Obituary of Rendell Lawrence Smith

It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing of Rendell Lawrence Smith with his loving wife Kathy by his side on May 21, 2025. Born February 28, 1950, in Cornerbrook, Newfoundland, he was a son of the late Lawrence and Nina (Sooley) Smith. Those who knew Rendell knew that his Newfie heritage remained strong throughout his life.

Besides his wife of 24 years, Kathy McCutcheon, he will be forever cherished by his son: Duane Smith, daughters, Tina Smith, Lisa Smith, Tara Henderson, step-sons Matthew Landry and Patrick Landry, grandchildren; Cody, Cassandra, Anthony, Amanda, Ethan, Aiden, Celine, Adrian, Rose, and Andrew, step-grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren; several siblings; nieces; nephews; extended family members; and dear friends, in particular Lionel Strong, Howard Yeomans, and Pam and Jay Melanson.

Rendell had an extensive career in sales, from insurance to signage and everything in between. Most recently, he was selling radio ads with Oldies 96.1. 

It was with great enthusiasm that he spent hours on health initiatives, physical and mental, both in the community with Gentle Path, innumerable hours fundraising, volunteering, and being on the board of directors there, and on his own health in his yoga practice and other wellness activities. He took great pride in his running career—he was not fast, but he was proud to beat his own times.

He loved to play pool with Duane, and anytime his grandkids wanted to join in, he was thrilled to have them and their friends. He always took the time to patiently teach the kids and gently taunted them.  

He loved to dance and sing with no regard for his audience. He loved all types of music with few exceptions. He was especially fond of Buffy St. Marie and played her music on repeat. 

Rendell loved puttering around the house, undertaking various DIY projects to test the strength of his wife’s resolve, and gardening vegetables and flowers.

He was a 35-year friend of Bill W, and was always so grateful for the people he met through recovery programs. He touched so many lives and sometimes we didn’t even know what we were signing up for. 

Any reason to bring the family together to celebrate was welcomed with an amazing warm smile and the hint that an ice cream cake would be an acceptable addition. He would often suggest a BBQ in warmer weather with a glint in his eye suggesting that Tara would be the grill master. 

He took great pride in visiting his kids and grandkids in Toronto.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks and gratitude for the love given during this trying time. 

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John, NB (506-634-7424). Visitation will be held from Brenan’s on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, from 2:00 – 4:00 & 6:00 – 8:00 PM. A celebration of Rendell’s life will take place in Brenan’s Funeral Home Chapel on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at 11:00 AM with a reception to follow. For those who desire, please bring your favourite reception dish to share.

For those who wish, memorial contributions would be greatly appreciated to the Gentle Path Counseling Services or Toronto Sick Kids Hospital. Online condolences may be shared at www.BrenansFH.com.