- Date Of Birth: August 26, 1945
- Date Of Death: July 2, 2022
- State: Massachusetts
Gerald Edward Smith passed away peacefully on July 2, 2022 at Cooley Dickinson Hospital after a short, heroic battle against a sudden, unexpected illness. Born in Westfield on August 26, 1945 to the late Edward and Winnifred (Bates) Smith, he was raised in Huntington and resided there for most of his life. A smart, patient, kind-hearted man, he was always willing to help others without hesitation and loved his family with every fiber of his being.
Gerald attended Springfield Trade and was a member of IBEW Local 7 in Springfield MA. In 1965, he enlisted in the US Navy and served in Vietnam aboard the USS Davis and USS Cromwell. After active duty he transferred to the US Naval Reserves retiring in 1995.
Gerald had infinite skills and proudly built the family home from the ground up. He spent most of his days with his wife of over 50 years traveling, tending to the garden and yard, and watching baseball and NASCAR. He also shared a mutual love of music with his daughter, introducing her to the beauty of vinyl records at an early age and attending live shows with her whenever he could.
Gerald is survived by his wife, the love of his life, Rita (Gallagher), and his daughter, Lisa Smith of Northampton, MA. He also leaves behind his sister Roberta Whitaker and husband Gordon of Huntington, MA; nephew Eric Whitaker and wife Jessica of Chester, MA; and niece Judith Maleckas and her 4 children Daniel, Harrison, James and Keira of Southampton, MA who lovingly referred to him as “Unk”.
The family would like to extend their thanks to the Surgical and Critical Care (ICU) Team at Cooley Dickinson Hospital for their unwavering efforts, kindness and compassion in such a difficult time.
And until we meet again, My Love, may God hold you in the palm of His hand.
