Shirley Ann Smith, 88, of Coldwater, passed away Wednesday, April 24, 2024 at LakeHouse Assisted Living.
Shirley was born June 19, 1935, to Russell and Mary (Norton) Walter in Steuben County, Indiana. She married the love of her life, Gerald Smith, on August 17, 1951, who preceded her in death July 24, 2023.
Shirley worked as a nurse aid at the Community Health Center of Branch County until she became a fulltime bookkeeper for her husband’s business, Smith Heating and Cooling. After their retirement, Gerald and Shirley spent the last 30 years living in Florida before Gerlad’s passing in 2023. She enjoyed traveling with Gerald in their motorhome, gardening, needle point, and spending time with her family.
Shirley is survived by her children, Kenneth (Ann) of Kalamazoo, Diana (Joseph) Bregg, Jr. of Coldwater, Patricia (Bradley) Rockey of Coldwater; her siblings Jack Walter, Sue (Andy) Miller; her grandchildren Timothy (Jenni) Smith, Joseph Bregg III, Jennifer Bregg, Cody (Nicole) Rockey, Cheyenne Rockey; her great grandchildren Mara Smith, Natasi Smith, Lola Jean Rockey, and Maxwell Rockey. In addition to her husband, Shirley was preceded in death by her siblings Gladys Sommers, and James Walter.
Cremation has taken place. Interment of the couple will be held at Fort Custer National Cemetery at a later date. Arrangements are being cared for by Dutcher Funeral Home.
Gerald Smith passed away Monday, July 24, 2023, at the age of 94 in Florida. Gerald was born in Quincy and moved to Florida 30 years ago. He owned and operated Smith Heating and Cooling. He was an honorably discharged veteran of the United States Army, loved helping people, gardening, being outside and enjoying nature, traveling in his motorhome with his beloved wife, Shirley and just talking to people. He was also a member of the American Legion and the DAV.
Gerald is survived by his children, Kenneth (Ann) of Kalamazoo, Diana (Joseph) Bregg, Jr. of Coldwater, Patricia (Bradley) Rockey of Coldwater; his brother Ronald Smith; his grandchildren Timothy (Jenni) Smith, Joseph Bregg III, Jennifer Bregg, Cody (Nicole) Rockey, Cheyenne Rockey; his great grandchildren Mara Smith, Natasi Smith, Lola Jean Rockey, and Maxwell Rockey.
Gerald was a kind and loving man, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather and will be truly missed by all who knew him.
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