Obituary of Geraldine J. Smith

Geraldine J. Smith was known by many names and loved by many people. To her 10 grandchildren she was grandma; to her 14 great grandchildren she was GG; to her brothers, sisters and her many friends around the world, she was Jerri; and to her 3 children, who loved her deeply, she was Mom. Jerri was a woman of immense faith in God and abundant generosity, and she touched many lives. Jerri died peacefully on August 21, 2020 in Rathdrum, Idaho. In July of 1998, Jerri was preceded in death by her husband of more than 40 years, Otis Ray Smith. Jerri and her husband, “Smitty”, lived for more than four decades in the Tri-Cities, Washington. For much of the last 20 years Jerri’s faith and generosity led her to do work in Israel on behalf of those less fortunate. She loved to travel and see new places while helping others. Jerri was born in Rocky Comfort, Missouri on October 20, 1935, the daughter of Fred L. and Victoria Butler. She was preceded in death by her parents as well as siblings Robert Marks, Helen Beaver, Richard Butler, and Romey Butler. Jerri is survived by siblings Hazel Maples and Mack (Phyllis) Butler as well as two sisters-in-law, Marlene Butler and Dorothy Butler. Jerri is also survived by her three children, Micah (Nancy), Jack (Gayle) and Sherri Smith. From their Mother, they learned about God's love and the power of faith, hope, and laughter. Her legacy with her grandchildren is just as strong, and Jerri played a vital role in the lives of Ryan (Ellie) Andrea (Gareth) Hannah (Ben) Jacob (Laura) Ethan (Lydia) Kathryn (Nathan) Matthew (Arcadia) Margaret (Sean) Andrew (Stephanie) and Peter. Jerri has been laid to rest at Riverview Heights Cemetery in Kennewick, Washington. Her children look forward to holding a celebration of her life for family and friends in the coming months. Family and friends will be notified of the celebration when community health restrictions are lifted and the many people who loved Jerri can come together.