Sheila Smith

Sheila Kenneth Smith

April 19, 1933 – September 18, 2021

Peacefully, after a long illness at the Elizabeth Bruyere Hospital in Ottawa, Ontario. Born in London, England to the late John and Margaret (Doyle) Kenneth, Sheila leaves behind her beloved husband of 44 years, Peter Smith, his sons, Brad (Carol) Smith, Barry Smith, and Steve (Line) Smith, grandchildren Cameron, Alexander, Christopher, Daniel, and Isabelle, and nieces, Lucie and Caroline Stuart. Predeceased by her parents, a brother in infancy, sister, Elizabeth, and brother-in-law, Charles Stuart.

Growing up during WW2, Sheila and her older sister were evacuated to the safety of a stranger’s home in the Welsh countryside. It was there that her love of animals blossomed. Returning to London, she took an after-school job at the Kew Gardens zoo. Dogs were a constant companion in her life; Pasha, Wolf, Harley, and Luna, to name a few.

Completing her nursing studies at Radcliffe Infirmary in Oxford, England, Sheila worked as a midwife in London until emigrating to Canada in 1958 with her older sister, also a nurse. With jobs waiting for them at Toronto General Hospital, Sheila continued her studies at University of Toronto. In 1965 she became a public health nurse with the Leeds & Grenville Health Unit. In 1967 she moved to Ottawa to take a similar role with Bell Canada and then Bell Northern Research. It was here she met Peter, whom she married on December 9,1978. Upon retirement, Peter and Sheila enjoyed countless trips to Florida.

The family wishes to thank her very special friends Sandra, Jennifer and Chris for their unwavering support and kindness. Sincere thanks also to the “mer-ladies” of Brookstreet pool and all those who offered support in so many ways. Additional sincere appreciation to the doctors, nurses and staff at Queensway Carleton and Elizabeth Bruyere hospitals for their compassionate care.

Cremation has taken place. A private gathering of friends and family will take place at a later date following covid protocols. As expressions of sympathy, donations may be made to: The Ottawa Humane Society, Queensway Carleton Hospital, or the Elizabeth Bruyere Hospital palliative care unit