A remarkable woman has left us.

Myrna Smith passed away peacefully with her daughter and son by her side on March 25, 2021 in Nanaimo, BC. She was in her 85th year.

MJ was born in the small town of Pincher Creek, Alberta near the Rocky Mountain foothills. She often spoke of the fierce winds known to howl through Crowsnest Pass and the beautiful flowers that bloomed every spring. Her ashes will be spread here when the family is able to travel.

MJ will be remembered for her Irish wit, grammar etiquette, fierce spirit, generosity and compassion. She had a love for a great debate, travel, the outdoors, politics, indigenous art and cowboy culture.

She is deeply missed by her daughter (Monica), son (Teddy), grandchildren (Jesse, Rowan and Cole), sister (Mish), daughter-in-law (Agatha), son-in-law (Mike), Jim, in-laws (Ania and Jan; Patti and Jim), a close circle of family and friends plus anyone who had the good fortune to know her.

MJ was diagnosed with breast cancer in her last months and lost both her beloved sister (Donna) and mother to the same. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to BC Cancer in her memory.

One of MJ's favourite trips was to Australia where she backpacked alone through hostels and was introduced to singer/storyteller Paul Kelly by the youth she met along her travels. His lyrics remind us we just have to close our eyes to remember she is never too far away.

Close my Eyes by Paul Kelly

When another day has ended
And everything's been said and done
And the lights across the valley
All go out one by one
I close my eyes, I close my eyes and think of you
I close my heavy eyes and that's all I need to do

Sometimes when I get a moment
In the middle of the day
And nothing else needs my attention
I take my chance and slip away
I close my eyes, I close my eyes and think of you
I close my heavy eyes and that's all I need to do

I hear the big trucks changing gears
As they go rolling by my door
The driver counts his days 'til he gets home
If I could only count my days
But I just don't know what's in store
I've been so long on my own

I know there's a singing river
I've heard about the golden shore
But I would pass by all that beauty
Just to be with you once more
I close my eyes, I close my eyes and think of you
I close my heavy eyes and that's all I need to do
I close my weary eyes and that's when I think of you