SMITH, Joan Ruth Smith

Passed away at the Peterborough Regional Health Centre on Wednesday June 3, 2026 at the age of 81 years.  Wife of the late David George Smith (2018).  Loved by her daughters Joanne DeGarie (late Claude) and Brenda Smith (Chris Davis). Beloved Grandma of Madison Blanchard (Justin), James Lockett, Autumn Thomas (Patrick), Amelia Westner (Sebastian), Merrick Thomas (Sara-Lee) and Patrick Smith and blessed proud great grandma of 9.  Also missed by her brother Paul Merrick (Rachel), her 7 nieces, 4 nephews, and long-time friend Marion Gall (Larry).  Predeceased by her siblings Anna Beach, Patricia Weston (Sid), Margaret Merrick and Miriam O’Prey; nephews Mike Weston and Tim Merrick, niece Theresa Merrick and brother’s in-law Dennis Smith and Terry O’Prey.

Joan Ruth Smith will be remembered for her generous heart and a respected fortitude of will by her many loved ones. Outwardly Joan was modest and reserved, yet over the years she adventured often, to many fascinating and beautiful places.  Sometimes it was modest camping without hydro or running water, other times it was luxury travel.  All of it was happily at the side of her husband of 54 years, Dave. Joan had a classic style and preferred the simple comforts of sunshine, warm breezes, silly jokes, the library, country music, feeding the birds or a good drink whenever she connected with her friends and family.

From scratch, Joan balanced an upward career trajectory and raising a family with grace then retired from the Township of Uxbridge, as a long-serving Deputy at Treasurer at the age of 53.  Soon after, she brought her tireless work ethic into retirement and was recognized by Community Care Uxbridge for another 10 years of service as a trusted volunteer.

Joan held the Uxbridge community in high esteem, and was proud to attend school, reside there and witness the town as it changed and developed over the years.

A special thank you to the dedicated professional team at PRHC.  They consistently provided expertise and top notch supports with kindness to Joan as she bravely navigated her journey of care.

As expressions of sympathy, donations to Peterborough Regional Health Care Centre Foundation would be appreciated by the family.  Cremation has been entrusted to Low & Low Funeral Home, Uxbridge.  Friends are invited to share memories, express condolences or make donations www.lowandlow.ca.