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  • Writer's pictureObituary Notice

SMITH, Jacqueline (Jackie)

~ April 14, 1942 - March 14, 2023 ~

Born in London, England within the sound of Bow Bells, to Gladys (Carmichael) and James Smith on April 14, 1942. The Blitz and ongoing bombing shaped her lifelong resilience and determination. Jackie emigrated to Canada in 1963. She died peacefully in Wakefield, QC on March 14, 2023, of cancer and with medical assistance, surrounded by her closest loved ones.


Jackie had a keen interest and expertise in communications and design. She had impeccable taste and a grand sense of style. She was immensely generous, scrupulously honest, and a loyal friend.


She was decisive and wise. She first put down roots in the Ottawa area with Dee Pigeau. She explored Italy with Francine Dalphond and settled with her in Chelsea, joining her company, Ove Design Group. This was one of the most vibrant, creative, and fulfilling periods in her life. She continued to share her passion for life and travel with Miche Kohler. In her sixties, she “ran the roads” of the Gatineau Hills as a real estate agent (Gauvin), serving her clients with integrity and care. She built a home in Chelsea, later sharing it with Barbara Janes. They retired to Newfoundland where Jackie soon became part of a vibrant circle of tennis friends in St Johns. On her seventieth, ABBA-inspired, they serenaded her as their “tennis queen.” She will also be missed by her Gatineau Hills gals. Jackie was fun. She loved to dance. She laughed freely and often.


Of immense significance later in her life, was being lovingly folded into the Gai family in Newfoundland: her soulmate Ale, husband Luis, and their children Joaquin Gai and Ines (Curtis Power). She joyfully welcomed the next generation - Flynn and Jack, her namesake. Those deep bonds were sustained when Jackie moved back to the Hills in 2016 and into Le Havre, Wakefield. Jackie remained close to family in England, notably Iris Stass, and her sons Trevor, Derek, and Kevin.


Jackie endured difficult medical conditions and significant pain over her last decade. Ale was by her side through thick and thin, along with Francine and Miche. She leaves behind her beloved labradoodle, Pablo. She was grateful for the love and support of so many friends as she steadfastly prevailed until this insurmountable last hurdle. Special thanks to Dr. Legrande, Dr. Trudel, friends at Le Havre, and the staff at Brunet Pharmacy and Maison des Collines.


Jackie was a sparkling spitfire in life, flying her last sortie into the bluest of skies.


A Celebration of her life will be held Sunday March 19, 2023, at The Capitanerie at Le Havre, 116 ch. des Collines, Wakefield, 3PM- 5PM.


Donations invited to the marvellous hospice where Jackie spent her last six weeks: https://www.lamaisondescollines.org/en/


Messages of condolence and reminiscence can be sent to Ale Gai at ale72058@gmail.com.

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