Born on January 14, 1944, in Asheboro, North Carolina, to Charlie Herman Smith and Lovie Evans Smith, Geri was raised in Burlington, North Carolina, where she graduated from Walter M. Williams High School. She later earned a degree in Psychology from the Woman’s College of the University of North Carolina, now known as the University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG).
An adventurous spirit and natural curiosity led Geri to Atlanta, where she built a life centered on faith, family, friendship, and service. There she met Carlos Sierra Haas, the love of her life. Together they shared 39 wonderful years of marriage, building a life rich with family, friendship, travel, and enduring love. Though Carlos preceded her in death by ten years, the bond they shared remained a source of strength throughout her life.
Professionally, Geri enjoyed a successful career in Human Resources and was known for her exceptional attention to detail, integrity, and genuine care for others. Beyond her professional accomplishments, she had a lifelong love of art and culture. She played an integral role alongside Carlos in their gallery in Mexico City. More than a business partner, she was his trusted confidante and right hand, helping manage the gallery while sharing his passion for supporting artists and collectors. Together they built lasting friendships and a life enriched by creativity, travel, and shared experiences. Among her greatest joys was traveling with Carlos and her family, creating memories and adventures that would be treasured for generations.
Above all, Geri was a devoted wife, loving mother, and adoring grandmother. The bond she shared with her son, Mark, was one of the great joys of her life, and in her final years their relationship was marked by unwavering love, devotion, and companionship. She found immense happiness in supporting those she loved, celebrating their accomplishments, and creating lasting memories together.
Geri’s Christian faith was a guiding force throughout her life and inspired her commitment to serving others. She was known for her warmth, generosity, strong convictions, and willingness to stand up for what she believed in. In her later years, she remained active in her community through her volunteer work with Habitat for Humanity, continuing a lifelong dedication to helping others.
She is survived by her loving son, Mark Haas; her cherished grandsons, Lucas Haas and Easton Haas; Jennifer Mackey, Mark's beloved partner and a treasured member of the family; her sister, Peggy Thiel; her sister-in-law, Tere Haas; her brothers-in-law, Steve Arthur and Elliot Haas; along with many extended family members and dear friends whose lives were enriched by her love and friendship.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Carlos Sierra Haas; her parents, Charlie Herman Smith and Lovie Evans Smith; and her beloved brother-in-law, Henry Thiel.
Geri’s legacy of faith, love, compassion, and service will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Her family finds comfort in knowing she is reunited with Carlos and resting in the presence of her Lord and Savior.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23
