Diane Marlene Gail Lacey Smith

      When someone is identified as a natural leader, certain images come to mind. First thoughts are of a no-nonsense, tough-minded, dedicated and disciplined person. This description accurately fits Diane Marlene Gail Smith who was indeed a born manager. She will be remembered as being highly organized, practical and realistic. She was a person who always carried a strong sense of duty with her throughout her life. Possessed with traditional “old school” morals, Diane was an individual who clearly communicated to those around her just who she was and what she was all about. Everyone acquainted with Diane knew her as a well-respected woman who was a stable force in her community.

      Diane was born on January 6, 1942 at Wellesley Hospital in Toronto, Ontario. Her parents were James and Margaret Lacey. Diane was raised on Glen Road, in the city of Toronto. Even as a youngster, Diane learned to be objective and decisive. Her faith in the principles of authority and dependability was something that she carried with her throughout her life.

      As a young girl, Diane was able to put her natural abilities to work. She was a bit like the sergeant of the family, helping to make sure that the others did what they should do and that they avoided those things they weren’t supposed to. In other words, she liked to organize and direct. Diane was raised with one sibling, her younger sister, Gail.

      Diane's matter-of-fact attitude about most things was developed during her childhood. As a young girl, Diane enjoyed being part of teams, and organizations and groups of other kids who shared similar interests. Diane took part in chasing boys and swimming. In her spare time she liked to swim and hang out with friends.

      Diane was sociable and approachable. Because she was always so straightforward in how she approached relationships, friends and family knew that what they saw was always what they got. She enjoyed the camaraderie of being with a group of friends. When Diane was a member of a group, her interaction worked to keep the others grounded. She wasn’t afraid to confront her friends and, when necessary, she challenged them to stick to the task at hand. Those close to Diane came to expect her high standards of performance. While growing up, some of her best friends were Barbara Martin and Nancy. Later in life, she remained very close friends with Barbara Martin.

      An objective and conscientious individual, Diane reveled in the security of her family. On October 27, 1972 Diane exchanged wedding vows with Dave at the Don Mills United Church inToronto, Ontario. One of Diane’s most endearing qualities was her uncanny ability to remember important dates and anniversaries, and her unending enthusiasm for organizing a celebration for her family and friends.

      Diane was ever watchful of her children. She worried about them and was deeply concerned for their development as they grew up. She maintained a firm hand in their upbringing. Diane would give her stamp of approval to their requests, as long as she could see how they might benefit. She also had the ability to enforce the rules as needed to ensure that her children were properly raised. Diane was blessed with 3 children, a son, David and two daughters, Lynn and Deborah. They were also blessed with 5 grandchildren, Amanda, Diane, Daniel, Tyler, and Angelica, as well as 6 great-grandchildren, Leah, Clayton, Connor, Julian, Gabriel and Dylan.

      Being a hard worker who praised efficiency, Diane was always striving to make improvements where they were necessary. She was able to analyze situations and problems, keeping everything and everyone on track. An excellent project supervisor, Diane was a person who could quickly make decisions based on the information available. She worked cooperatively and expected the same from her colleagues. In both her personal and professional environments, Diane upheld her standards. Her primary occupation was a homemaker, being very busy raising her children and grandchildren. Diane was a team player who certainly lived out the motto of “give me a job, and I will get it done.”

      Diane approached her leisure time in the same manner that she approached her life. A person who enjoyed being neat and orderly and one who understood the nature of things, she appreciated the hours she was able to devote to her various hobbies. Her favorite pursuits were Bingo. Diane was content to enjoy her favorite pastimes alone but was also willing to share her interests with others.

      Diane was a lover of animals and cherished her pets. Diane’s favorite cats were named Buttons, Buddy, Crapper, Gizmo and Ghost. They were best friends for 31 years.

      Diane passed away on October 5, 2008 at Scarborough General Hospital after fighting a very brave battle against cancer. She is survived by her husband Dave, her son David, her daughters Lynn and Deborah, her 5 grandchildren Amanda, Diane, Daniel, Tyler and Angelica and her 6 Great-Grandchildren Leah, Clayton, Connor, Julian, Gabriel and Dylan. Services were held at Giffen-Mack Funeral Home and Cremation Centre, Toronto, Ontario on Thursday, October 9. Diane was later laid to rest in Pine Hills Cemetery.

      All who knew her would agree that Diane was a pillar of the community. She lived her life with her feet firmly on the ground. She had a strong work ethic, was pragmatic in her thoughts and acts, and constantly sought the means for self-improvement. She was willing to share her ideas and knowledge for the benefit of others, so that they could accomplish more in their lives. Diane Marlene Gail Smith did her best to ensure that her family, friends, loved ones, co-workers, and everyone whose life she touched was given the chance to become a better person.