Sally Jean Smith

Sally Jean Smith, age 88, a lifelong resident of New Philadelphia, died peacefully, Saturday, April 6, 2024, surrounded by her family, while in the care of Park Village Southside at New Philadelphia following a period of declining health.

Born in Union Hospital at Dover on September 28, 1935, Sally was one of five children born to the late Harold and Nora Jean Bean Smith.

She was a 1953 graduate of New Philadelphia High School and worked as a secretary for the former Ohio Power Company for 42 years and was a longtime member of the American Business Women’s Association. 

Sally’s faith was nurtured at the Otterbein United Methodist Church at New Philadelphia where she has been a member for the past 76 years. She was actively involved as the church’s financial secretary for many years, was active with the United Women of Faith, assisted in the kitchen for special church functions and enjoyed helping with various fundraisers.

She enjoyed playing cards, especially Bridge, league bowling, golfing, camping, traveling, and making casino trips. She also loved spending time with her siblings, nieces, and nephews, and extended family.

Sally will be missed by a brother, John (Tracie) Smith of Dover; a sister, Jane (Bob) Gerber of New Philadelphia; a sister-in-law, Marcia Williams of Michigan; numerous nieces and nephews, Kathy (Brent) Jarrett, Barbara (Zubin) Bharucha, Elizabeth LaRocco, Dawn Ravine, Erik (Michelle) Smith, Jonathan (Enjoli) Gerber, Amy (Jarrod Slabaugh) Smith, David (Windi) Gerber, and Andrew (Katie) Smith as well as numerous great-nieces and great-nephews.

In addition to her parents, Sally was preceded in death by a brother, Jerry Smith; a sister, Julie Smith, and a niece, Jeralea Ebmyer.

A memorial service celebrating Sally’s life will be led by Pastor Don Perks on Sunday, April 21, 2024, in the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory at New Philadelphia beginning at 2:00 PM. The family will greet guests one hour prior to the service from 1:00 – 2:00 PM. A private graveside service, prior to the memorial service, will take place in the East Avenue Cemetery.

Tuscora Park has always played an important part in the lives of the Smith family, in Sally’s memory the family requests memorial contributions in her name be directed to RTY, Inc. 161 Tuscora Avenue NW, New Philadelphia, OH 44663.

Those wishing to do so may send the family a personal condolence and light a candle in remembrance of Sally by visiting the funeral home’s website at www.GeibCares.com.