Douglas Howard Smith

Douglas Smith, 81, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, in Brampton, Ontario. Born on January 17, 1944, in Kingston, Ontario, Douglas lived a life marked by intellectual curiosity, professional innovation, and quiet acts of kindness.

Douglas pursued higher education at both the University of Toronto and Ryerson, where he cultivated a deep interest in technology and its potential to shape the future. His career led him to work on early iterations of artificial intelligence—an area that would go on to transform the world. Among his many professional roles, he found particular fulfillment working in the education department at IBM. There, he combined his technical expertise with a passion for learning and mentorship.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Douglas was known for his generosity and compassion. He was deeply committed to supporting those around him—especially elders and peers—often taking time to accompany friends and relatives to medical appointments or visiting them in assisted living facilities. These quiet gestures spoke volumes about his character and left lasting impressions on those fortunate enough to know him.

Douglas also had a lifelong passion for collecting firearms. As an avid gun collector, he took great interest in the history and craftsmanship of each piece in his collection.

He is lovingly remembered by his daughters: Keri Smith and her spouse Jefferson Pitcher; and Jennifer Smith and her spouse Jason Robinson. He also leaves behind two cherished grandchildren, Tilden and Ida. Douglas was predeceased by his parents, Howard and Mildred Smith.