It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved brother, Jerry Smith. Jerry departed from this world last night after a courageous battle with severe lung disease and cancer. His health struggles were further complicated by the lingering effects of exposure to Agent Orange during his service in Vietnam.
Born and raised in Oswego, NY, Jerry was a resilient and determined individual who faced life’s challenges head-on. Despite his reclusive nature in recent years, his impact on our lives and the community around him was undeniable.
Jerry served his country with honor and bravery during the Vietnam War, and it was during this time that he was exposed to Agent Orange, a powerful herbicide used during the conflict. Tragically, the long-term consequences of this exposure contributed to the health issues that Jerry valiantly fought until his last breath.
In remembering Jerry, we reflect on the sacrifices he made for his country, his resilience in the face of adversity, and the quiet strength that defined him. Though a dated picture is all we have to share, as he chose a more private and reclusive life in recent years, it is a testament to the deep and lasting impact he had on those who knew and loved him.
Jerry’s passing follows closely on the heels of our dear mother’s departure just last month. In the midst of our grief, we find solace in the thought that she is now reunited with Jerry, free from the pain and suffering that both endured in their final days.
As we say our final goodbyes to Jerry, let us remember the warmth of his smile, the strength of his character, and the love he shared with family and friends. In his honor, let us also advocate for the recognition and support of veterans who, like Jerry, bore the burden of wartime exposure to substances that impacted their health long after their service concluded.
The funeral arrangements for Jerry Smith will be announced shortly, and we invite all those who knew him to join us in celebrating his life and paying tribute to the indomitable spirit that defined him until the end. May Jerry rest in peace, and may his memory live on in the hearts of those he touched during his time on this earth.
