Whitesville- Jerry Lyle Smith
Jerry L. Smith, formerly of 183 Shamrock Road in Rexville, passed away on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at Elderwood in Hornell.
Born and raised in Whitesville, Jerry was a proud 1967 graduate of Whitesville Central School, where he competed in cross country, basketball, and baseball. After graduation, he returned home to take over the family’s dairy farm, beginning a lifelong devotion to Registered Holsteins. A respected member of the Holstein community, Jerry bred more than 30 Excellent cows during his career. His greatest pride came from Highcroft Absolute Lily-Red, who achieved world-renowned status when she was named the Red & White Holstein Grand Champion at the 2019 World Dairy Expo. Jerry loved showing cattle throughout New York State and earned many trophies along the way. Over the course of his farming career, he also conducted three successful sales of high-caliber Holsteins, concluding with his retirement sale in 2014.
Jerry’s life extended far beyond the farm. He was active in his community as a bowler, fast-pitch softball player, and New York State baseball umpire. His service included roles as a Town of West Union board member, Whitesville Agway board member, and more than 50 years as a member of the New York Holstein Association. He was deeply committed to the Allegany-Steuben Holstein Club, serving as a board member, chairing numerous sales, and lending a hand with whatever needed doing at the beloved “Club Barn.”
Above all, Jerry was a devoted father and stepfather. He cherished his son, Brandon, and took pride in helping raise Katrina, Glenn, Jimmy, Shelbi, and their families. He taught them the values he lived by—hard work, responsibility, and compassion for animals.
Jerry is survived by his son, Brandon (Jen) Smith of Granville, Ohio; two grandchildren, Isabella and Jackson; and his sister, Georgeanna Smith of Stanford, Montana.
Friends will be received on Friday, November 28, 2025, at the Letro-McIntosh-Spink Funeral Home, Inc., 24 Genesee Parkway, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., at which time a funeral service will be held. The Rev. Tim Armstrong will officiate. Burial will follow in the Whitesville Rural Cemetery. Online condolences may be shared at www.letromcintoshspinkfuneralhome.com
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