Jesse Albert Smith

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Our beloved father, grandfather and great-grandfather "Papa" , rejoined his beloved wife, "Jo", in front of the Pearly Gates where she had waited for him but a few short months. He left this earth peacefully, at home, surrounded by his loving family on Tuesday, July 12, 2011.

Jess was born the only son of Jesse Walter and Phyllis Francis Smith in Ogden, Utah along with older sisters, Phyllis and Violet. His mother tragically passed away in a car accident in 1940. His father never remarried, and passed away in 1948 following a long illness. After the death of his father, Jess was raised by his two older sisters, Phyllis and Violet.

Jess joined the U.S. Navy where he served during the Korean Conflict and Vietnam War, and was awarded the Bronze Star. He retired after 20 years. He later worked at Hill AFB, retiring in 1991.

Jess married his soul-mate and love of his life, Mary Jo Smith. They spent decades fishing, water skiing, ATV riding and golfing. They loved their Star Valley Home, where Jess was the golf course Marshall for many years.

Jess is survived by a son, Phill J. of Brigham City; and daughter, Judy (Ron) Bell of Clinton; and sister, Violet Burch, Layton; grandchildren, Becky (Tim) DeLeon, Phenix City, AL; Adam (Brittany) Gallegos, Ogden, and Jacob Gallegos, Clearfield. He was papa "Pappy" to great-grandchildren, Gabriel, Ethan and Lucas DeLeon and Gavin and Aubrey Gallegos.

He was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Phyllis, and wife, Mary Jo Smith.

The family wished to thank Vista Hospice Care and especially Dr. Brannick Riggs and John Steed for making Jess feel he was special in many ways. The family also wishes to thank Jess''s closest friends Ron and Sharon Adams, Gary and Deaun Ellison, and Bob and Sheryl Manning.

Private services are being held. Please contact the family for more information.

The family respectfully requests that donations be made to the Ogden Rescue Mission in lieu of flowers.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to Lindquist''s Roy Mortuary.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.lindquistmortuary.com