Mrs. Jerlean Smith, age 85, passed away Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at Trinity Health Ann Arbor Hospital. She was born June 1, 1938 in Jackson, Mississippi, the daughter of Frank and Bertha (McDonald) Hoye. She moved from Monroe to Ypsilanti in 1973, where she worked at the Ford Motor Company Rawsonville plant for 38 years. Jerlean joined Community Church of God and was an active parishioner for many years, serving on the usher board for a period of time.

Jerlean was an avid gardener. She loved working in her yard and all of the beautiful flowers and trees she planted. Family was so important to her. For many years, Christmas dinner was at her house. She loved having her family together for this special holiday and seeing all of the smiles on everyone's faces, sharing their love for one another.

Jerlean was preceded in death by her husband Timothy Smith, sons Clinton Epps and Christopher Epps; grandson Robert Henry, brothers Willie Hoye, Orlando Hoye and Robert Hoye; and sister Dorothy Hoye.

She leaves to cherish her memory sons Keith Epps and Floyd (Michele) Epps, both of Ypsilanti, MI, many grandchildren and great grandchildren, sisters Lillian Good of Ypsilanti, MI and Leonia Whirl of Miami, Florida; longtime special friend Carl Robinson of Detroit, MI and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

A funeral service will be held 11 am Saturday, June 1, 2024 at Stark Funeral Professionals. Pastor Darrell Thomas will officiate. Family Hour will begin at 10 am.