Obituary of Rex Smith

With sadness, we announce the passing of our father, Garland Rex Smith, age 87 years, at St. Peter’s Hospital in Hamilton, Ontario.  He is survived by his 2 daughters, Diane Jamieson (Toronto), and Lora Smith (Montreal). He is predeceased by his wife of 63 years, May (nee Skanes). 

Rex will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by many including his sons-in-law, Douglas Jamieson and Christian Gagné, his grandchildren, Laura, Victoria, Sidney, Keira, and Olivia, as well as his numerous nieces and nephews.  He is predeceased by siblings Miriam, Rita, Clyde, Kathleen (Kay), Cecil, Rosalind, Gerald, and Oliver (Junior).   

Rex was born in Chance Cove, NL to Emma (nee Newhook) and Rev. Malcolm Smith and was a proud Newfoundlander. For most of his career he was successfully self-employed working as a Manufacturers Agent in St. John’s representing and selling office equipment, plumbing supplies and German wines.  He was very active in the business community and service clubs, serving at various times as the head of the St. John’s Chamber of Commerce, President of the Lion’s Club and Master of St. John’s Lodge of the Masonic.

In 1998 Rex and May moved to Vineland, ON to enjoy the beautiful Niagara climate and be closer to their daughters and families. Family meant the world to Rex. His favourite times were when he was surrounded by family, enjoying drinks, dinner and music. In earlier days, the entire Smith clan would regularly get together for Sunday BBQs in St. John’s, Brigus and Bay Roberts.  In 2004, members of this tight-knit family travelled to Nova Scotia for a Smith Family Reunion!

Rex was an avid golfer throughout his life. He regularly won a spot on the NL Provincial Men’s Golf Team and frequently won Senior Men’s tournaments. Upon moving to Ontario, Rex and May joined Rockway Vineyards Golf Club in St. Catharine’s.  For the last 15 years, Rex worked as a starter at the club - a position that he loved dearly! Thanks to Donny Churchill and the entire team for all the special times and support over the years.    

Dad made a lasting impression on many people throughout his life. He was a master at building relationships and developed many enduring friendships in Newfoundland, in Vineland and at Rockway Vineyards Golf Club.   

A special thank you to the amazing team at St. Peter’s Hospital Palliative Care Unit. Your attention, support and kindness was incredible and deeply appreciated.  In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Pancreatic Cancer Canada: https://pancreaticcancercanada.ca .

There will be a visitation on Friday, November 4 from 2PM – 4PM at the Vineland Chapel of Tallman Funeral Homes, 3277 King St., Vineland.  A Service of Thanksgiving followed by a reception will take place on Saturday, November 5 at 10AM at St. John’s Anglican Church, 2878 St John's Dr, Jordan Station, ON.