Carol Milford Smith
elevated ueAy3 April 1, 1934 ~ April 2, 2025
elevated ueAy3 Visitation
Monday, April 7, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
elevated ueAy3 Holy Cross Catholic Funeral Home
211 Langstaff Road East Thornhill, Ontario L3T 3Z6
elevated ueAy3 Funeral Service
Monday, April 7, 2025 at 12:00 p.m.
elevated ueAy3 Chapel of St. Joseph – Holy Cross Catholic Funeral Home
elevated ueAy3 To watch the Funeral Mass Live, Click Here
elevated ueAy3 Interment
Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery
8361 Yonge Street Thornhill, Ontario L3T 2C7
elevated ueAy3 Obituary
elevated ueAy3 Carol was born April 1, 1934 to Mildred (Davis) and Sidney Smith. He died on April 2, 2025 at the age of 91, having celebrated his birthday with his family. On the day of his death he spiritedly declared to one of his caregivers that he had a wonderful family and had lived a good life. He is predeceased by his beloved wife Marianne (Lavin). Carol is survived by his six children: Rae, Les (Hilary), Kim (Len), Patty (Paul), Barb and Jackie (Andrew). He was blessed with a couple of grandchildren, — wait for it — we have a big team: Annie, Cole, Luke, Ayla, Sam, Spencer, Jack, Charlie, Carly, Sean, Becca, Isaac, Meagan, Madeline, Rachel, Paul, J.Andrew, Lexi, Ryan and Andrew. He also had a few greatgrandchildren: Evan, Theo, Calvin, Addison, Esmėe, Ada, Harry and Violet. He is predeceased by his beloved brother Mervyn and survived by a rather wonderful group of nieces and nephews,and many family friends. He counted himself immeasurably wealthy to have lived his life so well companioned.
Carol also valued his family history. He was born in Burford on his grandfather’s farm where he and his brother spent their summers with his grandparents. He lived in Toronto at College and Spadina right down the road from Borden’s dairy where his blond curls and charming smile would earn him an ice cream cone from a worker there. He completed his plumbing apprenticeship with his cousin Bill and was a member of Local 46 for more than 50 years. He completed a teaching certificate in his 40’s and took great pride in teaching math to the apprentices until his retirement. In the last few years we have heard stories of playing baseball, working up north, a brief employment with the Brantford Expositor, volunteer activities and work he was proud of, things Mom dragged him out for, and people who had touched him.
Nothing was more highly valued than the relationship he had with his beloved wife, Marianne. Her photograph by his chair side, he introduced her to everyone he spoke to. Getting home to her was his only thought in the end.
elevated ueAy3 In lieu of flowers, the family would most appreciate donations made to the Barrie Women and Children’s Shelter. Donations can be made by selecting the link below.
elevated ueAy3 https://barrieshelter.com/
My Condolences to the Smith family.
I had the pleasure of working with Carol in 2007 in the Dominican Republic at a week-long Christian outreach program erecting a school. The organizers quickly recognized Carol’s special talents and assigned him to various tasks that took more than average know-how. Carol’s stamina was admirable; even at age 72 years of age, he worked a full day, sporting long work pants, and a long-sleeved shirt, despite the heat and oppressive humidity.
Uncle Carol was my favourite uncle. Always had given me great advice about my career as a Stationary Engineer. Had great discussions about trades and experiences. Was like a second father to me. He was always there in time of need and was a back bone in the Lavin family get togethers. He will be greatly missed
Ron Dawson
Our sincere condolences. So sorry for your loss. We met your Dad at a few family gatherings and he was always kind.
Dearest Smith Family,
My deepest condolences, warm thoughts and prayers… to your entire family.
Carol will always hold a special place in my memory, and he will be missed by many.
He rest in peace in the living arms of God and the angels, and his beloved.
Much Love, Patsi XO
My most sincere condolences to you all. Your dad was always a special man in our lives. He was a strong man, consummate organizer, and he was a doer. He always made me feel welcome whenever visiting the Smith family home in my youth. He made me feel like I was another addition to your beautiful family. And what a privilege that was. Family was everything to him. The love and care that you have surrounded him with in these last few years shows everything about what an amazing job he and your mother did in raising all of you. He is now with your beautiful mom, she has been patiently waiting and you all have two very dedicated guardian angels with you everyday. They see you. They love you. They are more proud of each of you, than words to ever express and they will be caring for you from above. Sending so much light, love and prayers during this difficult time to the most special family I know.
I had a dream after my mom passed and she spoke this poem to me. I feel compelled to share part of that with you, as I hope it may bring you some comfort. In the quiet moments of your life, if you listen with intent, you will always hear their whispers from beyond. They are still with you. Love you all. Xoxo
My life in past tense
Was just not meant to be
You see, the past will fade the colours
That still shine so brilliantly
Past tense removes believers
From now into a place unknown
Where faith is more uncertain
Where angels have never flown
Past tense will cloud the heart
Weighing down the soul
Think of me in the present
As you stand on this grassy knoll
Past tense eliminates senses
That you are meant to feel
As you hear the cardinals singing
Please let me take your wheel.
I am hear in the present
Of that you can rest assured
My heart is with this minute
And in this place there is a cure
We speak of dreams and visions
Well, presently, I see them clear
Every second of every moment
I am with you now my dears
I travel right beside you
Each exciting step of the way
Each morning sunrise I wake you
And together we will face the day
In a walk within the forest
The breeze will touch your face
It is not a simple wind
For I am there in that special place
In the laughter of your children
I am carried to your ears
Remember these words my darlings
I will erase all of your fears
When darkness seems to drown you
Our present love will make it shine
You need to know this truly
I will always know you as mine
In these words within this whisper
Provided by God’s grace
Look to the stars at night
And I will always show my face
I am not past tense
I will always let you see
Morning sunshine through the windows
My love exemplified with each beam
Love us in the present…
Take us with you every day…
We are your whispering angels…
And our love will light your way…
Ⓒ
It’s been many years since we connected back at Youth Corps, but Carol was always cherished and always imparted wisdom. For the family you have a Saint in Heaven guiding you in your thoughts, words, and actions….
My beloved friend Patty, my arms hold you and my heart, as always, is with you. To your family, siblings, extended family and friends, condolences. As a child, walking into the Smith home, with so many children, I blended in until I’d say “hello Mr Smith” and behind his newspaper he’d grunt a hello. Always a great story from Carol when we’d dine together at Patty & Paul’s house. Baa Maampii Carol.
Barb, Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. May your memories of your father bring you and your family comfort and peace.
Barb, Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. May memories of your father bring you and your family comfort and peace.
With loving thoughts I want to express my sincerest condolences to Rea, Les, Kim, Patty, Barb, and Jackie. I am sorry for your loss. Please extend my sympathy to all your loved ones. When I first heard of Carol’s death my thoughts turned back to Youth Corp and the Summer Family Peace Weekends camping at Sharon. Friendships were made there that lasted a life time. Carol lived a long and commendable life. May he now Rest in Peace, in Eternal Glory.
Rest in peace, Carol. Sorry we were not with you and your family when you passed. You and Marianne were such a vital part of our lives and taught my husband, so much and always said yes to Marianne’s nephew, Johnnie Martin whenever he asked for help or advice. You and Marianne opened your home to us for Sunday dinners and holidays. John respected your intelligence and work ethic and modelled himself after you in many ways and thought of you and Marianne with great love as did I. Thank you for your generosity and guidance and for raising six exceptional and loving children. You have left a rich legacy for your family, friends and fellow workers.. You’ve earned your
reward, Carol. You used the gifts you were given to make the world a better place. Thank you, Uncle Carol.