Russell (Keith) Smith

A proud Cape Bretoner, Keith was born in Inverness, NS on August 28th,1936 to parents Robert and Isabel Smith and spent his formative years in the close-knit communities of Mabou and Hillsborough-Glendyer.

Growing up on the family dairy farm instilled in Keith a strong work ethic and defined his enduring qualities of perseverance, dedication to community, grace, and a tender regard for all life.

In his late teens his sense of independence led Keith to explore life beyond Cape Breton, first in Ontario and later in Sydney, NS.

It was in Sydney that Keith met Sharon, the love of his life and together they had a wonderful marriage of 62 years.

Returning to his roots, Keith along with Sharon settled in Smithville, where they purchased their homestead, grew their family and created a thriving cattle farm. Keith furthermore continued his lifelong favorite occupations of dozer and snowplow operator with the Department of Highways.

In 1977 with Sharon’s full support, Keith's entrepreneurial spirit and quiet determination shone through when he established Smithville Forestry and Sawmill Ltd.; providing employment and a local source of lumber and forestry services to the surrounding communities until his retirement.

A pillar of his community, Keith throughout his life donated time, skills and resources to many local projects and events. His faith was also central to his life as shown by his long-life involvement with the Hillsborough United Church.

Keith genuinely enjoyed his second home at the family property in Dundee, NS. He took great pleasure and pride involving himself in renovations and improvements to make “the Cottage” a welcoming spot for gatherings and celebrations where family and friends enjoyed each other's company and the majesty of many Cape Breton sunsets on the Bras d’Or Lakes.

In 2019 Keith and Sharon embarked on a new chapter, enjoying their retirement in Bible Hill, NS and more recently in Eastern Passage, NS to be closer to the love and support of family.

Keith will be deeply missed by his beloved wife Sharon, his children Viola (Bernard) & David (Joanne), cherished grandchildren James & Alicia (Kyle) and adored great grandchildren Silas and Nora along with his many extended family members, friends and community members whom he cared for and respected throughout his years.

Keith was pre-deceased by his parents Robert & Isabel, his sister Eleanor and brother Robert (Bob).

The family wishes to express their sincere thanks to the Dartmouth General Hospital Palliative Care Unit for their exceptional care and compassion.

Visitation will be held in honor of Keith at Snow’s Funeral Home, in Halifax on Wednesday May 7th from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. A future announcement will detail the date for a celebration of his life and his interment in Hillsborough, NS.

The family kindly request that those wishing to honor Keith’s memory consider a donation to the Dartmouth General Hospital Palliative Care Unit or the Elmwood cemetery Hillsborough, NS.