ANTIGONISH, N.S. — A celebration of life will be held tonight (Monday, Sept. 9) for Jessica Smith in Antigonish.
Smith, the executive director of the Pictou County United Way, passed away Sept. 4 after a battle with cancer. She was 44.
The celebration of Smith’s life will be held at 5:30 p.m. at Saint Ninian Place, 121 St. Ninian Street, Antigonish. In remembrance of her love of all things pink, people are invited to wear a little something of her favorite color.
Smith, who was raised in Antigonish, was well-known in Pictou County for her work with The United Way and also volunteered with many groups, such as, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Pictou County Volunteer Coalition and Pictou County Community Partners for Children and Youth.
Margie Grant-Walsh, executive director of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Pictou County became a close friend of Smith’s over the last decade and said Smith has made a huge impact.
“There was just something unique about Jessica, where she was able to bring the community together with just her presence.”
During Smith’s time at the helm of The United Way, Grant-Walsh said she helped steer the non-profit into a role as an umbrella organization for non-profits in Pictou County. Smith always found a way to include everybody, she said.
“She just was so nice and people loved her so much.”
United Way of Pictou County past-president Aaron Millen said Smith’s passion about the community was evident to all who knew her.
“She had a vision of everyone coming together for the greater good and making changes for the lives of everyone around us,” he said.
She always had a smile on her face and Millen said it wasn’t long before she had he and his wife and kids involved in various events.
“She had big dreams and big visions and worked tirelessly to make things better for everyone.”
Memorial donations in memory of Smith can be made to Palliative Care Society, IWK or United Way. Online condolences: www.clcurry.com
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