Eleanor Jean Smith

Eleanor Jean Smith (nee Brodrick), 87, peacefully passed away on September 27, 2023 at her residence in Goderich, Ontario. She was survived by her beloved husband Ralph Edgar Smith, whom she shared over 42 years of happiness with. Left to mourn her are her dearly loved children, Doug Scott (Anna) and Liz Scott (Rich Fletcher), along with her cherished grandchildren Matthew (Katherine) and Carly Scott (Derek Dokis), and Joshua, Cameron (Marta Pawlewicz), and Mackenzie Fletcher. She was also remembered by her stepchildren Kimberley (Rick Larin), Stephen (Karen), David, Ann (Paul Harrop), and Greg (Cindy Windsor) and their families, including eight grandchildren. Eleanor took great delight in her seven Smith great-grandchildren and two Scott great-grandchildren.

She is survived by her dear sister-in-law Valerie Brodrick, her brother-in-law Ron Smith (Laurene), and her numerous nieces and nephews. She will be dearly missed by her cousin Sandy (David) Matthews, with whom she exchanged weekly correspondence. Additionally, she will be remembered by the extended family of her late husband Jim Scott (2017), known as the “Scott Clan,” all of whom she held close to her heart.

Eleanor was born on July 20, 1936, in Regina and relocated to London, Ontario in 1939. She attended Tecumseh Public School and South Collegiate before her family settled in Richmond Hill, where she graduated from RHHS. In 1957, she obtained her B.A. from the University of Toronto (Trinity College) and completed her studies at Toronto Teacher’s College the following year. Eleanor specialized in both Primary Education and Special Education. During her career, she taught for the Forest Hill Board of Education, as well as the London and Huron County Boards. She served as Principal of Huron Hope School and Vice-Principal of Victoria Public School before retiring in 1991. Eleanor and her husband Ralph shared a love for travel and enjoyed exploring destinations ranging from Nunavut to the Amazon Jungle. They embarked on cruises worldwide and took train trips across Canada. Their initial love for tent camping eventually led them to upgrade to a trailer, followed by a fifth wheel, and finally a park model, where they relished watching sunsets over the lake. Their happiest times were spent in their cabin nestled within their 40-acre property near their Bayfield home on Lake Huron. Half of this property was generously donated to the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority, and it has since become the Smith Heritage Trail at the Bannockburn Wildlife Centre.

In addition to her teaching career, Eleanor had a creative soul and pursued various hobbies, including weaving, co-writing books, and genealogy. Her passion for history was nourished during her time as a volunteer archivist at St. George’s Anglican Church in Goderich. She authored a book documenting the families commemorated in the church’s 29 stained glass windows and generously donated the proceeds to the church.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude for the exceptional kindness, care, and comfort provided by the special family at Goderich Place. They would also like to acknowledge the unwavering support received from Dr. Michael Dawson, Eleanor’s dedicated physician of many years, and her devoted palliative nurse Jessica Bentley. Furthermore, the family extends heartfelt appreciation to Eleanor and Ralph’s daughters, Liz and Kim, for their tireless commitment in caring for their parents throughout Eleanor’s final journey. Their selfless dedication ensured a comfortable transition for Eleanor and Ralph, for which the entire family is immensely grateful.

Eleanor will forever be remembered for her kindness, love of family, gentle strength, and generous spirit, which will continue to impact the world. In memory of Eleanor, donations to St. George’s Anglican Church in Goderich are greatly appreciated, with the proceeds designated for the Restoration Fund for the Stained Glass Windows. Alternatively, donations can be made in her memory to the Canadian Cancer Society.

Cremation has already taken place. Family visitation will be held from 12 pm to 1 pm, followed by public visitation from 1 pm to 2 pm, with a Funeral Service to commence at 2 pm on Thursday, October 5, 2023, at St. George’s Anglican Church, 87 North St, Goderich. Friends may also sign the book of condolences at http://www.mccallumpalla.ca.