On January 20, 2024, the world bid a fond farewell to a beloved soul, Eric Lawrence Smith, who peacefully departed at the age of 93. His journey was marked by love, family, and the creation of lasting memories. Central to Eric’s narrative was the enduring love story he shared with his late wife, Marion Smith (nee Houde).
Their bond was a testament to commitment, weathering the seasons of life hand in hand. Although Marion preceded him in death, her memory lived on in Eric’s heart. In the tapestry of Eric’s life, his brothers—Darryl, Eugene, and Wayne Smith—were integral threads. United by blood, shared memories, and familial ties, the Smith brothers stood as pillars of support for one another throughout their lives. Eric’s legacy as a loving father extended to his children—Eldon Smith, Sharron Noreiga, and Kimberly Veld. His role as a father went beyond biological ties; it was defined by the guidance, love, and lessons imparted over the years.
Eldon Smith: Carrying the Torch of Tradition
As the torchbearer of family traditions, Eldon Smith honored the legacy of his father, embodying the values instilled in him. The echoes of Eric’s wisdom resonated through Eldon’s life, creating a bridge that connected past and present. For Sharron Noreiga, Eric was more than a father; he was a source of inspiration, strength, and unwavering support. His paternal love became a guiding light, shaping the woman Sharron grew to become. In Kimberly Veld, Eric’s nurturing spirit found resonance. The seeds of family bonds were planted deep within her, blossoming into a testament of the interconnectedness that defined the Smith family. Eric’s love extended to the younger generation through his cherished grandchildren. Their laughter, curiosity, and energy added vibrant hues to the family tapestry, creating a bridge that spanned across generations. Beyond the boundaries of family, Eric’s professional journey contributed to the tapestry of his life. His work, his achievements, and the relationships formed in the professional realm were threads that interwove with his familial story.
Retirement: Embracing the Joys of Life
In the later chapters of his life, Eric embraced retirement with grace, finding joy in the simplicity of everyday moments. Whether it was savoring a quiet morning coffee or basking in the warmth of family gatherings, Eric understood the art of appreciating life’s small pleasures. Eric was more than a family man; he was an integral part of the broader community. His friendships, camaraderie, and contributions to the community became threads that enriched the social tapestry of his life. As Eric Lawrence Smith peacefully transitioned at Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital, surrounded by the love of those who held him dear, his departure marked not an end but a transition—a continuation of his journey beyond the earthly realm.
A Celebration of Life: Honoring Eric’s Memory
In the wake of Eric’s passing, family and friends gather not to mourn the loss but to celebrate a life well-lived. His legacy endures in the memories shared, the lessons taught, and the love that continues to bind the Smith family together. As we reflect on the life of Eric Lawrence Smith, we do so with gratitude for the imprints he left on hearts and lives. His story, woven with threads of love, family, and community, remains an enduring legacy—a tapestry of a life beautifully lived.
The dates on Eric’s memorial signify the temporal bounds of his earthly existence, but the impact of his life extends beyond the confines of time. In the hearts of those who knew and loved him, Eric’s spirit lives on, a gentle reminder of the enduring power of love and family.
