GERALD SMITH OF SWISHER HILL PASSES AWAY

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Gerald Smith passes away

Gerald Smith of Swisher Hill passed away Saturday, April 23.

His widow is Linda Sturm Smith. Brenda Sturm Vandetta, Frank’s wife, is his sister-in-law. Frankie Vandetta is his nephew. There are FIVE Frank Vandettas so it’s easily to get them mixed up.

Gerry was a Marion County teacher and later a Veteran Representative for Marion County Job Service. Gerry earned a Silver Star and Purple Heart during his two tours of the Vietnam War.

His parents were Dr. G. Wayne Smith and Mary McGuire Smith, whose other children were Leslie Smith James, married to Dr. James Smith; Margaret Smith Bracket; Judy Smith Fragoso, living in Florida with husband Ralph Fragoso; Don Smith, living in Pennsylvania with wife Susan; and Larry Smith, living in Fairmont.

Gerry’s obituary:

Gerald W. Smith, 81, of Fairmont (Swisher Hill) passed away early Saturday morning April 23, 2022 at his residence after a short illness. He was born in Clarksburg on March 6, 1941 son of the late Dr. G. Wayne and Mary McGuire Smith.

He retired from Marion County Job Service as a Veteran Representative. He formerly worked for the Marion County Board of Education as a teacher.

He was a member of the V.F.W. 629 and served two tours in Vietnam and received the Silver Star and Purple Heart.

He is survived by his wife Linda K. Sturm Smith. He is also survived by three sisters Leslie (Dr. James) Frank & Family, Margaret (Jeff) Bracket & Family, Judy (Ralph) Fragoso & Family of Florida and two brothers Don (Susan) Smith & Family of Pennsylvania and Larry Smith & Family of Fairmont.

He is also survived by his mother-in-law Helen Jean Sturm of Swisher Hill, sister-in-law Brenda (Frank) Vandetta of Monongah, brother-in-law Bill (Susan) Sturm of Florida, and nephew Frankie (Stephanie) Vandetta of Monongah. He is also survived by his beloved dog Zoey.

In addition to his parents he is preceded in death by his step-son Bruce Johnstone, father-in-law William Sturm, niece Laura Marlowe and sisters-in-law Linda Smith and Suzanne Smith.

Friends may call at Ross Funeral Home 801 Fairmont Avenue Fairmont on Wednesday from 12-2:00 P.M. In keeping with Gerald’s wishes he will be cremated after the visitation. Immediately following the visitation family and friends are invited to a dinner at the Everson Baptist Church.  Inurnment will take place at the West Virginia National Cemetery at a later date.

In Lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Everson Baptist Church C/O Tamara Holt 1384 Rock Union Road Fairmont, WV 26554.

The family would like to thank Amedisys Hospice and his sister-in-law Brenda Vandetta for all the care given during his illness.

Condolences may be sent to www.rossfh.com.