Maynard "Jerry"-Smith-Obituary

Maynard "Jerry" Smith

Milwaukie, Oregon

04/12/1933 - 07/08/2025

About

DIED
July 8, 2025
LOCATION
Milwaukie, Oregon

Obituary

Jerry Smith passed away, peacefully, in his home on 8th July, after a steady decline in overall health and a recent fall. Intact to the end was his quick wit, charm, and appreciation for those around him. Now a little bit about this fine fellow. Jerry spent his childhood in Penawawa, Washington,...

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Guest Book

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I had the privilege of sharing a house in Sunriver with Jerry and others for numerous bike ride weekends. We also enjoyed meals together in Long Beach, WA and San Juan Island, also on bike rides. I enjoyed his company so much. He was kind, funny, and generous. One year at Sunriver, I brought my new espresso machine and Jerry couldn't have been more tickled. He loved a good latte! He was European in his dinner habits, wanting to eat much later than the rest of us, even after putting miles and...

Please have my condolence. May the peace of the most high that surpasses human understanding engulf the family at such a time like this. My Jerry rest in peace.

My condolences to you, Marsha & the entire family. What a wonderful tribute to your father!

Jerry instilled in me how important it is to wear a bicycle helmet. Once we(family & I) were out of town and Jordan and I went cycling. When we returned, both of us did not have helmets and he became extremely concerned. I promised him from that day on I would always wear a helmet and kept that promise to date! Thank you Jerry!!

When I came back to Portland after three years splashing around in the waters if the Caribbean, Jerry was instrumental in getting me active again in the bike club. He also encouraged my new bride, Cheryl, to participate with me. We ended up sharing a lot of miles and smiles, sometimes on single bikes, and sometimes on our tandems, along with Jordan. Speaking of Jordan, we know he will miss his grandfather. Nobody ever had a better one!

We live about a mile from Jerry and Donna in Sellwood. I would often see him riding his bike through the neighborhood and though we didn't really know each other, we'd wave. Later we actually met at theater events. One day I decided to ride my bike over and say hi. He and Donna kindly invited me in for a nice chat. His beaming countenance will always shine in my memory.

We had such lively conversations sometimes about Shakespeare since he studied in Ashland in pre- Shakespeare festival. He was so pleasant and welcoming in his personality. Knowing him was an uplifting experience.

We are so honored to have known Jerry and spent time hearing his stories and singing songs! He will be greatly missed.

I have fond memories of Jerry and the whole family, from back "in the day" of First United Methodist Church activities. My heart is with you all during this time. Blessings, Marcey Balcomb