Gerard J. Smith

Gerard J. Smith, known to many as Jerry was born in 1937 in the Bronx, NY and attended Fordham Preparatory School. After working for the New York Telephone Company, he enlisted in the Army in February 1958 and served in the US Army Signal Corps in Korea, supporting the Eighth United States Army. He was incredibly proud of his service tasked with maintaining, upgrading and securing communication networks. After being honorably discharged, he spent time at Catholic Seminary, but ultimately attended Marist College receiving his BA in English Literature. It was there where Gerard met his best friend Jim, who introduced him to his future bride, Evelyn. They were married nearly 58 years together, creating a beautiful life full of love, laughter and happiness.

Gerard spent much of his career with Shell Oil Company, moving his family to Texas when their children were young. Even though Gerard and Evelyn lived in Katy for 47 years, their New York accents and ties to family up north stayed strong.

Gerard's life revolved around Evelyn and his three daughters. His family was his world. The years were filled with road trips in the summer, supporting kids in their activities, cooking Sunday dinners, dancing in the living room, and being active members of St. Bartholomew's Catholic Church. Once grandchildren came along, they also became his world. He had college swag from each grandkid's school and made sure to wear the appropriate shirts and hats when visiting.

Gerard was always willing to help and lend a hand to friends, family and strangers. He was kind, patient, loving, strong and funny. He was a caretaker until the end. It is hard to imagine him without a smile on his face. He will be missed dearly, but we rejoice in knowing that one day we will all be reunited.

Gerard is survived by his loving wife Evelyn, his children Judy (Biff) Brannon, Deb Pilcher (Clay) Corbitt, and Lorraine Hursman. He leaves behind grandchildren Lauren and Ava Brannon, Jacob (Caileen) Pilcher, Matthew and Rebekah Pilcher, and Paige and Lily Hursman.

Gerard found eternal peace alongside his parents, Mike and Agnes Smith, and in-laws, Charlie and Evelyn Basso, his sister, Loretta Mercurio, as well as his granddaughter, Anna Claire Pilcher, and son-in-law, Wally Pilcher.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 19, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Schmidt Funeral Home, 1344 West Grand Parkway, Katy, Texas 77494. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, February 20, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Bartholomew Catholic Church, 5356 11th Street, Katy, Texas 77493.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donating to a favorite charity or one close to Gerard's heart. He supported Wounded Warrior Project, Tunnel to Towers Foundation and MD Anderson Cancer Center.