Gerald Preston Smith Jr.

Gerald Preston Smith, Jr., (62), of Smithsburg, MD, peacefully entered the Glory of the Lord on August 3, 2023 surrounded by loved ones. 

Gerald, known to his friends as “Jerry” or “Smitty,” was known for his charming smile, infectious laugh, and outgoing nature. He was a stranger to no one and quickly made friends wherever he went. He was a kind and faithful servant of the Lord, and an active, lifelong member of Frederick Presbyterian Church.  He found great joy serving as a Deacon, a youth mentor, a worship assistant, and driving the church bus for the Open Door Program.

Jerry was a true outdoorsman. He especially enjoyed hunting, fishing, skiing, and was an avid golfer.   He loved all sports and was a passionate Baltimore Ravens Football fan since their inception. Jerry loved to entertain, was an excellent cook, and an even more excellent host. He enjoyed travelling abroad, but he truly loved being home, playing games with his family and grandkids. 

Jerry graduated from Middletown High School, Middletown, MD and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Forestry from West Virginia University. He was the owner/operator of a successful commercial landscaping company for many years.

Gerald was preceded in death by his parents, Gerald and JoAnn R. Smith of Middletown, and his in-laws, Robert and Doris McCutcheon of Braddock Heights, MD. He is survived by his devoted wife of 39 years, Rev. Vanessa McCutcheon Smith; his daughter Lauren, and husband Mark Kinnari, of Middletown; and his son Gerald “Preston” Smith III, and wife Gabriella, of Braddock Heights, MD.  He was known and loved as “Poppy” to his six grandchildren: Daniel, Jeremiah and Ezra Kinnari; Gerald Preston IV, Meira Mae, and Porter Smith. He is also survived by his brother Michael (Roberta) Smith of East Berlin, PA, and his sister JoEllen (David) Hansroth of Middletown.  He leaves behind many cousins, nieces, nephews and in-laws.

There will be a Celebration of Grace for Gerald on Saturday, August 19, 2023 at 10:30 am at Frederick Presbyterian Church, 115 W. 2^nd St. Frederick, MD. A light luncheon will follow. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Hedgesville Presbyterian Church, PO Box 18, Hedgesville, WV 25427 or Frederick Rescue Mission, PO Box 3389, Frederick, MD 21705.