SMITH, Gerald (Jerry) Lee

Today's News-Herald, Lake Havasu City, AZ - Posted: Saturday, November 3, 2012 - Gerald "Jerry" Lee Smith, 65, passed away Oct. 27, 2012 at the Polodori House in Lake Havasu City. He was born on July 14, 1947, in Terra Haute, Ind., to Al and Virginia (Scott) Smith. Jerry, as he was known to his family and friends, served his country proudly for six years in the U.S. Army as a Medical Specialist during Vietnam. His service and experience in the U.S. Army enabled him to continue for the next 40 years in the medical field, including working at the Indian Health Service (IHS) in Parker, where he was greatly respected at his microbiology department. Jerry married his beloved wife, Lisa, Sept. 11, 2004, in Hermitage, Tenn. Together they moved to Lake Havasu City seven years ago, coming from Oregon. They packed a lifetime of love, friendship, devotion, loyalty and compassion in a mere 10 years. Jerry admired and embraced the Native American culture and was always known and respected for his compassionate, sensitive and giving nature. He was considered by his wife, Lisa, to be not only a loving companion, but an eloquent speaker and reader of novels, poetry and his original works. Jerry was known as "The Voice" due to his ability to speak in many different ways. He had a passion for acting and through the years he performed in movies, commercials and amateur theater, which was a passion of his. Jerry's family and friends will remember him as a true gentleman in every sense of the word and he will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. Jerry is survived by his loving wife, Lisa Smith, of Lake Havasu City; mother, Virginia Scholl; children, Jordanna, Julianna and Scott; five grandchildren; sister, Cheryl Jones; brother, Tom Smith and many relatives in California, Alabama, Arizona and Oregon. He was preceded in death by his father, Al Smith; and a brother, Bobby Smith. Contributions can be made in Jerry's name to the American Cancer Association. Thoughts, memories and condolences can be sent to the family directly for through www.lakehavasumortuary.com.