Obituary of Carmon Ronald Smith

Carmon passed away at his home on June 30, 2023. On Feb 9, 1937, he was born two miles west of Odessa on an original Smith grant to his 4th great grandfather, Darius Smith. He was the Son of Ronald and Laura Smith (nee Amos); the first of 3 boys.

 

In an effort to describe Carmon Smith and his full 86 years, words seem to fall short. 

A man of many words, his passion for history meant he could take you through your whole family tree with just your last name and the knowledge of where you were from. Whether it was family, history, the news or politics, he could strike up a conversation that lasted for hours. Meeting new people and learning everything he could about them was one of his favourite pastimes.

A lifelong learner, he never slowed down in his quest for knowledge. It took him in many different directions including driving a school bus at the age of 16, acting principal of Millhaven Public School, teaching at Collins Bay Penitentiary, founding Smith Bros. Water Service (now Smith’s Pumping), selling real estate, starting a farm and working in the oil fields in Swan Hills Alberta. These were all just a footnote on his life adventures. 

 

The biggest and most important adventure of his life was marrying his childhood sweetheart at the age of 20; Jacqueline “Jackie” Spencer. Together, for over 57 years, they traveled, danced, played scrabble and started a beautiful family. 

 

Carmon’s door was always open and he was there for anyone who called; he helped all of his children prosper. He loved nature, especially his canine friends and also took great joy in watching his birds. 

 

He is predeceased by his parents, his loving wife, and his brother, Marvin Smith. He is remembered by his family and many friends. His brother Allan Smith (Diane Goodberry). His daughter Darlene Smith Whitaker and her daughter Stephanie Whitaker (Eric Harper). His son Chris Smith and wife Laurette. Their sons Joshua (Tylor), Jordan, and Cole (Miesje Stewart). Joshua’s children Emma, Hadleigh, Ruger, Kade, Gray, and Wren Smith. Jordan’s son Owen Smith and his mother Ashley Solberg. His daughter Catherine Smith and her children Ryan Lemmon (Kelsey) and Katie Fejer (Dustin Beach). Ryan’s daughters Stella and Stevie Lemmon. Also remembered by his loving friend Margaret Payne.

 

Carmon’s life’s work on his family history had contributed to the Meacham Historical Atlas. His wish was for his work on the Smith family history to be made available to anyone now and in the future. It has been left in the care of his daughter Catherine Smith.

 

There will be no Funeral or wake. A small Celebration of Life for family and close friends will be held at a later date. Anyone wishing to make a donation in Carmon’s memory may do so to the Kingston Humane Society or the OSPCA L&A.

 

Arrangements entrusted to Payne Funeral Home, 178 Main Street, Odessa, Ontario K0H 2H0 (613-386-7373). Please share your memories and condolences to the family at www.paynefuneralhome.com