Jennifer Leah Smith

Jennifer Leah Smith, 54, of Dennison, Ohio, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family after a courageous three-year battle with cancer on June 26, 2025. Born on January 27, 1971 in Dennison, Jennifer was the beloved daughter of the late Brian Craig Hillyer and Marie Antionette “Toni” (Green) Hillyer, who survives her. She was a proud graduate of Claymont High School, class of 1990.

On June 11, 1995, Jennifer married the love of her life, John Stephen Smith, with whom she recently celebrated 30 years of marriage. Together, they built a life full of devotion, laughter, and cherished memories. A devoted mother and grandmother, Jennifer's greatest joy came from her children and grandchildren. She is survived by her children, Alexis (Hayden) McAfee, Jake Smith, and Peyton Smith; and her adored grandchildren, Elliot and Hayes McAfee.

Jennifer was a homemaker, babysitter, and waitress at The Dennison Depot, where her warm smile and kind heart left a lasting impression on all who knew her. She also could be remembered working at Big Wheel. She loved swimming, cheering for the Miami Dolphins, the Cleveland Guardians, and the Ohio State Buckeyes, and spending time with her beloved "sister squad." Shopping trips with her twin sister Chris were among her favorite pastimes.

She is also survived by her twin sister, Christine (Steve) Mitchell; her sisters, Heather (Carl) Sowers and Pamela (Toby) Edwards; her parents-in-law, Jim and Stephanie Smith; her brothers- in- law, Ken (Bonnie) Smith, Mike (Rhonda) Smith, and Kiley (Carrie) Smith; and many nieces, nephews, and close friends who were like family.

Jennifer will be remembered for her strength, her unwavering love for her family, and her ability to find joy and connection in everyday moments. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. Jennifer’s family would like to thank Aultman Oncology and Cancer Center for their unwavering efforts and support throughout the duration of her three year battle, and Crossroads Hospice for their care in her final days.

Services for Jennifer will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, July 19, at Park Christian Church in Dennison with 2 hours of visitation held prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Jennifer’s memory to Aultman Cancer Center and/or Crossroads Hospice.