Thelma Joyce Smith

The family of Thelma Joyce Smith (nee Blackman), age 94 years, sadly announce her passing at home on Saturday, January 29th, 2022.

Thelma was born on July 17, 1927 in Fort William and was a lifelong resident of the city. She grew up in Westfort and married Maurice Smith in July 1954 and had 2 children, Glenda and Rosalyn. They lived in Fort William for many years and then the suburbs on the south side of the city for the past 32 years.

Thelma attended Heath Park Elementary School, Fort William Collegiate Institute and Fort William Business College.

During her work career, Thelma was employed as a Clerk by Great Lakes Paper, Swift Canadian, Reimer Express and the Graphics Printing Department at Confederation College from which she retired in 1984. She was also a Volunteer at McKellar Hospital for a few years and was a member of the singing group the Sweet Adelines.

Her family, home, daily outings in her car until age 90 and frequent trips to Tim Hortons were her main interests. She and Maurice enjoyed camping in their RV during the 1980’s to the early 1990’s. They also took many trips including to Europe in 1974 and to Florida, South Dakota, Las Vegas and Nashville in the 1980’s to the early 1990’s…often accompanied by their youngest daughter, Roz.

Thelma is survived by her daughters Glenda (Ken) Babcock and Roz (Andy) Smiegielski; two grandchildren Amanda and Ryan Babcock (and girlfriend Brittney Unik) and one great granddaughter, Penelope all residing in Thunder Bay. She is also survived by her nieces Linda (George) Charlebois, Arlene Smith, Donna Cameron of Winnipeg and nephew Doug Smith.

Thelma was predeceased by her husband of 65 years, Maurice in 2020, parents Irene and Charles Blackman in 1950 and 1964 respectively, her brother Alfred, a Pilot Officer in RCAF who was killed in the line of duty in 1943 and buried in India, brother Harold in 2000 and sister-in-law Molly in 1998, brother Edward and niece, Lindy Morton of B.C. in 2017.

Cremation has taken place. There will be a family Graveside Service held later in the Spring at Mountain View Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully suggests that donations be made to the Arthritis Society of Canada or to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Canada.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the WESTFORT CHAPEL, 420 West Gore Street at James.