Gerald D. “Jerry” Smith, age 59, of Dubuque, passed away on Wednesday, August 19, 2026 at home.  In keeping with Jerry’s wishes, there will be a Celebration of his Life on September 6, 2026 from noon until 4:00 p.m. at the Shiras Memorial Pavilion in Eagle Point Park.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, is assisting his family.

Jerry was born on January 29, 1967, in Dubuque, the son of Thomas and Betty (Dryer) Smith.

He attended school in Dubuque and graduated from Hempstead High School, class of 1986.  Jerry married Shelley Jo Kopp on August 10, 2002 at Eagle Point Park in Dubuque.
He was a “Jack of all trades” and had many talents.  Most recently he was employed as a groundskeeper at Lacoma Golf Course.  When he had some free time, he enjoyed hunting, fishing and golfing.  Jerry enjoyed his morning donuts at Donut Boy, watching NASCAR, and was an avid Green Bay Packers fan.

Those left to cherish Jerry’s memory include

his wife, Shelley Smith, Dubuque;

his 2 sons,
John (Cassie) Smith, Dubuque, IA
and David (Nikkia Kramer) Smith, Dubuque, IA;

2 grandchildren;

his siblings,
Jim Smith, Dubuque, IA
and Brenda Smith, Boyceville, WI;

and several nieces and nephews.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents.

Jerry’s Family would like to thank St. Croix Hospice, especially Keshia, for all of the amazing and compassionate care they provided.

Cards and memorials in Jerry’s memory may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Gerald D. Smith Family.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.behrfuneralhome.com