Peacefully at the Quinte Healthcare North Hastings Hospital in Bancroft, on Tuesday, March 24, 2026 at the age of 89, was the beloved husband of the late Ann Smith. Loved father of Kathleen, James (Aldona) and David (Johanna). Loved grandfather of Gwen, Morgan, Darian, Angus, Sonia and Simon. Brother of Robert Smith of Plainfield.
Stewart McConachie Smith born in Hamilton to the Rev. Angus Smith and Annie (née McConachie) Smith, Stewart earned an Honours Bachelor of Arts in History from the University of Toronto and then a Certificate in Theology from St. Andrew’s College, Saskatoon. He spent early years as a history teacher, and an Ordained United Church Minister before settling in as a journalist in the community of Bancroft in 1979. Here, he built both a career and a life rooted in connection and storytelling. As a dedicated local journalist, he found great joy in reporting on the people, events, and everyday moments that shaped his community.
Outside of his work, he cherished an active and meaningful life with Ann. In retirement together, they spent their days engaged in the community or walking their rural property, often in the company of their cats. His love for the Bancroft area and its people was evident in everything he did.
He will be remembered for his strong convictions, his curiosity, his commitment to local life, and his deep devotion to his family. He now rests in peace, reunited with Ann.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff of Hastings Centennial Manor and Quinte Healthcare for the compassionate and loving care provided to Stewart.
Stewart’s family will receive relatives and friends at the M.G. Daly Funeral Home, 200 Old Hastings Rd., Maynooth, Ontario on Wednesday, April 1, 2026 from 5:00 – 8:00 pm. Then at St. John’s Anglican Church, 40 Flint St., Bancroft on Thursday, April 2, 2026 from 10:00 – 11:00 am. A Funeral Service will follow at 11:00 am with Father Michael Bird officiating. Interment will be at St. John’s Anglican Cemetery, Bancroft in the spring. As expressions of sympathy, donations to Leukemia and Lymphoma Society would be appreciated by the family. Arrangements entrusted to M.G. Daly Funeral Home, Maynooth. (613) 338-3259 (Condolence messages may be e-mailed to dalyfuneralhome@bellnet.ca or visit www.mgdalyfuneralhome.com).
