TRENTON – Esther Evelyn Lafferty (nee Smeltzer), July 13, 1953 – June 12, 2013.
Her fight was short, but brave, and on June 12, 2013, Esther left our world peacefully with her family at her side. She never gave up hope and remained positive and optimistic throughout the ups and downs she faced this past month.
A lifelong resident of Trenton, she was a daughter of the late Thomas Augustus and Blanche Evelyn (Boutlier) Smeltzer.
After dedicating her life to her family and raising her children, she returned to work several years ago at the Glen Haven Manor, which she thoroughly enjoyed. For 40 years, her husband and soul mate, Bill, was by her side and their relationship and the love they shared for one another is a true inspiration for us all. Family was close and dear to her heart, including her children: Tom; Bob and Greg; Susie and Chris. She cherished every moment she had with each of them. She was so proud of her beloved grandchildren, Danté and Novaya, who brought her so much joy. Every night she said to give them a kiss from Nana, which we will continue to honour as Nana will always hold a special place in their hearts. Esther is also survived by sisters: Betty (Ben) Sauntry, New Glasgow; Anne (Mike) Ramsey, Calgary, Alta.; Beverly (Glen) Rogers, Puslinch, Ont.; Rene Smeltzer (Morris McGucy), Gravenhurst, Ont.; Darlene Smeltzer (James Dean), Trenton; brothers: Gary (Phyllis Smith), Union Centre; Stewart (Ruby), Courtenay, B.C.; Ardie, Halifax; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins; as well as her husband’s family, all of whom she loved deeply.
Aside from her parents, she was predeceased by Bill's father and mother Clarence and Sophie Lafferty, her brother John, loving Aunt Marion Robson, and special nephew Jeremy.
Aside from her family, Esther spoke often of her extended family – her colleagues and friends from work. Her drive, passion and commitment was indescribable and she was a friend to all those she encountered. She spoke on many occasions this past month about how her family continued to grow, including all her angels on 8A Centennial Building at the VG Hospital.
The family will receive visitors 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Friday, June 14th at the R.H. Porter Funeral Home, Trenton. Funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, June 15th at Christ the King Roman Catholic Church with Father Gary MacPherson presiding. Interment will be in Christ the King Cemetery, Trenton.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the oncology unit (8A) Centennial Building, VG Hospital. Perennial plants for her garden are welcome to allow for her joy of her garden to carry on.
Condolences may be sent by visiting: www.rhporter.ca
"In your final hours, you looked up and said 'I'm blessed, I'm blessed'. We too are blessed to have shared this time with you."