AUBURN- Gerald I “Jerry” Smith, 92, of Auburn passed away Sunday September 13, 2015 at the Rose Monahan Hospice Residence after a brief illness.

Gerald is survived by his sister, Birdie Schofield of Holden, two sons, Stephen C. of Maynard MA and Kenneth I of N. Grafton MA, four grandchildren, Sheryl Spafford, Brian Smith, Zachary Smith, and Jesse Smith, and seven great-grandchildren. He also leaves his long-time friend Margaret (Peg) Lapinsky of Auburn. Gerald is predeceased by his brother, Russell and former wife, Marjorie.

Jerry was born in Port Williams, Nova Scotia, Canada on September 28, 1922, son of the late Ralph K and Flora (Bauckman) Smith. At age 5, his family moved to Auburn, where he became a life-long resident. Jerry worked on a farm as a youngster (a profession he dearly loved) before proudly serving in the US Army, Armored Division, in N. Africa, Corsica, and Italy during WW II, working primarily with tanks. After returning to Auburn, Jerry worked for 45 years as a machinist at Reed & Prince Mfg. Co. in Worcester until retirement.

Gerald was a lifelong member of Auburn Grange # 60, as well as the Joel H Prouty Masonic Lodge and the Chester P. Tuttle American Legion Post # 279, all in Auburn. Jerry loved working outdoors with his hands and enjoyed his first home, a small 3-acre farm where he raised chickens for an egg route and also boarded horses of all sizes. He was known for his excellence in building stone walls, wood carving, and his interest in animal husbandry. He also exhibited a keen sense of humor, as attested by his many friends at his last residence, Pakachoag Village in Auburn.

Friends may visit with Jerry’s family on Thursday, September 24, 2015 from 6-8 PM in the BRITTON-WALLACE FUNERAL HOME, 91 Central St, Auburn. Burial will be private in Hillside Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial donation can be made to Veterans Inc, 69 Grove Street, Worcester, MA 01605. To leave a note of condolence for Jerry’s family or to view his Book of Memories, please visit, www.brittonfuneralhomes.com