Jerry Lee Smith, age 77, of Canadian Lakes, passed away on October 3, 2017 after a short and unexpected illness. Jerry was born on January 23, 1940 in Cadillac, and graduated from Howell High School in 1959 as a multi-sport athlete. He and his wife Nancy (Fournier) Smith were married on September 27, 1958 in Mason.

Jerry spent most of his career in sales and was also a well-known DJ and karaoke host. In his retirement, Jerry continued to host karaoke shows and various music gigs, and ran a successful boat rental business from his Canadian Lakes property. Jerry was a lover of all music and it was ingrained in most everything he did. He loved to be outdoors and spent time fishing, boating, and feeding the deer outside his home. He was always smiling and bringing joy to everyone around him with his well-known laugh. Jerry could regularly be found sporting green and white as one of the biggest Spartan fans around.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Reah Smith; and his older brother, Frederick Smith. 
Left to honor Jerry and carry on his song are his beloved wife of 59 years, Nancy; his two children, Debra Wright and Jerry Smith Jr.; his two granddaughters, Brandi (Stephanie) Becker-Wright and Dana (Cody) Jones; his two great-grandchildren, Danica and Cody Jones; his sisters, Linda (David) Willard, Marilyn (Barry) Pierce, Aleta (Robert) Chapman, and Rosanne Smith; as well as many nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews. 

A memorial service for family and friends will be held at a later date to be determined. If desired, memorial contributions can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association – GMC at www.alz.org/gmc.

Honoring his wishes cremation will take place. To send a message of sympathy to the family, sign Jerry’s online guest book, or to share a favorite memory, please visit: www.MichiganCremation.com

Arrangements are entrusted to Michigan Cremation & Funeral Care, Grand Rapids.