Candidate: Jerry Smith

Jerry Smith was born in Taneytown, Md. His parents soon relocated Jerry and his five siblings to Moultrie area, Georgia. Unfortunately, Jerry’s father passed away when he was quite young. Needing to help his family with expenses, Jerry then began working for his friend and mentor, Mr. Truett while he was still in school. His summers were spent chopping tobacco in Canada and then returning to Moultrie in the fall to attend school. During school time, he returned to working at the the Truett Feed and Seed, and assisting Mr. Truett on his farm. Mr Truett became a surrogate father and mentor for Jerry, forging a lifelong friendship that also included passing time fishing together. Those years taught Jerry the value of a dollar and the pride that comes from a job well done.

After graduating from Moultrie HighSchool in 1968, Jerry proudly enlisted in the United States Army. Serving as a member of the 82nd Airborne, he became proficient at parachuting obtaining military awards, such as the National Defense Service Medal, Parachute Badge, Good Conduct Medal, Letter of Commendation and Drivers Badge.

Upon completion of his military service, Jerry began working as an Engineer for the Norfolk Railroad for the next 23 years. Jerry taught the Operation Lifesaver Classes for Norfolk, visiting schools and local club organizations to teach railroad safety information. Retired from the railroad, Jerry returned to farming. Always a bundle of energy, he became involved with the cattle industry, competing in many livestock shows for the FAA with his son, Junior.

Jerry and his wife Cathy shared a love of Mexico Beach, spending many vacations here before buying their home in 2015. Jerry instantly became involved in the community and became a helper and a doer. Jerry’s outgoing personality helps him to make friends wherever he goes. He is always quick to offer a friendly smile and a helping hand. As one longtime friend commented, “ Jerry is a fine, honest, hardworking man. If I ever have troubles, he is the one I want on my team.”

Jerry has served as a loyal council member since 2019. While politics was never his ambition, he did answer the call to serve his community post Hurricane Michael. Jerry has been dedicated to restoring and protecting Mexico Beach since the day after the storm. He has worked tirelessly to lift residents, provide them with guidance all the while learning from his city colleagues. Jerry is gratefully, humbly, and respectfully asking for your vote with an assurance that he will continue his efforts to provide opportunity and results. Together, we are MEXICO BEACH STRONG!