Jerry Ward Smith, 82, passed away on 2/17/2026 at St George Reginal Hospital due to heart issues. He was born on 11/03/1943 in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Iris Spear and Cornell Smith.

Jerry married his high school sweetheart and together they shared a beautiful 63 years of love, partnership, and unwavering devotion. Their marriage was the foundation of a life built on commitment, laughter, and shared adventure. Together, they raised three children, building a home filled with love, guidance, and steady encouragement.

He began his career with Mountain Bell in the mail room, where his strong work ethic and determination quickly became evident. He was promoted to collections, and it wasn’t long before the company recognized his remarkable aptitude for computer programming. Selected for advanced training in Denver, Jerry embraced the opportunity and excelled. His natural talent for programming, combined with his steady leadership, led to increasing responsibilities. As he moved into management, those who worked under him flourished—he believed that when his team succeeded, everyone succeeded. Through dedication and integrity, he rose through the ranks to become District Manager.

After 20 successful years, Jerry embraced an early retirement opportunity and made a bold new move—relocating his family to St. George to pursue his entrepreneurial dream. There, he founded his own medical software company called Comtech Medical Systems, working from home for many years and building something he could truly call his own. His innovative mind and independent spirit defined this chapter of his life.

Eventually, Jerry purchased property on Beaver Mountain, where he built the cabin he had always dreamed of. Retirement suited him well. He found joy in exploring every dirt road across the mountain and throughout southern Utah, embracing each new adventure with curiosity and enthusiasm. He developed a love for fly fishing, spending peaceful hours casting lines into nearby lakes, fully at home in the quiet beauty of nature.

Jerry’s life was marked by dedication—to his family, his work, and the outdoor adventures that brought him joy.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Susan, his children, Jerry C Smith, Michelle (Shelley) Mikes, Steven G Smith, 10 grandchildren, and his siblings, Louree Klingonsmith, Steve Smith, Susann Barry, and Maurice Smith. He is preceded in death by his parents Iris and Cornell Smith

A Memorial will be held on Wednesday, February 25th at 3pm at McArthur Funeral Home 160 West 700 South St. George, Utah.