Margaret Ellen Smith

Margaret was predeceased by her parents Roger Lloyd Leggatt and Ethel Margaret (Perry) Leggatt; brother-in-law Stan Smith and his wife Audrey; sister-in-law Jeanne Smith; brother-in-law Brian Mossing; nephew Robert Smith and niece Tina (Leggatt/Foy) Lees.

She is lovingly remembered by her husband Leslie Smith; brothers Tom Leggatt (Loretta) and David Leggatt; sisters Donna Mossing and Linda Brown (Reg); children Paul Smith (Susan) and Melonee Rose (Michael); grandchildren: Josh Rose, Matthew Smith (Victoria), Rachelle Smith (Michael), Emma Rose and Stephen Smith and her great-granddaughter Leslie Smith.

Margaret grew up on the family farm near Willmar, Saskatchewan. She was an outstanding student while attending rural school in both Enniskillin and Erin and completing high school in Arcola. She followed her beloved mother into the teaching profession and became a dedicated educator at age 20. Her incredible career began in rural one room schools, Pheasant Plain and for a time at Kenlis School. Once her family became school age, she returned to teaching Kindergarten in Abernethy Elementary then K, grade 1 and 2 for almost 40 years. She then taught kindergarten in Balcarres until she retired at 65. Margaret continued to substitute teach and support temporary leaves until the age of 70. Even after decades passed, she remembered students’ names and many stayed in touch. Margaret was passionate about learning and inspired curiosity in others. Her spirit was infectious and her involvement in her community unwavering.

Community involvement was an integral part of Margaret's identity where she explored initiatives to improve the area she loved. Margaret was one of the first directors of the new Katepwa Lake Golf course and organized yearly Ladies Golf Tournaments. She helped establish the Trans Canada Trail at Lake Katepwa, as well as the development of the Lake Katepwa Historical Trail. She orchestrated the production of the Abernethy and Katepwa history books within the same year. Margaret organized the annual Abernethy Fair Pet Show and was one of the original members of the Katepwa Lions club where she remained until the age of 80. Margaret was an avid golfer, gardener, curler, pickle ball and sport enthusiast and was always up to the challenge of playing a good card or board game. Margaret was and continued to be through life a social butterfly enjoying dancing and music, creating a multitude of valued connections.

While teaching at Pheasant Plain School, she met a handsome young farmer, Leslie Smith, married and devoted their lives to their family, teaching and farming. Les and Marg recently celebrated their 67th wedding anniversary in November 2025. They enjoyed many years of camping, traveling, golfing and spending winters in Yuma, Arizona. Family time was a priority. Margaret would stop what she was doing to take care of their grandchildren at home and in Alberta. She supported grandchildren's sports and activities: football, hockey, music and dance. 'Granny' was one of their greatest fans and they were hers.

Margaret loved life and was a fierce fighter. In 2012 she suffered from stomach cancer which required her to have her stomach removed. Although doctors predicted 3 months to 5 years, she continued to thrive for another 14 years. Last year, Margaret broke her hip and her health began to decline. This past year, Margaret cherished her time in Regina at Green Falls Landing Independent Senior home. She shared her joy of laughter and friendship with others. This past month she was cared for at the Indian Head hospital, where she was surrounded by the amazing doctor, care staff, friends and family. The family is deeply appreciative of the compassion and care she received.

Margaret's life was a full one. She will leave behind a legacy of strength, a love of learning and caring friendships. She loved unconditionally and was loved in return. Margaret is an amazing role model for her family and will forever be remembered.

A memorial service will take place in All Saints' Anglican Church Cemetery, 350 S. Katepwa Drive (highway 56), District of Katewa, Saskatchewan on Sunday, July 5, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. A social will follow in the Katepwa Beach Family Nine Gazebo.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Margaret’s memory may be made to the Indian Head Hospital; Indian Head & District Hospital Foundation Inc., Box 1547, Indian Head, SK S0G 2K0 or etransfer to this email: [email protected].