Today, we remember and celebrate the life of Laura Smith, a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished grandmother, and the heart of our family. Her love, strength, and unwavering dedication helped build not only a successful company, but a remarkable family whose values continue to guide us every day.

In 1996, Laura and Darrin founded JessEm, naming the company after their daughters, Jessica and Emily. What began as a dream built on hard work, determination, and faith in one another would grow into something far greater than either could have imagined. Through challenging times and uncertain moments, when many would have chosen a different path, Laura and Darrin persevered together. As a team, they were unstoppable.

While Darrin has often been recognized as the patriarch of the JessEm family, Laura was always its matriarch. She was the steady hand, the voice of reason, and the rock that kept all of us grounded. Her strength was not measured by titles or recognition, but by the countless ways she supported those around her. She balanced the demands of helping build a business with the even greater responsibility of raising three children, creating a home filled with love, guidance, and encouragement.

JessEm would not be what it is today without Laura. Her influence shaped the values that continue to guide our company: perseverance, integrity, commitment to family, and genuine care for others. She believed in people, believed in hard work, and believed that success meant little if it was not shared with those you love.

In her later years, Laura embraced one of her most cherished roles that of grandmother. Retirement gave her the opportunity to spend precious time with her grandchildren, creating memories and sharing the same love, wisdom, and warmth that had always defined her life.

Laura's legacy lives on in her family, in the company she helped build, and in the many lives she touched along the way. We are profoundly grateful for the example she set, the sacrifices she made, and the love she gave so freely.

We will miss her deeply, but we will carry her spirit with us every day. The foundation she helped build remains strong, and her memory will continue to inspire all of us for generations to come.

With love and gratitude,

The Smith Family & The JessEm Team