IRVING JOSEPH SMITH

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IRVING JOSEPH SMITH
July 3, 1929 – November 5, 2022

We are sad to announce the passing of Irving Joseph Smith, who died at the age of 93.
Irving leaves to mourn his beloved wife of 63 years, Phyllis Smith (nee Rawlins), his three children, Andre, Anthony (Tony) and Ernest, along with his daughter-in-law Leslie Smith (nee Willis) and grandchildren, Alex (Ali) and Benjamin (Ben). Irving also leaves to mourn his beloved sister Olive Martin (nee Smith), and numerous nephews and nieces in Trinidad, Canada and the United states.
Irving was born in Princes Town, in the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. It was in Princess Town where he met his future wife, Phyllis Rawlins. After five years of courtship, they married and raised their three children in Trinidad before immigrating to Winnipeg in 1971.
As a young man Irving worked at many trades before becoming a distinguished police officer in the Usine Ste. Madeline region in Trinidad and Tobago. He was especially proud of his success as a police officer, and this experience shaped his life, character and respect for the profession. After immigrating to Canada, Irving worked many jobs, but eventually decided to return to his first trade, carpentry, where he excelled at Metwood Industries. Irving was always a hardworking, loyal and dedicated man, committed to providing for his family. He also had a kind, friendly disposition, with an engaging smile and infectious laugh.
He was passionate about his Caribbean culture and heritage. He also had a remarkable memory and shared wonderful stories of his youth, and life experiences. He loved listening to jazz, soca, calypso and steel band music. After his retirement, he enjoyed long leisurely walks, exploring the city, making homemade wine, watching old movies, working on home projects and following the political discourse on cable TV. Perhaps his greatest passion was his love of cooking, and baking for his family. We will always remember the excitement of eating a meal prepared by "daddy".
To honour Irving's memory, the family will hold a Celebration of Life at a later date. In the meantime, our family would like to thank everyone for their kind words of condolence.

We will all miss him very much.
Condolences may be left on his tribute wall at www.gilbartfuneralhome.com

Gilbart Funeral Home, Selkirk
in care of arrangements.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 19, 2022