Jerry L. Smith was born in Macon, MS on October 23, 1961, to Eva K. Smith (Charles Earl Smith) and Robert Earl Hopkins.

He married Yolanda Smith of Macon, MS on June 26, 1999.

Jerry was known for being a hardworker, an excellent hunter, and
his kind an loving personality, and being a die hard sports fan of the Noxubee County Tigers, Tigerettes and the New Orleans Saints. He enjoyed going to all of Noxubee games with his two best friends Rufus Sanders and Freddie B. Tate.

Jerry L. Smith, affectionately known as "Bait" transitioned peacefully on  July 12, 2025 in Birmingham, AL at UAB St. Vincents Hospital.

He was preceded in death by his fathers, Charles Earl Smith and Robert Earl Hopkins and his brother, Lester Smith.

Left to cherish his memories are his mother, Eva K. Smith of Macon, MS; son, Jeremiah Short of Houston, TX; daughter, Jayberella Davidson (Charles); granddaughters, Carliyah & Jaliyah Davidson all of Columbus, MS; sisters, Linda Gilkey (Henry) of Macon, MS; Christine Mays of Orlando, FL; brothers, Charles & Willie Smith (Cheryl) both of Atlanta, GA; a special friend, Joyce Scales of Brooksville, MS; 4 step-children, 4 step-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends that loved him dearly.

Jerry's legacy of family and love will forever remain in the hearts of those that knew him.

Rest in peace, Jerry L. Smith. You will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.