Jerry Lee Smith

Jerry Smith, 59, of Oskaloosa, passed away Tuesday, July 16, 2024, at his home in Oskaloosa. Jerry Lee Smith was born May 15, 1965, in Oskaloosa to Richard and Peggy (Halliburton) Smith. He attended Oskaloosa Schools and graduated with the class of 1983. After his education, Jerry began working for Musco. He was a lighting technician and drove some of Musco’s mobile lighting trucks. Jerry worked at many different stadiums and event venues; some highlights include the Olympics, the White House, Notre Dame Football games, and even some movies, including Varsity Blues, for which he is listed in the credits. After his time at Musco, Jerry began working in the concrete business, eventually purchasing his concrete pump truck. Jerry enjoyed the concrete business and had a real knack for all aspects of his business. After retiring from concrete work, Jerry began working for the Oskaloosa High School as a custodian, where he was currently employed. Jerry was blessed to become a father. One of the loves of his life is his daughter, Saydee Smith. Jerry met Katina Sauer while out on the town and always bragged to his buddies how “he was going to marry her someday.” While Katina was in New York City on a business trip, she was visiting the top of the Empire State Building. Her phone had not worked all day, but as soon as she reached the top, she received a call from Jerry. He was a true gentleman pursuing Katina, and Jerry was a man of his word. He and Katina were married on July 19, 2008 in Oskaloosa. Jerry was an avid fisherman, loving to go flathead fishing on the river in his boat. Katina enjoyed fishing more in the ponds but would humor him and go on boat rides with him. They spent many weekends camping and riding his motorcycle as well. Jerry was a friend to everyone. He truly did not know a stranger. He would help anyone in any way he knew how. Jerry’s true love was his family, especially his daughter Saydee and his wife Katina. He is survived by his wife, Katina Smith of Oskaloosa; his daughter, Saydee Smith of Arizona; his father and step-mother, Richard (Kathryn) Smith of Pleasantville, Iowa; his sister, Sherri (Matt) Gillette of Arizona; his parents-in-law, Larry (Barb) Sauer of Alabama and Karen Sauer of Oskaloosa; a brother-in-law, Kristofer (Tammy) Sauer of New Sharon; his step-sons, Jordan Lamb of Coralville and Drea Lamb of North Liberty; his nephews, Andy, Joe and Jack Gillette; two uncles; Rick Leydens of Eddyville and Earl Shaffer of Oskaloosa; and an aunt, Regina Bunnell. He also leaves behind countless friends, whom he considered to be as close as family. Jerry was preceded in death by his mother, Peggy Smith. Memorial Services for Jerry will be held at 3:00 p.m., Friday, July 19, 2024, at Langkamp Funeral Chapel, with Rev. Jon Nelson of Central Church officiating. Visitation will be held from 1 p.m. to service time on Friday. Memorial contributions can be made to Katina Smith and will be designated at a later time.

Jerry Lee Smith

May 15, 1965 - July 16, 2024