Gerald H. Smith

Gerald Hershel Smith, 86, of East Palestine, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 22, 2023 after a long illness. He was born on July 15, 1937 in New Brighton to the late Hershel and Alice (Allison) Smith.

Jerry graduated from Beaver High School in 1955 where he played football and developed lifelong friendships.

He dedicated 30 years to a military career, a paratrooper in the Army and transitioned to the Air Force. During Vietnam War, he produced mimeograph newspaper and recorded histories for his unit. He was stationed at the Pentagon in Washington, D.C. for 13 Years, working as a photojournalist for Airmen's magazine. He retired Senior Master Sargent in 1984. He earned his B.S. in journalism along the way.

For the first 12 years of retirement, Jerry worked for the Morning Journal and the Beaver County Times. He remained an active member of the American Legion East Palestine Chapter.

He is survived by his daughter; Jenean Eberhardt of La Jolla, CA., a son; Gerald H. Smith II (Christina Leckie) of Virginia, four grandchildren; Heston, Docie, Christina and Eric, four great-grandchildren, brother; Hershel Howard Smith (Linda Braun), two sisters; Ann Maysick, Barbara Cain, two step sons; David Walker, and Robert Myers.

Jerry was preceded in death by his two sisters; Alice Anderson and Karen Baker.

As per Gerald’s request all services are private, and he will be laid to rest at Sylvania Hills Memorial Park.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Saul-Gabauer Funeral Home, Inc.

273 Rt. 68, Rochester, PA 15074.