Darlene Delores Smart, dearly loved by her family, neighbours, and friends, was called home to be with her beloved husband, and infant daughter, on Friday November 28, 2025 in Stratford, Ontario.
Darlene is survived by daughters Jennifer Reiger, Bernice Ridsdale (Dan), and son William Smart. Also surviving Darlene is former daughter in law Nancy Smart.
Darlene (Nana) is blessed to be survived by 10 grandchildren: Macrina and Anastasia Smart, Lesley Ridsdale (Ben), Jonathan Ridsdale (Liz and great granddaughter Lucy), Katie Ridsdale (Darren), Bradly Reiger (Laura), and Marcus, Daniel, Matthew, and Jessica.
She is predeceased by husband Glen William Smart (2013) and infant daughter Julie Ann Smart (1965), parents Clifford and Mabel Palmer, brothers Rodger Palmer (Sadie), and Jerry Palmer (Erma Clarke).
Darlene loved all things Stratford – the swans, the festival, and the friendly community, but she especially loved raising her family there. During the late 80’s, after providing childcare in the home for many other families, Darlene began working outside of the home where she thrived. Her weekends and holidays were happily enjoyed on Lake Huron at Kitchigami Camp with family and friends.
She will be deeply missed but leaves behind a legacy of resilience and grace for all who were blessed to know and spend time with her. Her perseverance and resiliency remained constant, combined with great love and caring from family and neighbours, which allowed her to overcome many challenges to remain in the family home, which was so very important to her.
Family and friends are invited to gather at the family home in Stratford on Saturday, December 6, 2025, from 1:00 – 3:00 pm in a celebration to remember and honour Darlene in the comfortable setting she so cherished. Interment at Avondale Cemetery at a later date.
As expressions of sympathy, memorial donations may be made to the Stratford Public Library (www.splibrary.ca/donate) directly, or through Rutherford Cremation & Funeral Services (www.jarfh.com) 804 Ontario St., Stratford. 519-271-5062.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Darlene, please visit our floral store.
