Obituary of Barbara Diane Smith
Smith, Barbara Diane (nee Boyle)
At LHSC University Hospital on Sunday, March 29th, 2026, Barbara Diane (nee Boyle) Smith, in her 78th year. Beloved wife of Norm Smith for 55 years. Loving mother to Stephanie Schembri (Mario) and Heather Murrell (Craig). Cherished Nana of Andrew, Dylan and Ben Schembri and Ava, Ella and Callie Murrell. Dear sister of Marg Barry (Rob) and Robert Boyle (Sharon). Predeceased by her parents, Norman and Doreen Boyle, and her brother, William Boyle. Loving aunt to all her nieces and nephews.
Barb was born in Toronto and raised in Goderich and Kitchener. While attending teachers' college in London, she met Norm during a chance encounter one evening while bowling at Fleetway 40. Norm was visiting a friend in town, and that fleeting moment marked the beginning of a lifelong partnership. Less than two years later, Barb and Norm were married, beginning a 55-year journey together that took them to Kanata, Saskatoon, Mississauga, and eventually back to London, where they put down roots and raised their family.
Barb devoted her career to teaching, instructing youth in English and French and later teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) to adults. Her true passion lay in working with adults who were new to Canada, helping them learn English. Through her work teaching ESL, Barb formed many lasting friendships that meant a great deal to her.
Her teaching career was cut short when she was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. For more than 30 years, Barb faced this challenging disease with extraordinary courage, resilience, and grace. As her mobility declined, she continued to persevere, becoming an inspiration to all who knew her.
Friendships were deeply important to Barb, and over the years she cultivated many enduring relationships that brought her great joy. Above all, however, her greatest love was her family. Together with Norm, she raised two daughters and later found immense happiness in watching her family grow to include six grandchildren. Her family was her greatest pride and the light of her life.
The family is deeply grateful for the compassionate care Barb received over the years from the personal support workers at Cheshire London, and more recently from the nurses, PSWs, and doctors at University Hospital. They would also like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the many family members and friends who have offered unwavering love, kindness, and support throughout the years, it has meant more to them than words can express.
Visitors will be received at John T. Donohue Funeral Home, 362 Waterloo Street at King Street, on Tuesday, March 31st, from 1:00-3:00pm and 6:00-8:00pm. Funeral Mass will be held at Holy Family Parish, 777 Valetta Street, on Wednesday, April 1st, at 10:00 am. Interment in St. Peter’s Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations to Cheshire Independent Living Services, the MS Society or a charity of your choice would be appreciated.
