Jessica R. Smith

Jessica Ruth "Gidagaakoons" Smith, age 37, passed away on Friday, January 9, 2026. She was born on March 2, 1988, to Bruce and Mary (Richardson) Smith in Minneapolis, Minnesota. She was raised in Cloquet, Minnesota and began her schooling at Queen of Peace Catholic School. She graduated from Fond du Lac Ojibwe School and went on to attend Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College where she earned her first degree in law enforcement. Education continued to be a focus in Jessica's life as she earned her bachelor's degree in legal studies at University of Wisconsin - Superior. There she received the Chancellor's Leadership award among various other recognitions. Her most recent achievement was obtaining her master's degree in tribal governance and administration through the University of Minnesota – Duluth.

Jessica put her advanced education to use as a legal advocate for MN350 and the MMIR movement. She was passionate and strong in letting her voice for the people be heard. Jessica worked in New Mexico and various other areas of the country to educate and bring awareness of MMIR to law enforcement. She also spent time with AICHO and Men As Peacemakers to help victims of domestic violence. Though she was the baby of her family, Jessica grew into her legacy as a two-spirit warrior and protector. Regardless of the implications on her own life or plans, she could always be counted on to drop everything to help in times of need. Her caring spirit extended to animals as well; she loved the company of her dogs and bearded dragons. Jessica also maintained a love for the Green Bay Packers and supported them alongside her daughter through thick and thin.

Jessica will be remembered by her mother, Mary Smith; daughter, Isabella Roy; siblings, Amanda Smith (Steve Abrahamson), Mary Beth Smith, Angie Mountain, Brandon Omaha, and brother by choice, Brandon Castellano; nieces and nephews, Joshua Smith, Tristen Goodreau, Jayce Castellano, and Jazelle Smith; and countless other beloved relatives and friends who became family. She was preceded in death by her father, Bruce Smith; grandmother, Margaret Richardson; grandfather, Robert Strong; special auntie, Margie Olson; and Jaime "Chump" Houle, whose relationship began with Jessica as her caregiver but then quickly became like family.

Services will be held at Nelson Funeral Care in Cloquet. A wake service will be from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 13, 2026. A traditional funeral service will follow at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 14, 2026. Interment will be at New Calvary Cemetery.