Obituary of Joan Linda Smith

June 2, 1948-November 8, 2025

It is with profound love and sadness that the family of Joan Linda Smith announce her passing on Saturday, November 8, 2025, her daughter’s birthday.

Joan was born on June 2, 1948 to her loving parents the late William and Rhobena (Estabrooks) Richardson.  Joan came into this world to make it a better, kinder and warmer place and that’s exactly what she did every single day.

Joan was the devoted wife of her lifelong partner and best friend, Ralph Smith, whom she married on July 22, 1972.  Together they built a beautiful life filled with love,  laughter and too many adventures to mention.  Rarely seen apart, Ralph and Joan attended every sporting event, horse show, cow show and all activities involving their children and grandchildren.

A loving home maker, Joan dedicated her life to caring for others.  Over the years, she opened her heart and home to 97 children; nurturing each one as if they were her own.  Her kindness, patience and gentle spirit touched generations of families.

Joan’s greatest joys were her grandchildren and great grandchildren.  She made sure everyone was well fed, happy and surrounded by love and that no one ever left her home hungry.  Her marble cake and lemon pie were requested near and far.  Joanie’s special breakfasts and her famous burgers will never be the same.

For years, Joan and Ralph enjoyed showing their Percheron horses throughout the Maritimes.  They participated in each wagon train which she enjoyed immensely.

For the last number of years, she and Ralph have enjoyed selling their eggs, jams, pickles and dishcloths at the Sackville Farmer’s Market.

Joan’s favorite holiday was Christmas.  She was the magic that made it so special for her entire family with her meticulous ornament placements, particular wrapping, delicious baked goods, her famous turkey dinners and cherry cheesecake.  She would sit for hours and admire her Christmas tree.

Joan is survived by her beloved husband, Ralph; her daughter, Kimberly (Shawn) Bacon of Leicester, NS; her son,  Jeffrey (Hilary) of Bouctouche, NB; her six grandchildren, Carter (Jenna), Lynden, Carly (Riley), Jenna (Will), Rileigh, Aidan; her two great-grandchildren, Jayce and Addilynn.

She is also survived by her four siblings, Davis (Carol) Richardson, Jessie (Steve) Boorne, Bill (Peggy) Richardson and Joy (Charles) Estabrooks as well as her cousin and best friend, Tena Baker.

Besides her parents, she was pre-deceased by her brother, Michael Todd in infancy.

Joan will always be remembered for her unwavering devotion to family and her ability to make everyone feel loved and cared for.  Her legacy of love, laughter and generosity will live on in all who knew her.

Family flowers only.  Memorial donations in Joan’s memory may be made to the family.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Erin Campbell and the staff of Campbell’s Funeral Home, 89 Bridge Street, Sackville N.B. (506) 364-8188. In keeping with  Joan’s wishes, cremation has taken place. Family and friends are invited to a celebration of life on Friday, November 14, 2025 at Middle Sackville Baptist Church gymnasium, 14 Church Street, Sackville NB from 1-3pm and from 5-8pm. Internment will take place at a later date.

On-line condolences and sharing of memories may be forwarded to the family through our website www.campbellsfuneralhome.com or by visiting the funeral home Facebook page.

www.campbellsfuneralhome.com