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.
