Geoffrey James Ludwick Smeja

Geoffrey James Smeja, 61, of Fort Myers, Florida, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on June 18, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with prostate cancer. He fought with the strength and spirit of a warrior.

Born on August 23, 1964, in Sheffield, England, he was the beloved son of the late Edmund and Joan Smeja. His journey took him from England to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in 2008, where he became a U.S. citizen, and later to Fort Myers, Florida, in 2017, where he built a life full of hard work, devotion, and simple joys shared with the people he loved most.

He was the loving husband of Debra Jean Smeja, with whom he shared 18 years of marriage, companionship, and devotion. Whether traveling the world, enjoying quiet Sunday mornings together, or cheering on his favorite sports team, Geoff always found ways to show Debra how deeply he cared. Her life was forever enriched by his love, loyalty, and steady presence.

Geoff was a proud father to his beautiful daughter, Laura Stringer (Scott) of Kiveton, England, and a cherished grandfather to Aubrey Stringer. Loving and supportive, he was always there with guidance, encouragement, and a steady presence. He took immense pride in Laura’s achievements, treasured their shared love of gardening, and celebrated every milestone they shared. He is also lovingly remembered by his sister, Jennifer Barker (Ralph) of Rotherham, England, along with many other family members who will sadly miss him.

Throughout his life, Geoff was known for his strong work ethic and determination. In the United Kingdom, he worked for many years as a self-employed lorry driver at Greencore, and after making his way to Florida, he became a landscape business owner of Renaissance Gardening, LLC. His work reflected one of his greatest passions: gardening. Geoff had a special love for plants and took pride in nurturing beauty from the earth.

Geoff also loved rock music, football, good food, fine wine, and a cold beer. He had a passion for history and enjoyed painting soldiers, a pastime that reflected his patience, creativity, and eye for detail. He found happiness in life’s familiar comforts and in the moments he shared with family and friends. Those who knew him will remember him as a social butterfly with a wonderful sense of humor, and they will cherish the many treasured memories he leaves behind.

Geoff will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His memory will live on in the hearts of Debra, his family, and his loved ones, and in the gardens he tended, the music he enjoyed, the stories shared in his honor, and the countless moments that will continue to bring him close.

The family wishes to express their deepest gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and staff at Lee Health Regional Cancer Center, Moffitt Cancer Center, and Avow Hospice for their exceptional care, compassion, and support. Memorial donations may be made in Geoffrey’s honor to any of these organizations.