Cherie Marie Smith, 86, of Salt Lake City, Utah, passed away peacefully on April 15, 2026. Born on July 10, 1939, in Salt Lake City, she lived life on her own terms, independent in spirit, true to herself, and creative to her core. She found deep joy in her garden, her home, and her painting, and had a gift for making spaces feel cared for and alive.
Cherie was a woman of strong convictions who was never afraid to speak her mind. She held her progressive beliefs with pride and passion and stood up for herself and what she believed in with a fearlessness that those who knew her will not soon forget. She was not a woman who faded into the background.
Animals were among Cherie’s truest companions. Throughout her life, her cats brought her daily comfort and delight, and she took a special pleasure in the pets belonging to her sons, always eager to hear about them and welcome them into her world.
Cherie is survived by her sons, Jay Smith (Connie) and David Smith (Mary); her sister, Lise Reese; her sister-in-law, Judy Murphy; and extended family and friends who will carry her memory with them. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, David Jerome Smith, her brother, Michael Murphy, and her daughter-in-law, Diana Smith.
A Memorial Service for Cherie will be on Monday, June 1, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City. Guests are encouraged to use the parking on the north side of the building.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly welcomes memorial contributions to the University of Utah College of Nursing in support of the Cherie Smith Scholarship, established in her honor.
Cherie Smith Scholarship
