Gail Martha Smith

Gail Martha Smith, 78, of Traverse City, passed away peacefully at French Manor Terra on Friday, July 4th, 2025, with her daughter by her side. Gail was born on June 17, 1947, in Detroit, Michigan, to the late Raymond and Elizabeth “Betty” (Finney) Gustafson. She married the love of her life, the late Jack Stanley Smith, on October 25, 1969, in Traverse City. Together, they lovingly raised two children, Jason and Kendra. Gail earned her bachelor's degree from Michigan State University and her master’s degree in teaching from Eastern Michigan University and spent many years as a devoted educator. She retired from Willow Hill Elementary School in 2006, leaving behind a lasting legacy of dedication and care for her students. Teaching was more than a profession to Gail — it was a calling. She also served as treasurer of the teachers’ union, always advocating for her fellow educators. She and Jack spent many years as volunteers at the National Cherry Festival. Jack served as President in 1989, and Gail proudly embraced her role as Event Director for Children's events. They were also both active members of the Traverse City Elks Lodge #323, and volunteers for several years at the NMC Barbecue, another community tradition they held dearly. Gail was a longtime member of the Presbyterian Church and enjoyed Pastor Homer's sermons and her church family over the years. In her free time, she enjoyed golf, reading, knitting, crossword puzzles, and most of all, spending time with her family, whom she adored. After retirement, Gail and Jack wintered in Fort Myers, Florida, where they enjoyed the sunshine, companionship, and many new friendships. Gail was a devoted wife, loving mother, wonderful grandmother, treasured friend, and generous volunteer. She will be deeply missed by all who had the joy of knowing her. She is survived by her children, Jason (Kasie) Smith of Ada, Kendra (William) Balderach of Traverse City; grandchildren; Jackson, Spencer, Cooper, Oliver, Cy and Lucy; mother-in-law Florence Johnson, brother-in-law Kerry (Leslie) Smith of Charlevoix; nieces, nephews, cousins, and many close friends and neighbors. She is preceded in death by her beloved husband Jack, her parents, sister Susan Axtell, and brother-in-law Rick Smith. A visitation will be held from 10-11am on Monday, July 14, 2025, at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home, with a memorial service beginning at 11:00 a.m. A luncheon will follow in the gardens of Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home. She will be privately laid to rest with Jack at Grand Traverse Memorial Gardens. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Alzheimer’s Association of Michigan or the Interlochen Public Library. Kindly share thoughts and memories with her family at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com. The Family would like to extend a heartfelt Thank you to the incredible staff at French Manor Terra and Hospice of Michigan for their loving care.

Gail Martha Smith

June 17, 1947 - July 4, 2025