Obituary of Garry James Smith
Loving Husband, Dad and Papa
Garry passed away peacefully on December 2nd, 2023 at the age of 81.
A lifelong educator, he was beloved by both staff and students at the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board. Garry taught at Lisgar Collegiate Institute for 11 years, was vice principal at Canterbury high school as well as Principal at Nepean and Ridgemont high schools, and a history consultant for the board.
Garry loved sports, was an avid hockey player and loved basketball, coaching several high school teams. His favourite place was Bass Lake with its waterskiing, paddle, tennis and horseshoe tournaments, and the Ridgewood community potlucks. He adored being surrounded by his family, friends, neighbours, and anywhere where his grandchildren were. Garry greeted everyone with a smile and his calm, thoughtful demeanour was greatly respected. Garry could always be counted on to help anyone, in any way and all those who were fortunate enough to meet him will remember an unfailingly well-mannered, honest, and exceedingly kind man.
Garry is survived by his loving wife of 20 years Barbara Smith, his cherished daughter Sherry (Dave), Sherry’s mother Susan, step-children AJ (Vicki), Steph (Jeff) and Jen (John) as well as his beloved grandchildren Jennifer (Keon), Michael (Kayla), Rowan, Quinn, Mick (Nia), Charlie, Jaime, Sydney, Ella, Macy, Nate and Tayah.
The family would like to thank all the wonderful staff at the Broadview Nursing Home in Smiths Falls for their wonderful care over the past 3 years. A celebration of life will be held for Garry at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada would be appreciated. Arrangements are in the care of Blair & Son Funeral Home, Perth.
