William Desmond Smith

It is with great sadness and respect that we announce the passing of William “Bill” Smith of Ottawa, in his 86th year on January 18th, 2025. Bill was predeceased by his loving wife of 50 years, May (Bell) d. 2010 and son Brad d. 1967. He was the cherished father of Barbara (Bob) and Mark, and a devoted grandfather to Annie and Graham. Bill was the youngest son of James and Annie Smith of Farrellton, Quebec. He is predeceased by siblings, Ralph (Ivy), John (Rose), Wilfred (Norma), Robert (Eleanor), Ronnie (Lima), Keith (Ruth) and Kay (Leonard), sisters and brother-in-laws Madeline and Hector Boily, Keith and Matilda Bell, Marion and Gordon Baldwin. He is survived by sister-in-law Ruth and brother-in-law Leonard, many nieces and nephews and special friend Bonnie McNulty.

Bill graduated from trade school in 1955 in Toronto to pursue a career as a plumber and steamfitter until 1970 when he changed paths and went to work for the NRC until 1999 retiring as a construction contract coordinator for the facility.

A devoted Catholic and proud member of the Knights of Columbus, he was known as a man with great patience, unwavering faith, commitment to family and a genuine interest in those around him. He had a remarkable ability to connect with all he met and retained lifelong friendships with shared interests in the Gatineau Hills, golf, bowling, club and charity activities, road trips and social gatherings with good music.

He took great pride in his dedication and contributions in the successful publishing of the Smith Family tree, and the family heritage dedication event. He will be missed by surviving extended family members across Canada.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 29th, 2025 from 4:00 pm -7:00 pm at McEvoy-Shields Funeral Home (1411 Hunt Club Road). Funeral Mass to take place at St Elizabeth Church on Thursday January 30th, 2025 at 11am. Reception to Follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to ALS Canada, or charity of your choice.