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Sammie Smith Obituary
Lansing
Sammie Jerome Smith, 63, passed away unexpectedly at home on February 16, 2015. Born in Baytown, Texas he was the youngest child of Madonia (Hurst) and Kermit T. Smith, Sr.
Jerome graduated from Robert E. Lee High School and attended Lee College before moving to Lansing. He worked at the G.M. Proving Grounds in Milford from 1972 until retiring in 2008 and made many life-long friends while there. He also worked part-time at Toys R Us in his retirement and truly enjoyed the young children he encountered on his job.
Jerome loved sports and was always involved whether; playing (football, baseball, basketball, softball, volleyball, golf), coaching, officiating, or attending. He followed all MSU sports and faithfully supported Spartan football ever since his brother played under Duffy Daugherty. Jerome believed in the character-shaping value of sports for youth and enjoyed his involvement as he coached youth football teams; officiated floor hockey; helped with the First Tee program; and volunteered for Special Olympics.
Jerome was well known for his love of golf. He played as often as possible on the many beautiful Michigan courses and especially loved the courses at Shanty Creek and Forest Akers. He also played the courses of other states whenever he traveled but, unfortunately, is now unable to complete his goal of playing in all fifty states.
Jerome is most recently preceded in death by his parents and niece, Leticia Grevenberg. He is survived by his partner of 39 years, Judith Libby; his brother Kermit T Smith, Jr. (Jane Hanna); his sisters, Annetta Smith Grevenberg and Ethel C. Smith; 9 nieces and nephews and many extended family members. He is also survived by Judith's sons Glenn Libby and Gregg Libby and their families.
A celebration of his life is being planned for early summer. Contributions may be made in his memory to The American Heart Association. The family is being served by Palmer, Bush & Jensen Family Funeral Homes, Lansing Chapel. Condolences to the family may be made at www.palmerbush.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Sammie Smith
max lopez
March 27, 2015
judy i was so sorry to here about jerome i just heard this made me very sad one of the most wonderful persons i have ever had the pleasure to know the original panther rip my freind till we meet again
Clayton Montgomery
March 9, 2015
Judy,I am sorry here about your lost. Rome, we will miss you.
Laurie Mcmahon
March 5, 2015
Dearest Judy, Kermit, and Smith family,
Our Jerome owned our hearts and our gratitude. He put my darling Kevin and I together, back in the day, and was a steadfast loyal friend. His easy-going and friendly nature was, and is, a blessing to us forever. We are so very disappointed that we won't have him with us in-person to grow older with. We are hurting for you and with you. You have our abiding love and sympathy, Laurie and Kevin Mcmahon.
Lorinda Tait
March 2, 2015
Hey, You should have gotten my card. You probably are aware that I won't be stopping by with Dave. Take care, Lo
peg murphy
March 2, 2015
Judy, I am so sorry for your loss.
My thoughts are with you and your
family. Cherish the happy memories
made by you and Jerome in these
past years.
peg murphy (berry)
Lorraine & Juno Hickman
March 2, 2015
Jerome will be deeply missed by the Hickman family. He was a sweet man, very kind, and full of good advice.
American Heart Association
March 1, 2015
May your memories of the wonderful times you shared with your loved one comfort you and your family, today and always.
March 1, 2015
the Bibbs family truly wishes to give our condolences to the family. You are all in our prayers. May the love of family and friends carry you through. Judy, my prayers go out for you.
Mo & Dan Davis
March 1, 2015
Judy, I am so sorry to hear about Jerome's death. Such a kind and charitable man as so lovingly expressed in his obituary, he surely will be missed. Peace and love to you and your families at this time.
Showing 1 - 10 of 10 results
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Funeral services provided by:
Palmer Bush & Jensen Family Funeral Homes - Lansing Chapel520 E. Mt. Hope Ave., Lansing, MI 48910
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