SMITH, Jeanie F. - 68, of River Hebert, Cumberland County passed away Friday, September 3, 2010 surrounded by her loving family. Born on October 11, 1941 in Springhill to the late Raynold and Gladys (O'Rourke) Melanson, Jeanie spent her childhood and teenage years growing up in the small town of Parrsboro. As a vibrant young waitress at Wheaton's Restaurant, a fun loving babysitter to several families, and a kind and gentle caregiver to the elderly, she was well known, loved and respected. In February 1966 she married David Smith, relocated to River Hebert and quickly infiltrated the community with her vivacious spirit, quick wit and determination and passion for helping others. As a loving and supportive Mommy to her three girls, she symbolized strength, fortitude and hard work, and embodied kindness, consideration and generosity, holding high expectations in their ability to always be thoughtful and gracious. Throughout her years, she positively influenced the lives of many children. As a majorette teacher in River Hebert and the neighbouring communities, she focused more on self confidence, inclusion and equality than on talent and ability. As the business owner of Smith's General Store and Take Out from 1975 to 1985, she measured success not in profits and possessions, but in the opportunity to encourage, inspire and teach countless teenagers as a friend, confidante, and sometimes surrogate parent. Jeanie's smile, laughter, humour and love for people quickly drew others to her. As a friend the value she placed on loyalty, honesty and truth, allowed her life to be filled with an abundance of deep and lasting friendships. Accomplishing much throughout her life as a board member, community volunteer and charity fundraiser, Jeanie was most proud of the instrumental role she played in organizing three successful Parrsboro School Reunions (1989, 1994 and 1999) and the longstanding record she held as a top individual fundraiser in the Run for the Cure. Jeanie is survived by her husband, David Hazen Smith, River Hebert; daughters, Lisa Marie (Troy Colpitts), New Glasgow; Lori Maureen (Billy Kyle), Lakelands; Lynn Margaret (Stephen Rector), Musquodoboit Harbour; a grandson, Shane Smith (Ashley Smees), Halifax; sisters, Geraldine Canning; Nancy (Colin) Curleigh, both of Parrsboro; Joanne Courtney, Massachusetts; Donna Perkins, Dartmouth; sister-in-law, Dora Melanson, Hubbards; several nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews; chosen family, Rick, Karen, Joey and Chris Rhodes; Cheryl (Wurster), and their families. She was predeceased by her brother, Byron Melanson; brother-in-laws, Peter Courtney and Aubra Canning. Friends and family are invited to celebrate Jeanie's life and honour her legacy, by sharing memories and expressing condolences at Smith's Funeral Home, Parrsboro on Friday, September 10, 2010 from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. with a Celebration of Life Mass at Saint Brigid's Catholic Church, Parrsboro on Saturday [September 11, 2010] at 2:00 pm, Father David MacDonald officiating. Reception to follow at the Gallagher's Home (417 Main Street, Parrsboro). The family requests in lieu of flowers, offerings in Jeanie's memory emulate her lifelong acts of kindness and allow her legacy to live on in the spirit of thoughtfulness, send a card to a friend, help out someone less fortunate, or do a kind deed. For those also wishing to make a monetary donation, Jeanie's preferred charities were: Make a Wish, The Monseigneur Henri Cormier Lodge, Moncton and Cumberland Regional Health Care Centre Foundation, Amherst.
"You cannot do a kindness too soon, for you never know how soon it will be too late"
Ralph Waldo Emerson
“Dear David and family, I was so saddened to hear of Jeanie's passing! She was an incredible woman with courage and strength in abundance. She made many of us laugh at the Chemo Cafe and helped us to maintain that spirit of conquering all that is set before us!! She was my strength and my hero as I faced cancer. She made me believe that laughter really was the cure and so we laughed and laughed and laughed!!
She has spoken to me of all her family and the love she had for all of you was an incredible sight to witness. And as you know she took me under her wing and I have beeen thankful for her presence in my life ever since that first day!!
I am so sorry that I was not able to make the funeral today but please know that I am celebrating her life here in Moncton as I am sure many others are doing!!
You are all in my prayers and my heart during this time.
With much love and sincerest sympathies,
Petula ”
“My thoughts and prayers are with you today and in the days to come. She was a great person and always full of life. ”
“Uncle David, Lisa, Lori and Lynn,
Aunt Jeannie was such a presence; full of spirit and humour. She always made me laugh. Our thoughts are with all of you.
George and Jen Curleigh
”
“hi,sorry for the loss
saw Jeanie when i lost my dad,she made me smile,think about it at times.
it will take a long time but memories will never go away.all of u take care and be strong for one another.
KAREN”
“We have lost such a pillar in our community. Jeannie was always there for everyone. She even hosted a bridal shower for me with the pot of gold and we played baseball. Everyone commented on how much fun it was. Jeannie smiled a lot and loved everyone.
When I read Jeannie's obituary, the part about helping someone in Jeannie's memory really set my mind to work and I decided to help my sister who is having a particularly hard time at the moment. Thanks Jean. It sure is in keeping with your character and spirit.
To David, Lisa, Lori and Lynn, my thoughts are with you and I know she has left a huge hole in your hearts. I hope that the memories and everyone's expressed love for Jeannie help to fill it.
Ann ”
“David, Lisa, Lori and Lynn
Please except my sincere condolences.
I have such fond memories of Jeannie.
She was such a kind and generous person and so much fun to be around. She was such a special person and will be truly missed.
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this very diffucult time.
Dorothy”
“David ,Lynn,Lisa and Lori please accept our sincere condolences. Jeanie will be forever in our hearts. She was a great woman and friend to all. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Gary, Dawn & Jillian Proctor”
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