Obituary of Gladys Ada Smith

GLADYS ADA SMITH (nee SIMMONDS)

December 17, 1920 – September 7^th, 2022

The family of Gladys Ada Smith is sad to announce her passing on September 7, 2022 at the age of 101, but we rejoice in a life well lived with faith in her Lord, courage and compassion. She was a blessing to us and we thank God for the gift of Mom in our lives. She was predeceased by her husband, Arthur (2012), son, Glenn (2009), parents Arthur and Ada Simmonds, brothers, Herbert, Claude and David, sisters Dorothy (Bill) Eberlin, and Mary Sturgess. She will be missed by sister Madeline Simmonds, (Toronto) Barbara Simmonds (Uxbridge) and Dr. Rev. William Sturgess (Ottawa).

Survived and loved by her children, Marilyn (Elmer) Reist, Waterloo, Elizabeth (Elwyn) Hock, Ohio and Heather (Linden) Frederick, Maine. She was a beloved grandmother to 10 grandchildren and 18 greatgrandchildren.

Born in Toronto, Gladys attended Northern Vocational School. She worshipped at Immanuel Baptist Church and was married there in 1943. She and Arthur moved to St. Catharines where they resided for over 60 years. As well as raising 4 children, Gladys was very involved in community work, church activities, and decided to go back to school for further education. She attended Brock University and received her B.A., M.Ed and Ministry Teaching Certificate. She taught for the Lincoln and Niagara South Board. She also received her A.R.C.T. in Piano Performance at the age of 39.

Gladys was involved in Queen Street Baptist Church, Calvary A.G. Church and Glenridge Bible Church using her music abilities. She was an active honorary member of The Gideons, and the Glenridge Bowling Club.

In 2008, Gladys and Arthur moved to Parkwood Mennonite Home, Waterloo, where they enjoyed an independent apartment. Gladys continued to use her musical talents there and was greatly loved by her fellow residents and staff for her friendly spirit and willingness to help others. She moved into the LTC area at Parkwood in 2017.

The family wish to thank the Staff at Parkwood for their love and excellent care, her wonderful friends and CCAC, and the medical persons who attended to her health needs.

Memorial donations to Parkwood Mennonite Home, Waterloo and ShareWord (The Gideons) Guelph, would be appreciated.

A celebration of life for Gladys will be held at the Vineland Chapel of Tallman Funeral Homes (3277 King St., Vineland) on Saturday October 1^st, 2022 at 12:00pm, with an hour of visitation before the service.  Followed by a reception in the Fireside room.  A private family burial will take place prior to the service.  For those wishing to view the livestream please follow this link – Livestream – Gladys Smith

Gladys did not like black, so please wear her favourite bright colours (purple, blue and green.)