Jared P. Smith

Jared Paul Smith, 30, of Mount Pleasant, died peacefully Saturday, November 2, 2024, at his home surrounded by family.

Jared was born February 15, 1994, in Mount Pleasant, the son of David and Janet (McMillan) Smith. He graduated from Mount Pleasant High School in 2013. Jared was confirmed and baptized at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church where he continued to be a faithful member, as well as a member of Knights of Columbus. Jared worked as a greeter at Orscheln’s, welcoming everyone with a big smile. He was an Eagle Scout, member of the Tribe of the Silver Tomahawk and a nine year 4-H member.

Jared could often be found fishing and spending time at his Make A Wish cabin. He was particularly fond of the outdoors watching squirrels, birds and meticulously maintaining his Purple Martin houses. Picking out pecans was one of his favorite pastimes as well as completing puzzles, Legos, and the time spent making wooden crosses. Jared loved music, singing and belting out Johnny Cash during karaoke. Jared was proud to exhibit his Case lawn tractor and Farmall H tractor at Old Threshers. A unique hobby of Jared’s was polishing grommets from worn out American Flags and giving them to Veterans. He was passionate about Mount Pleasant Panther football. Jared loved root beer, peach rings, and ‘skinless’ pumpkin pie, meaning no crust. He loved listening to KILJ.

Jared did not let Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy define him. He would send Christmas cards all over the United States to others with his same condition. Jared’s family would like to thank the University of Iowa Neuromuscular Clinic for the care he received.

Jared is survived by his parents David and Janet Smith; sister Hannah (Drew) Perry and son Cooper of Solon; brother Cole (Shay Slifka) Smith of Lone Tree; grandparents Velna Smith of Salem, Robert and Elizabeth McMillan of Stanley; best friend Grant Davidson of Mount Pleasant; and his faithful companion dog Mollie.

He was preceded in death by his grandfather Edward Smith, uncle James McMillan, and beloved golden retriever Penny.

Memorial Mass will be held 10:30 a.m. Thursday, November 7, 2024, at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church. Rev. Ross Epping will celebrate the Mass. Burial will follow in the St. Alphonsus Cemetery. Visitation will be held 1:00-7:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 6, at the Olson-Powell Chapel & Crematory. The family will greet friends beginning at 5:00 p.m. A Vigil Wake Service will be held at 4:30 p.m. A memorial fund has been established for Midwest Old Thresher’s for accessibility improvement. The Olson-Powell Chapel & Crematory is caring for Jared and his family.