Jerry G. “Chef Dirt” Smith

Jerry Gilbert Smith, “aka Chef Dirt” age 84, of Harbinger, NC, died on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, in Sentara Albemarle Hospital with family by his side.  Born March 29, 1941 in Hurley, VA, Jerry was the son of the late Harold and Virginia Smith Cox. He was also predeceased by his brother, Terry Smith.

Jerry is survived by his wife of 60 years Rebecca D. Smith; his daughters Melissa Cade and husband Kevin of Johnson City, TN, and Sharon Swarmer and husband Jimmy of Kitty Hawk, NC; his brother, Harold Smith; his sister, Geraldine Quesenberry; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was adored by his grandchildren: Andrew, Stacey, Cindy, Alexandra, and Anna.  Jerry also leaves behind four great-grandchildren: Lynn Leigh, Willow, Porter, and Colton.

Jerry was a 1963 graduate of Hampton High School.  He went on to serve in the US ARMY as an Airborne soldier and qualified Army Ranger where he was awarded the distinguished “Defense Meritorious Service Medal.”  After his service he went on to graduate from the Newport News Apprenticeship Program and retired in 1993 from the Department of Defense as a Marine Surveyor.

Being extremely intelligent, Jerry had a special skill in the field of engineering.  Jerry was a man of many talents.  He built his beautiful home on the Currituck Sound and was an avid woodworker building furniture and wood carvings.  He built numerous museum quality model ships- one of which included the USS Constitution which was on display in the Jacksonville, FL Maritime Museum.

After retirement, Jerry went on to work for Seamark Foods and became known as “Chef Dirt”.  He published six cookbooks and made appearances on many national television networks performing cooking demonstrations on how to prepare seafood.  He was known for his North Carolina style barbecue and developed a line of seafood dips which were available at regional grocery stores.

Jerry was a constant presence in the home and will be greatly missed by family, friends, and his faithful dog, Bo.  The family has decided to have a private celebration of life in lieu of a funeral service.  Please share expressions of sympathy with the family at www.gallopfuneralservices.com .