Sharon "Susie" Kay Jessen

Sharon “Susie” Jessen passed away peacefully on May 11, 2026, at UnityPoint St. Luke’s Hospital, surrounded by family, and lived her entire life in Bronson, Iowa.

Susie was born on April 12, 1956, in Sioux City, Iowa. Susie attended Lawton-Bronson High School and graduated in 1974. Susie retired from MidAmerican Energy after 35 years of service.

She married the love of her life, Al Smith, on January 18, 2014, following 20 years of unconditional love.

Susie cared deeply and wholeheartedly for every life she touched. Susie was never guilty of not speaking her mind and all those that knew her also knew her passion for truth with love.

Susie enjoyed sewing, books of all kinds – particularly Danielle Steel – crossword puzzles, gameshows, being outside in the sun, and fishing. Susie was very competitive with everything from playing cards to shooting pool and, of course, an annual “It’s a Wonderful Life” trivia challenge.

Survivors include her husband, Al Smith; son, Tucker Jessen Smith; three sisters, Sheryl Lewis of Sioux City, Iowa, Patti Jessen of Bronson, Iowa, and Jenni Jessen and Sue McCoy of Sioux City, Iowa; two brothers, Bob and Jody Jessen of Sioux City, Iowa, and Roger Jessen of Kansas City, Missouri; two nieces, Gilli Jessen (Baby Girl – daughter) of Vermillion, South Dakota, and Brenda and Wes Gilster of Grimes, Iowa; two nephews, Brad and Angie Lewis of Omaha, Nebraska, and Barry and Brandi Jessen of Bronson, Iowa; sister-in-law, Lindy Jessen of Bronson, Iowa; brother-in-law, Ernie Smith of Bronson, Iowa; and godson, Trevor Kolker of Sioux City, Iowa.

She was preceded in death by her father, William Jessen; mother, Geraldine Jessen; brother, Mike Jessen; brother-in-law, Larry Lewis; and niece Courtney Ervin of Chandler, Arizona.

A family-run Celebration of Life will be at Bronson Shelter House on June 6, 2026, from 1:00 to 4:00 PM. Luncheon will be provided.

Initial arrangements under the direction of Christy-Smith Funeral Homes. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.christysmith.com. The funeral home will not be involved with the service.