Edward Jerome Smith

Edward Jerome Smith , a cherished father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother, passed away peacefully on June 1, 2024, surrounded by loved ones. Born on July 17, 1926, in Bucyrus, Ohio, to Cecil and Vera (Fawley) Smith, Ed led a life marked by dedication, love, and a profound sense of community.

Ed graduated from Bucyrus High School before earning his B.S. in Accounting from Kent State University, where he was a proud member of Delta Sigma Pi. His professional career flourished at BF Goodrich, where he served as the controller for the Aerospace division, retiring after a commendable 33-year tenure.

In 1955, Ed married Jean (Underwood) Smith, with whom he welcomed their son, Gary, in 1957. After Jean's untimely passing in 1961, Ed found love again with Ruth (Swartz) Smith. They married in 1963 and celebrated the birth of their son Gregory in 1964. Together, Ed and Ruth built a warm and loving home in Bath, Ohio, where they resided for nearly 30 years. After retiring, they enjoyed the best of both worlds, splitting their time between Akron and Bonita Springs, Florida. In 2019, Ed moved to Fountain Hills, Arizona, where he spent his remaining years.

A passionate golfer, Ed also delighted in playing bocce, bridge, and fishing. He and Ruth traveled the world together, creating cherished memories on their many international adventures. Their faith was an integral part of their lives, being active members of Westminister Presbyterian in Akron and Vanderbilt Presbyterian in Bonita Springs.

Ed’s final days were spent with his son Gary and daughter-in-law Cindy by his side, receiving compassionate care from Fountain View Village Memory Care and Hospice of the Valley, Phoenix.

He is survived by his sons, Gary (Cindy) of Fountain Hills, Arizona, and Greg (Kim) of Long Grove, Illinois; his beloved grandchildren, Jeremy (Tiffany) Smith, along with their children Jacob and Mackenzie of Canfield, Ohio, and Alyssa and Evan of Long Grove, Illinois. He also leaves behind four step-grandchildren, Kyle (Stephanie), Logan (Eternity), Evan (Shannon), and Connor, and two step-great-grandchildren, Jack and Keith. Ed is also survived by his siblings, Ann Niemann, Barbara Madonio, and Cecil (Woodie Jean) Smith, and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wives Jean and Ruth, and his sister Mary McFarland.

A funeral service to honor Ed's life will be held on THURSDAY, June 13, at noon at the Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel, 85 N. Miller Rd., Akron, Ohio 44333, with Pastor William Meyer officiating. Burial will follow at Rose Hill Burial Park. Visitation for friends and family will be held at the funeral home at 11 a.m., immediately preceding the service.

To Share a Memory, Send a Condolence, or Light a Candle, please visit the Tribute Wall at www.billowfuneralhomes.com (Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel)

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests tributes be made in honor of Ed to Hospice of the Valley , 1510 E. Flower St., Phoenix, AZ 85014 or https://hov.org/donate/donate-now/ in recognition of their exceptional care.

Edward Jerome Smith’s legacy of love, kindness, and integrity will live on in the hearts of all who were privileged to know him.

Services in care of The Billow Funeral Homes & Crematory, Fairlawn Chapel, 85 N Miller Road, Akron, OH  44333.