Lydia Mae Smith

72 - Sydney

Lydia Mae (Black) Smith, age 72 of Sydney passed away peacefully at Seaview Manor Glace Bay, Saturday, February 1, 2014 due to complications from Multiple Systems Atrophy (Shy-Drager Syndrome). Born in Sydney on May 20, 1941, she was the daughter of the late Neil and Evelyn (Hudson) Black.

She was active in sports in her youth and remained a sports fan for her entire life, being a season ticket holder for the Cape Breton Oilers and the Screaming Eagles for many years. She was a quilter, crocheter, wood carver and enjoyed times with fellow members of their Wednesday night Rummoli club. She was a past member, including a term as president, of the Sydney Kinette Club, and canvassed for various charities. She was an avid bowler for many years with the Commercial League, General Office Ladies League and the Coffee Breakers. A loving and caring woman, after raising her own family, she spent time being an in-home care giver for younger children in three other families, forming an extra special bond with Ellen Penny and her mother Anna Mae Muise. She was a long time member of St. Joseph's Church, in Sydney.

She is survived by her husband of 52 years Fabian; four sons Clayton (Karen), Brooklyn Queens Co., Gregory (Yanny), Vancouver, Stephen (LeeAnn), Antigonish, and David (Jane), Sydney River, two grandchildren Jennifer and Darren. She is also survived by three brothers: Neil (Trudy), Courtenay, BC, Lloyd (Joan), Markham, ON and John (Connie), Calgary, AB and one sister Lorraine (James Ferguson), Orleans, ON, and many nieces and nephews. The family would like to thank the VON Day Care and the staff of 4B-3B at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital for their care during Lydia's illness. We also would like to especially acknowledge the special staff at Seaview Manor for your kindness, caring, compassion and humor. You are very special to us and we will forever remember your kindness while Lydia was at Seaview Manor, you truly went above and beyond and we thank you.

Visitation will take place Thursday, February 6th, 2-4pm and 7-9pm at TW Curry Parkview Chapel, George St. Sydney. Funeral mass will take place at St. Joseph's Church on Friday February 7th at 10 am with Fr. Bill Burke officiating. Family flowers only, donations may be made to the Cape Breton Palliative Care Unit, Seaview Manor or charity of choice. Online condolences may be sent to www.twcurry.com.