Dorothy Smith

April 30, 1925 - June 3, 2021


SMITH, Dorothy Redmayne
Dorothy passed away peacefully on June 3, 2021, on her own terms, in her beloved West 2nd home. She was born April 30, 1925, in Toronto, Ontario. (she loved the fact that her birthday was Income Tax Day) Dorothy was the loved wife of William Charles Smith (d. 2003) for forty eight years, and loved mother to Dorothy Lee (Ed), Susan (Ross), Richard and Douglas (Barb). Dorothy was happiest in her kitchen, baking cakes and cookies, and preserving jams and jellies. In another life, she probably could have set up a successful business with her ability to combine the most unusual flavours. Who else had lavender flavoured shortbread forty years ago? Her cakes graced the tables of many weddings, birthdays, showers, graduations, and christenings. Her shortbread was legendary. For some, Christmas just wasn’t Christmas until they had a plate with Dorothy’s finest. Dorothy’s hands were rarely still. She knit over two thousand baby hats for the Birthing and NICU units of St. Joseph’s and Joseph Brant Hospitals. Dorothy crotcheted and knitted blankets, many of which were given to those who were out in the cold. Our mom was the Hallmark-Carlton Queen. I don’t think she ever forgot a birthday, graduation, anniversary or celebration card. Dorothy was a faithful member of Olivet United Church (a life long UCW member) and with a heavy heart, and her resilient nature, she sadly accepted its closing. Dorothy’s family want to express our deep gratitude to her devoted neighbours and friends, Tiny and Lori, Sarah and Andrew, June, Bernice, Gayle and Jim (who always helped with her taxes) making it possible for our mom to remain in her home. There are no adequate words to thank her primary care physician Dr. Fugere and team, who showed such devotion and insight, caring for all her physical and emotional needs. Dorothy was so grateful to Rev. Philip Gardner who became her trusted spiritual guide and friend. Dorothy was a proud grandma to five granddaughters, Erin, Courtney, Martha, Bethany, and Kaylin. She delighted in being GG to Lily, Sadie, Myles, Carter, Braeden, and Kylie. Dorothy was predeceased by a brother and two sisters. She is survived by her brother Stuart (Julie) of California USA. Most of Dorothy’s friends beat her to the Pearly Gates and undoubtedly were there to welcome her. A private funeral will be held for immediate family due to Covid. In lieu of any flowers, West Plains United Church and Canadian Diabetes Association were her two favoured charities. Please demonstrate kindness, caring, and understanding to each other, in Dorothy’s memory, and when this dreadful pandemic is over, for heaven’s sake, take a friend to lunch. Nothing would please Dorothy more.
Book of Condolences
Robert Pissey

Posted on: June 8, 2021

Doug, i am sorry to hear about your mother. I remember in Highschool, she always treated me well. It was also a joy to see her at Olivette Church. Your mother was an Angel. I was pleased that she remained in her house. Each time I drive by west 2nd I think fondly of your family.
Wish you the very best.
Tom and Henny Rouse

Posted on: June 7, 2021

Just wanted to send our sincere condolences to Doug, Richard and family. Tom remembers your mom since he was a teenager, and for me, it was when I joined Olivet in 1985. She had an infectious smile, and always made you feel welcome.
Kim, Wendy and Scott

Posted on: June 7, 2021

Honouring one's wishes is the greatest gift you can give. While we are sad to hear of Dorothy's passing, we are grateful it was on her terms and believe that she is truly at peace while she rests now.

Just a very short while ago in March, Ryan passed away unexpectedly and Aunt Dorothy sent one of her beautiful handwritten notes to express condolences with tenderness and support. I (Kim, Ryan's mom) was so touched by her sincerity, care and thoughtfulness. To me, she offered a kind of understanding and acceptance, even from afar.

We remember her Christmas cards - you are right, she never missed a year - and always marvelled at her beautiful handwriting and kind sentiments.

Such a beautiful picture and tribute to read. May a gentle peace find each of you as Dorothy's family and loved ones.

Kim Plisek, Wendy Highfield, Scott Wright (Stuart's kids)
Connie Smith

Posted on: June 6, 2021

Thank you Mrs. Smith for the wonderful fun times that you included my family in when we were children. Mr. and Mrs. Smith gave us something that we never would have had. I still remember all us kids in the back of the station wagon laughing and having fun. She was truly a remarkable woman. We didn't see her often, but when she attended the parties that we invited her to and I said "Oh Hi Mrs. Smith", she would always say "Call me Dorothy". But I couldn't. She was always Mrs. Smith to me. May God bless you as you are reunited with your loved ones and friends.
Tina Barry

Posted on: June 6, 2021

I am thinking of the entire Smith family and sending out my condolences to them. Your mom/grandma/GG was a wonderful person. I can’t remember a time when I did not see a smile on her face. May you Rest In Peace Mrs. Smith. You will never be forgotten.
Bernice Zuber

Posted on: June 4, 2021

No more pain Dorothy. I will always remember you, you became a true friend. I always enjoyed our cups of coffee down at Walmart where we met many people to chat with.