(Garland) Smith, Eileen Marjorie

Smith (Garland), Eileen Marjorie, 89, of Halifax, peacefully passed away on July 20, 2019 in the QE2 Halifax Infirmary, after living with Alzheimer’s disease for over a decade. Mom was born in Moncton, N.B. on February 1, 1930 to James and Eva Garland and was the youngest of her four siblings. Besides her parents, she was predeceased by her brothers Ennis, Randy, and Harry Garland, as well as her sister Amelda Leach. She was also predeceased by her husband Harold in 2005. She is survived by son Brian (Catherine), Economy; Janet Naugler (John), Windsor; grandsons, Scott (Billie Jean) and Peter Smith, Yellowknife NT; Jeffrey Smith, Halifax; granddaughter, Alexandra Naugler, Halifax. Also survived by great-granddaughters, Kameryn, Emery, and Brielle Smith, Yellowknife NT.

Mom was an excellent seamstress and knitter, and in early years made her own clothing, including beautiful sweaters, suits and coats, plus she also supplied her family’s homes with beautiful custom-made bed linens and draperies. Her inventory of sewing materials was something to behold.  Her other interests included curling, and over the years she was a member of the Mayflower, Canadian Forces Base and the Halifax Curling Clubs. Besides her family, perhaps her greatest passion was the time and effort she volunteered in aid of the annual IWK Kermesse and to the hospital’s gift shop. For 30-plus years, beginning in 1978, she was devoted to operating the Kermesse Bridge Club. The IWK Health Centre honoured her with an IWK Board Recognition Award in 1991 for her tremendous contributions and she received a Life Membership in the IWK Auxiliary in 1996. Many bridge nights were hosted by Mom in her home on Hazelholme Dr., with all enjoying her delicious desserts. Mom also had a great fondness for West Highland White Terriers, “Westies”, and she enjoyed the companionship of many over the years.

Sadly, the onset of dementia gradually put a halt to her interests and efforts, yet she maintained her physical health right up until shortly before her passing. We would like to acknowledge the excellent care she received in two private nursing homes, Jillian Peterson and staff at Golden Age Homecare and Kathy Thompson and staff at Sheldrake Lodge. Her comfort was truly our comfort.

There will be no service or visitation. Online condolences may be made to Snow’s Funeral Home in Halifax. Donations, if so desired, may be made to the Alzheimer Society of Canada, or a charity of your choice.