Terry Jo Smith

Terry Jo Smith, 59, of Bennington, Nebraska, formerly of Overton died Friday, February 25, 2011, at Select Specialty Hospital in Omaha. He was born April 12, 1951, at Lexington, Nebraska, to Woodrow and Gladys (Miller) Smith. Terry attended school in Overton and graduated from Overton High School in 1969. He worked on the family farm and grocery store in Overton. Terry enlisted in the United States Army in 1971 where he was an Air Traffic Controller. He was honorably discharged in 1974. He went on to receive a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology from the University of Nebraska-Kearney. He received additional degrees from the University of Nebraska-Omaha with a Masters Degree in Fresh Water Biology and a Bachelor’s in Geology. He also received his teaching certification from the University Of Nebraska-Omaha. Terry was united in marriage to Pat Meier on December 27, 1971, in Elm Creek, Nebraska. Their daughter Sara was born in January 1986. He was employed by the University Of Nebraska at Omaha from 1980 until 1999 when he retired due to health problems. While at the University, Terry was caretaker of the Allwine Prairie Preserve, manager of the Greenhouse and was the Radiation Safety Officer for the Biology Department. Terry was intelligent, talented and had a great memory. When he was able, he enjoyed to golf, hunt and fish. He was an accomplished woodworker and furniture refinisher. Terry also could grow a wonderful garden and dabbled in photography. He also loved children, especially babies. Member of the American Legion Post #277 in Overton, Nebraska. Survivors include his wife of 39 years: Pat Smith of Bennington, Nebraska One daughter: Sara Smith of Holdrege, Nebraska Two Brothers: Bob and wife Suzanne Smith of Olathe, Kansas Tim and wife Suzanne Smith of Overton, Nebraska One Sister: Sherry and husband Tom Brennan of Overton, Nebraska Nieces: Michele Smith of Lincoln, Nebraska and Brandi and husband Eric Krakowski of Omaha, Nebraska Nephew: James Brennan and wife Heather of Overton, Nebraska Niece-in-law: Billie Jo Smith of Denton, Nebraska Mother-in-law: Joan Meier of Kearney, Nebraska Eight grand-nieces and nephews and numerous treasured extended family and friends. Terry was preceded in death by his parents, father-in-law, Bob Meier and nephew, Aaron Smith. Funeral Services will be held Tuesday, March 1, 2011, at 2:00 p.m. at the Overton Christian Church with Pastor Dean Pofahl, officiating. Burial with Military Honors will be in the Immaculate Conception Cemetery in Elm Creek. Visitation will be held Monday, February 28, 2011, from 6-8 p.m. at the Overton Funeral Home. Memorials are suggested to American Diabetes Association, Overton Christian Church Or Donor’s Choice. Overton Funeral Home in Overton is in charge of arrangements. Expressions of Sympathy may be shared with family via: reynoldslovefuneralhome.com