Obituary of Stephen Ernest Smith

SMITH, Stephen Ernest - Age 70, of LaHave. Passed away peacefully at home Sunday morning, November 26, 2023, after a short but courageous battle with cancer, and with family by his side. He was the son of Norma Jean O’Hara and the late, Gerald Ernest Smith, and step-son to the late John O’Hara.

Despite the sadness of the time, Steve spent his final days near the glow of a Christmas tree, with the fireplace lit, and Christmas carols playing quietly in the background, surrounded by those who loved him. Stephen worked for 35+ years as a driving improvement officer with the Registry of Motor Vehicles and was an active member of the LaHave & District Fire Department, right up until his illness set in and he could no longer participate. In addition to also being a member of the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary, Stephen was very involved with his community church, and served as a warden at the St. James Anglican church, in LaHave. Stephen was also a major supporter of his wife’s endeavors with Souls Harbour Mission and was well known for his willingness to jump in and lend a hand wherever he could for those in need, whether it be a friend or a stranger.

While born and raised in Halifax, Steve made his home with his family in LaHave where he enjoyed many years as an avid boater on the river and loved spending any free time he had working on his property, his gardens, and often times, his lawnmower. With five kids at home, free time was a luxury for many years, and Steve could often be found driving the kids from one activity or sporting event to another, or he would be making quick trips to the city to visit family whenever they could. As the kids grew and moved away from home, Steve and wife, Margie, enjoyed any opportunity to entertain friends, they looked forward to annual visits to Cuba, and whenever the weather cooperated, they would take special drives in their little red “Bee”. Steve also especially loved visits from the kids, and later grandkids, whether they be two legged or four, he loved them all and was so proud of them. He loved having visits and having family close by.

Stephen is survived by his loving wife, Margaret “Margie”; mother, Norma Jean O’Hara; daughter, Morgan (Jason Hardy) Smith, Amherst; sons, Matthew Norrie, Dartmouth, Christopher (Lori Lynn) Smith, Beaver Bank, Brent Smith, Truro, Ben (Coral) Norrie, China; sister, Deborah (Paul) Merrick, Porter’s Lake; brother-in-law, Bill Scott; grandchildren, Luka Smith, Katelyn Smith, Oliver Norrie, Scotty Smith, and Claire Smith; nieces and nephews, Emilie, Bradley, Shauna, and Kathryn; and great-nieces and nephews, Alex, Paige, and Boden. He was predeceased by his father, Gerald; and step-father, John.

The family is especially grateful for the love and support from extended family and close friends in Steve’s final weeks, with special mention to Steve’s Building Crew buddies, and his friend with the forklift, that assisted them so many times over the years. They would also like to thank the palliative care team for their ongoing care, Kim Berkley, the VON supports who came daily, and Dr. R. Rendon and Dr. Parker, for their support and interventions. Also, thank you to Rev. Osmond and Sweeny’s Funeral Home for their guidance during this very difficult time.

A Memorial Service for Stephen will be held 1 p.m., Friday, December 1^st, 2023, in St. James Anglican Church, LaHave, Rev. Oliver Osmond officiating. Private family interment will be held in Fort Point Cemetery. A public reception will be held immediately following the church service at the LaHave & District Fire Hall, 50 School House Road, LaHave. Memorial donations in memory of Stephen may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, or Souls Harbour Rescue Mission, Bridgewater. Arrangements have been entrusted to Sweeny’s Funeral Home, 35 York St., Bridgewater, where online messages of condolence may be made by visiting www.sweenysfuneralhome.com.