Morgan (Joel) Okafor of Indianapolis, Amy (Aaron Hickman) Smith of Knox, Derek (Amy) Workman of Plymouth and Heather Schollmeier of Indianapolis and eight grandchildren.  He is also survived by his mother, June Smith of Bremen and five siblings: Linda (David) Crippen of Pittsburgh, PA, Mary (George) Shinkle of Sydney, Australia, Elaine (Phil) Gage of Shipshewana, IN, Roger Smith of Bremen and Steve Smith of Bremen. He is preceded in death by his father. Jerry will always be remembered for his selflessness and generosity, whether in the fields or on the court. An avid farmer, Jerry was always willing to extend his hand to another farmer in need. He was humble, reliable, and trustworthy which made him a great role model for young, up-and-coming farmers in the area. Jerry learned the value of hard work at a young age, and he carried that trait with him throughout his adult life. His passion for basketball made him a great mentor on the basketball court as well and he helped shape so many lives both on and off the court. He was truly an inspiration for all those he came into contact with. His passion for farming and love for basketball were only surpassed by the love he had for his family. Family meant the world to Jerry. He was always there to spectate a sporting event, help change a flat tire, or give his best fatherly advice. Time and distance meant nothing when it came to his kids and grandkids. Jerry had the biggest heart and loved his family tremendously. He was our rock, our biggest supporter, and we couldn’t have asked for a better dad, husband, papa, brother, or son. Jerry will be missed every day; however, his memory will live on forever in the hearts of all those who loved him. Visitation will be held from 4:00-8:00 pm, Wednesday, March 6, 2024 at Mishler Funeral Home, 2030 St Rd 331, Bremen.  Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am, Thursday, March 7, 2024 in Nappanee Missionary Church, 70417 SR 19, Nappanee with one hour of visitation prior to the service.  Burial will follow at Bremen Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to the Bremen F.F.A., 511 W. Grant St., Bremen, IN 46506.