Jerry Lee Smith

Jerry Lee Smith, age 83, of Oblong, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 20, 2025, at 8:07 AM at Ridgeview Nursing and Rehab in Oblong. He was born on April 19, 1942, in Pike County, Indiana, to Zelta James Smith and Aileen (Waterson) Smith. Jerry was a proud graduate of Bridgeport High School, Class of 1960. On November 2, 1963, he married the love of his life, Sandra Sue Crouch, and together they shared many wonderful years until her passing on February 17, 2015. Jerry was a hardworking man who spent 15 years with Marathon Oil Production and later served in the maintenance department at Crawford Memorial Hospital, retiring in 2010. He was a proud member of the Oblong Antique Tractor and Engine Association, where he found joy in preserving the past and sharing his passion with others. In his free time, Jerry enjoyed visiting with friends over coffee at Casey's General Store, gardening, woodworking, and collecting all types of caps. He was a man of simple pleasures and meaningful connections. He is survived by his son, Travis (Teresa) Smith of Oblong, Illinois; daughter, Stacy Houser of Oblong, Illinois; grandchildren, Jason (Ashley) Andrews, Derek Yager, Amber (Michael) Zakowski, Seth (Lexie) Smith, and Abby (Moises) Ixtepan; and great-grandchildren, Alden Andrews, Kairi Giffin, Jayden Ixtepan, Carson Andrews, Anna Inboden, Selina Ixtepan, Walker Inboden, Gemma Smith, Jazmine Ixtepan, and Baby Smith expected soon. He is also survived by several nieces, nephews, sisters-in-law, and brothers-in-law. He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Sandra; one daughter, Shannon Smith; and his brother, Gary Smith. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at Pulliam Funeral Home in Oblong, Illinois with Ronnie Crawford officiating. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at the funeral home. Memorial donations may be made to the Oblong Antique Tractor and Engine Association. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Jerry, please visit our floral store.