Geraldine 'Jerry' Smith, 79

Geraldine “Jerry” Ann Smith, 79, passed away peacefully on Jan. 8, 2014 with her son by her side. 

Jerry was born on April 18, 1934 in Stanley, N.D. to Thaddeus “Theodore” and Eva Goulet. She grew up in Minot, N.D. with her sister Patricia “Pat” and graduated from the Sacred Heart Academy in Minot, N.D. She married Don D. Smith on Oct. 10, 1952 in Portsmouth, Va.  

Jerry and Don raised their four children, Donna, Anthony, Cecilia and Mary in Kalispell and after Don’s retirement enjoyed many years together traveling to Mexico and Hawaii as well as their “snow bird” home in Yuma, Ariz.  

Jerry had a deep faith in the Lord and was a devout Catholic. She taught her children to pray and to trust in Him whenever they encountered difficulties.

Jerry was a wonderful gardener and seamstress. She enjoyed square dancing and ballroom dancing. She would dance around in the kitchen holding her newborn grandchildren. She took great pride in her children and grandchildren and would show them off to all she would meet. Jerry was an accomplished homemaker and excellent cook, and always went out of her way to ensure her family was happy and loved, especially at the holidays. She was also extremely talented with many crafts, including painting, ceramics, crocheting blankets and cross stitching pictures. She enjoyed giving her creations to her family and friends including her personal signature on them. Her gifts will always be treasured. 

Jerry is survived by her devoted husband, Don of 61 years; her son, Anthony Smith; daughters Mary Nowlin and Cecilia (Wayne ) Brininger; her grandchildren Bill, Brianne, Katelyn, Rachel, Sydney, Abigail and Domininc; three great-grandchildren; and her sister Pat Jam.

Jerry is preceded in death by her daughter, Donna Smith, and her parents.

Visitation will be held at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 14 at Buffalo Hill Funeral Home in Kalispell, with a rosary service at 7 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 15 at Buffalo Hill Funeral Home, with burial to follow at Conrad Cemetery. A reception will follow at the Moose Lodge.

To send condolences to the family please visit www.buffalohillfh.com 

Buffalo Hill Funeral Home caring for the family.