Obituary of DONNE WATSON SMITH, BA

SMITH, DONNE WATSON, BA, MDCM; Physician, Surgeon and Community Leader, died at Saint John Regional Hospital, on September 19, 2007, aged 85. Youngest and last surviving child of Cullen Blair Smith and Gwendolyn (Lynch) Smith of Shubenacadie, Nova Scotia, he was pre-deceased by his brother Blair and sister Kathleen. Beloved husband of 60 years of Mary Aileen (Somerville); cherished father of Donne Watson Jr. (Terrence Stewart); Richard Charles (Deborah McLennan); and Mary Barbara; loving grandfather of Mary Hilary Graham, he is survived by many nieces and nephews and an extended family of friends and co-workers. Born June 24, 1922 in Shubenacadie he was a graduate of Mount Allison University and Dalhousie University School of Medicine, graduating in 1945. In 1947 he married Sandy Somerville and moved to Shubenacadie to open his practice. In 1950 they moved to St. Andrews, New Brunswick where for the next 55 years he demonstrated a commitment to patients and the medical community of Charlotte County. Honoured with the Freedom of the Town of St. Andrews in 1982, he personified “that type of human being that makes a good community better”. He cared for his community’s medical needs with a steadfastness common to physicians of his era and a commitment to attend his patients at all hours and at any place. For that dedication he was also awarded in 1992 a Life Membership to the New Brunswick Medical Society. Donne’s professional life extended into community leadership. A former member of the St. Andrews Town Council, he was Chairman of the District School Board when the Sir James Dunn Academy was opened. He was an Executive Member of the Boys Scouts and the John Howard Society and President of the Kiwanis Club and Heather Curling Club. From the 1960’s to the 1980’s he assisted Lady Beaverbrook in many of her philanthropic endeavours through the Sir James Dunn Foundation. He was an original member of the Sir James Dunn Arena Board of Management and Chairman for many years. A co-founder of the St. Andrews Health Centre, he also chaired the Sir James Dunn Scholarship Committee. Donne had a lifelong commitment to education in both his family and his community. He supported and encouraged his children in all their endeavours throughout their lives. A man of liberal outlook and quiet temperament he led by example despite health challenges lasting over 30 years. His was a long and fulfilled life, which encompassed his profession, community and family. He will be missed. Donne’s Service of Remberance will take place at The Wesley United Church, 77 William Street, St. Andrews on Saturday, September 22nd at 2:00 pm. At his request, his remains will be cremated with no prior viewing. Immediately following the service a reception will be held at The Sir James Dunn Memorial Building, Royal Canadian Legion, 270 Queen Street, St. Andrews. The family requests that in lieu of flowers donations be made in Donne’s memory to The St. Andrews Health Centre Inc., a registered charity, or another charity of the donor’s choice. Arrangements have been entrusted to the care and direction of Humphreys Funeral Home, 20 Marks Street, St. Stephen, NB (506 - 466- 3110). Online condolences may be placed at www.humphreysfh.com