Jerrell Lee Smith

Jerrell L. Smith aka "Biology Bob," of Iola, Kansas, passed away at his home on December 28, 2024.

Jerrell was born on January 28, 1938, in Athol, Kansas, to Elmer and Neva (Conley) Smith.

After high school, Jerrell attended college at Fort Hays before enlisting in the United States Army. While serving, he spent time at the Walter Reed Medical Center, in Washington, D.C., where he met B. Ellen Holt on a blind date. They later married on March 16, 1963. After getting married, Jerrell and B. Ellen moved to Cottonwood Falls, Kansas, where he worked for the Fish and Game Department. After a short time, they moved to Emporia and Jerrell earned his Master of Education.

Upon completion of his degree, the couple moved to Iola, where they raised their two daughters, and Jerrell taught high school biology, human anatomy, and zoology for 35 years.

Jerrell developed an interest in photography, and also liked woodworking. He enjoyed hunting and fishing. Jerrell was an avid gardener and liked to grow both flowers and vegetables. His happy place was sitting on his porch swing and listening to the birds.

Jerrell was preceded in death by both parents; wife, B. Ellen; and siblings, Wilbur Smith and Norma Conaway.

He is survived by daughters, Wendy Derrick of Hewitt, Texas and Cindy (Bradley) Schafer of El Dorado, Kansas; nine grandchildren; and one great-grandson.

A memorial visitation for Jerrell will be held on January 17, 2025, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM in The Venue at Feuerborn Family Funeral Service, 1883 US Highway 54, Iola, Kansas. Memorials are suggested to Allen County Animal Rescue Facility (ACARF) and may be left in the care of the funeral home. Condolences for the family may be left at www.feuerbornfuneral.com