Jerry Wayne Smith

Jerry Wayne Smith, age 83, of Waco, Texas passed away peacefully on January 20, 2025. Jerry was surrounded by his family at the time of his passing. He was born October 3, 1941, in the town of West, Texas. Jerry was the son of the late Percy Edward and Eunice Muriel Smith.

Jerry is survived by the love of his life, Nancy Ann Smith, of 54 years, and his children; Denise Ann Smith Rollins and her husband William Rollins, and his son Jeffery Wayne Smith and his wife Robyn Smith. Jerry was affectionately known by his grandchildren and great-children as, “Papaw” or “J-Paw”. His grandchildren include Courtnie Rivera, David Rollins, Joshua Rollins, Haley Ann Smith, Jordyn Nicole Smith, Madison Malone, and Lillian Malone. He also had four beautiful great-grandchildren; Giovanni, Caleb, Ava, and his newest great-grandson Asher Houle. Jerry is also survived by his sister Marybeth Smith Bailey and too many friends and extended family to list. 

Jerry was a United States Air Force Veteran, athlete, and lover of nature. Jerry’s main passion was golf. He was rarely seen without a golf club in his hands or swinging away in the front yard. Jerry passed along his knowledge and love for golf to anyone who would listen. If you ever played a round of golf in and around Waco in the last 40 years you were sure to be there at the same time. Jerry’s closest friends were his golf buddies; William “Wild Bill” Schroeder, Joe Bradley Hestilow, Ronnie Kroll, Brad Kroll, Justin Mills, Mike Spradling, James Kuehl, Barry Hestilow, and so many others. 

Jerry was preceded in death by both of his parents, his sister Peggy Estelle Smith Kruse, and his brothers Charles Edward Smith (1943-1943) and William Hugh “Bill” Smith. 

Jerry will forever be remembered as one of the most caring and loving people, mentors, and father figures that blessed this earth. Jerry/Dad/ Papaw/J-Paw will forever be in our memories. 

A celebration of Jerry’s life will be planned and announced in the next few months.