April 21, 1948 - March 7, 2024
James 'Jim' Arthur Smith, surrounded by love, passed away peacefully on March 7, 2024, at the age of 75, at the Stratford General Hospital.
Jim leaves behind his devoted partner, Ruth O’Brien, and is also survived by his former wife, Penny, the mother of his children, Marty and Jennifer Brodhagen (Jason). He was a loving and proud grandfather to Rae and Leandra. Born in Stratford, Jim was the cherished brother of Gary (Pat), Steve (Karyn), and Maureen Atkinson. He was predeceased by his parents, Art and Eileen Smith, as well as his brother-in-law, Paul Atkinson.
James, fondly known as Amos, was known for his witty sense of humour and light-hearted teasing, which brought joy to those around him. Despite spending much of his last year in and out of the hospital, he never lost his sense of humour. Throughout his entire journey, he cracked jokes, played cards, and tried to make his grandchildren laugh. He had a great ability to make others smile and his sense of humour will be missed. As a young man Jim served in the Royal Canadian Navy from 1966 to 1971, regaling loved ones with stories of his time aboard The Fraser ship. In 1971 Amos returned to his hometown of Stratford and enroled in Fanshawe College. He dedicated 30 years of his career as a counsellor at The Oxford Regional Centre, in Woodstock. He played a pivotal role in creating a recycling program that provided employment for the clients he served. Following the closure of the O.R.C, he continued his calling at the Child and Parent Resource Institute in London.
Jim was an active member of the Kinsmen Club in Woodstock, where he served as President three times. He also volunteered as a coach for the Minor Hockey League in Woodstock, all while passionately supporting his favorite hockey team, the Detroit Red Wings. Jim found solace and joy in music, especially rock and roll, often tapping his toe to the beats of “The Band”. But it was on the golf course where he truly found his bliss, spending countless hours perfecting his game and forging lifelong friendships.
In lieu of flowers, donations of sympathy can be made to Easter Seals, as he always had such gratitude for how they help support his granddaughter. Jim's memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, and his spirit will continue to inspire us all to live life with laughter, love, and unwavering dedication to family and community. The family also wish to thank the medical team at the Stratford General Hospital for their kindness and care of Jim.
Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held in the spring.
As expressions of sympathy, memorial donations to the Easter Seals may be made through the W. G. Young Funeral Home, 430 Huron Street, Stratford. 519.271.7411 www.wgyoungfuneralhome.com
