Jerry's first trip from Los Angeles to Tennessee in his own plane.

"I must admit that I was happy and proud to be asked to write this piece on Jerry Smith, but the responsibility and the recognition of the difficulty in representing the essence of the man quickly sobered the moment. It is important to understand that Jerry was a very private person. a quiet achiever.

It is the animation part of Jerry's and my life that crossed and it is from this aspect that I hope I am qualified to comment and trust that Jerry would agree and approve.

It was only three months ago that Jerry, his wife Madie and I were sitting in a hotel bar in Manila over a few drinks. Jerry was successful by any definition of the word, yet the unassuming qualities of the man would never allow him to wear the trappings of that success. Jerry was the one who would travel economy class when he could easily afford first class, he would drive the oldest car in the fleet (very fast I might add), and would always prefer beer to champagne.]

Above all, the thing that I remember most about Jerry is his wicked sense of humor. I think his sense of humor and timing put everything in context for him. You could be in the most stressful and dramatic situation and then, Jerry would save the moment with a throwaway comment and that cheeky Jerry Smith smirk.

I am assured by those that were close to him in his final days that his sense of humor stayed until the endI wouldn't have expected it any other way! Jerry will long be remembered around the globe by literally thousands of people and their families that have him to thank for their careers and their livelihood; he has given them a future and this is the legacy that will assuredly live on.

We take our hat off to you Jerry, you'll be sorely missed by many!"

-Wayne Dearing
CEO, Philippine Animation Group

Left to right, Jerry with his sons Terry and Larry, both of whom were trained in the animation industry by their father.

I met Jerry Smith in the Philippines in 1985 and my life has never been the same since. He told me his life story and it inspired me. He taught me everything I needed to know about animation and this experience paved the way for me and my family to live in California. So I can say that I am where I am because I met Jerry.

Jerry worked hard and played hard. He made a choice to be positive with life. He never turned away from hardship and any obstacle. He had focus, intelligence, and vast knowledge of the animation business. He recognized everyone's effort and was compassionate to his employees. He loved his job.

He also had good business sense. Some say he earned too much. I say, he should! He worked hard for it. He was from the working class. He rolled up his sleeves, got his feet wet and worked late nights shooting camera or viewing retakes with the production crew. He didn't just delegate. So yes, he did earn a lot. He earned a lot of friends, loyalty and respect.

I thought that I could not write a tribute for Jerry because when he died, a big chunk of me died with him. Then I remembered how I used to tell Jerry that someday I will be able to repay him for all the things he's done for me. And I think this is the right time to do that. I love you, friend."

-Jo Harn