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Jerry Wendell Smith "Jerry Bud" of Prague, Oklahoma, passed away suddenly on Monday, February 16, 2026, in Prague at the age of 85. He was born on November 21, 1940, in Prague, Oklahoma, to Charles Emory and Helen (Coleman) Smith.
Jerry Bud grew up in Prague and graduated from Centerview High School in 1958. Following high school, he began his plumbing career in Oklahoma City, where his strong work ethic and natural skill quickly became evident. During the start of his career, he was drafted and proudly served his country in the United States Army. Upon his return from the army, he met the love of his life, Sharon Lee Thompson, in Oklahoma City, and the couple married in 1967. Not long after, an opportunity arose to purchase Spoon Pump back in his hometown. Jerry Bud took that opportunity, and shortly after, he and Sharon would move to Prague. That same year, he founded Smith Plumbing and Repair. Together, Jerry and Sharon would grow a business rooted in dedication, integrity, and service to their community while raising their two children, Misty and Wendell.
Jerry Bud was widely known for his hard work, dependable service, and generous heart. He took great pride in helping others and was a familiar and trusted face to countless families throughout the area. He never met a stranger and was known to help those going through rough times in life.
Though his plumbing work kept him busy, he cherished the moments he spent outdoors in God's creation. He enjoyed hunting and fishing, especially pheasant and quail hunting, and spent many years raising and training his own bird dogs.
Most importantly, however, Jerry Bud loved his family. He spent many hours with his children, cheering them on at their sporting events, teaching them the plumbing trade, hauling horses, and always encouraging them to work hard. Known as "Pop" to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, he likewise spent many hours at their sporting events, taking them hunting, having them work by his side, or helping them with his expertise as a master plumber whenever they had questions of their own. The virtues of hard work, sacrificial generosity, and wit marked Jerry Bud's life. His family and the entire community of Prague will miss him greatly.
Jerry is preceded in death by his parents, Helen and Charlie Smith; his brother, Bob Smith; his sisters, Carly Day, Mary Ann Gregory,and Mindy Calger; his brothers-in-law, Royce Ellison, TJ Simek, and Deryle Schima; his sister-in-law, Linda Smith; and his great-grandson, Samuel Novotny.
Those left to cherish his memory include his loving wife of more than 50 years, Sharon Lee Smith; his daughter Misty Novotny (husband Louis); his son, Wendell Smith (wife Carol); four grandchildren, Michael Novotny (wife Jennifer), Stephanie Novotny, Dillion Smith (wife Ashley), and Jaxon Smith; siblings, JoyceEllison, Francis Simek, Sue Schima and Sammy Smith; his great-grandchildren, Levi, Priscilla, Ruth, Joseph, and one on the way; along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and many friends whose lives were touched by his life and work.
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