JEAN ISOBEL SMITH (WALLACE)

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JEAN ISOBEL SMITH (nee WALLACE) On Thursday, April 28, 2005 at the age of 84 years, with family by her side, Jean Smith of Crystal City, MB passed away peacefully at the Boundary Trails Health Centre. She is survived by her husband of 62 years, Robert Harvey Smith, three daughters, Allison (David Weagle), Barb (Jim Cannons) and Leigh; and two sons, Wally (Joyce) and Jamie (Carol). She was deeply loved and adored by her six grandchildren, Lynne (Peter), Robert (Julia), Jillian (Ryan), Kevin, Blair and Janis. She will also be fondly remembered by her dearly loved nieces and nephews and their families, as well as numerous friends and neighbours. Mom was born and raised in the Londesboro District east of Pilot Mound and cherished her memories of those early years on the Wallace farm. She maintained strong ties with her childhood and school chums and enjoyed telling stories of the good times they had. After graduating from Grade 12, Mom entered the civil service and went to work in Ottawa. She and Dad were married at the Wallace farm on October 15, 1942. They were then stationed in Trenton, ON as Dad had joined the RCAF. Deep friendships formed during the war years continued until present day. Mom and Dad returned to the Smith family farm south of Crystal City where they resided until 1994, at which time they moved into the new house in town. Mom was a lover of music. She ensured that her children had the opportunity to pursue music lessons and continued to attend local music festivals and productions after her own children were no long involved. Mom was always pleased to hear Dad playing the drums for the Crystal Ramblers. The tapes of their music sustained her during unwavering and devoted care for him at the Prairie View Lodge in recent years. Mom possessed a keen appreciation for the beauties of nature. She tended her flower gardens and yard with care and diligence, and derived great joy from placing bouquets of freshly cut flowers on her dining room table. Watching the many birds visit her backyard feeders also brought Mom much enjoyment. Mom's sharp mind would lead her into discussions on current affairs, politics and philosophical issues. She would express her views articulately and with conviction. The kitchen table was a gathering place for visits, good camaraderie and lots of laughter. Although she didn't participate in organized sports, she cheered hard for her children's various team and individual pursuits. She followed the Winnipeg Jets, the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and the curling scene with animated intensity. Mom's presence in the community reflected her quiet and unassuming personality, her warmth and her love of children. She served as Superintendent of the United Church Sunday School and was an Honorary Life Member of the UCW. She greeted others with a smile and would take time to stop and visit. Mom and Dad's travels to visit their children and grandchildren allowed them to see many parts of Canada and the United States. Dad's position with the Royal Canadian Legion enabled them to attend conferences across the county. Although she enjoyed travelling, Mom was always happy to return to the comfort of her home, where she resided until her final days. Mom's greatest love was her family and raising her five children. She was a firm believer in fairness and equality. She treated each of her children and grandchildren with the same love, recognizing individual strengths and merits, and accepting the many differing personalities. She dedicated herself to looking after each family member and easing others' hurts , while putting aside her own needs. Mom has now found rest and comfort in the arms of those who have gone before. She will be missed and always remembered with love and gratitude. The family would like to express its sincerest thanks to the doctors and staff at Rock Lake Hospital for their care and concern. A special thank you is also extended to the wonderful doctors and nurses in the ICU and Medical Care Ward at the Boundary Trails Health Centre. The compassion and kindness shown to Mom will not be forgotten. The funeral service will be held on Tuesday, May 3 at 2:00 p.m. in the Crystal City United Church. Cremation has already taken place. Grandson Blair Smith will act as urn bearer. In lieu of flowers, donations in Mom's name may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Manitoba, 200-6 Donald St., Winnipeg, MB R3L 0K6, or to a charity of your choice. Graham's Funeral Home of Pilot Mound is in charge of arrangements. A mother's love is tied with heartstrings.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 02, 2005