Jeniel Erikson Smith
September 8, 1937 - June 26, 2026
Jeniel died peacefully on Friday, June 26, 2026. She was born in Salt Lake City to Alvin R. and Annie H. D. Erikson. Jeniel met Tracy D. Smith on a blind date, and they were married on January 26, 1968.
She graduated from South High School and the University of Utah, taught Physical Education at Highland High School. Later, Jeniel went to Design School, eventually becoming a Certified Kitchen Designer. During her career, she was affiliated with the National Kitchen & Bath Association and served as the Utah Chapter President.
In addition to her career, Jeniel contributed time to the Utah Heritage Foundation, Shriners Hospital for Children Salt Lake City, and was proud to serve as a member of the City of Holladay Interfaith Council. She was a long-time active member of First Congregational Church. She also served on various Boards of the National Association of Congregational Chistian Churches. Jeniel was also an active member of Chapter “O” PEO. Her passion and blessing was serving as an Adjunct Chaplain at Primary Children’s Medical Center.
Jeniel and Tracy enjoyed traveling to many parts of the world. The highlight of every year was traveling to the Pacific Northwest for the annual Smith Family vacation at the Beach Cottage in Cannon Beach, OR.
Jeniel claims to have the best friends ever, and their regular gatherings were always loads of fun.
Her greatest joy and gift was to be “Mom” to Jennifer Lyn and Kiersten Ann, and stepmom to Jeffery B., Clark T., and Susan M.
Jeniel is survived by her children and stepchildren: Jennifer, Kiersten, Jeff (Nikki), Clark (Leslie), and Susan (Doug). She is also survived by “the best grandchildren ever”: Ashton (Rikka), Aubyn, Emma-Billy, Jack (Sav), Ashley (Mike), Paige (James), Clark (Tiffany), Brian (Helen), Tanner, Spencer (Julia), Sam, Gray, and Matt (Annie), and nine adorable great-grandchildren with one excitedly on the way.
She is also survived by her siblings: sister Deveda (Don) Vernon, and brother Norm Erikson.
Jeniel was preceded in death by her husband, Tracy D. Smith, whom she missed every day, her older sister, Vanette E. Seward, and her sister-in-law, Cindy Erikson.
The family would like to express their deep gratitude to the staff and care teams at The Auberge at Aspen Park and Ovation Hospice.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 11th from 3-5 pm at Starks Funeral Parlor (3651 S 900 E, SLC 84106). There will be a special tribute to Jeniel at 4:30pm.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to Utah State Chapter P.E.O. Click on “P.E.O. Utah Donations,” to download the form and mail in a check. On the form, select the Utah State Chapter Scholarship Fund of your choice, circle “In memory of”, write in “Jeniel E. Smith,” followed by writing in Chapter “O.” ) or First Congregational Church.
In Loving Memory
I met Janelle when I was in high school and was best friends with her eldest daughter, Jennifer. I remember how beautiful, talented, classy, and loving a mother she was. She was even the reason I took interior design in high school. Some people honor their parents with words. Others honor them with actions. I had the privilege of witnessing the incredible love between you and your mom over these past years. You put your own life on hold, leaving behind your home, your career, your children, and everything familiar to be by her side when she needed you most. Every day you gave her your patience, your compassion, your dignity, and your heart. It was beautiful to watch, and even more beautiful to see how much she loved and appreciated you in return. Not everyone has the opportunity—or the willingness—to make such extraordinary sacrifices for someone they love. You did, without expecting recognition or reward. That kind of devotion speaks for itself and becomes part of a person’s legacy. The peace and comfort she had in your presence said more than words ever could. What you gave her during the final chapter of her life was an immeasurable gift. Love isn’t measured by what we inherit or what we receive. It’s measured by what we’re willing to give. And you gave your mom one of the greatest gifts a daughter ever could: your time, your strength, your unwavering love, and the comfort of knowing she was never alone. I hope, in time, you find peace in knowing that no one can ever take away what truly mattered. The kindness you showed, the sacrifices you made, and the love you shared are things that will always remain. Remembering Janelle, may we also remember that the greatest measure of love is found in what we do for one another when it matters most. Acts of selfless love leave an imprint that time cannot erase. Janelle, may you rest in peace, knowing you were deeply loved. And to my friend, may you always find comfort in knowing that no one can diminish the extraordinary gift you gave your mother. Those who witnessed your devotion saw love in its purest form, and that is something that will never be forgotten.
Kimberley J Burke
Holladay, UT