Obituary of Colleen Smith

Died peacefully, surrounded by her family at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance on Monday, April 18, 2016, at the age of 66. Colleen is survived by her beloved husband John, her five adoring children, Lesli (Todd) Jeffrey, Laurie Smith, Shelley (Kevin) Barnard, Lindsey (Mark) Denomy, and Greg (Jessica) Smith. Forever loved by her grandchildren Abby, Maggie, Trent, Sarah, Darby, Ben, Libby, Parker, Sydney and Boone. Also survived by siblings Darlene (Chris) Hallam, Kathy (Mark) Bunker, Stan (Connie) Gallerno, Mary (Rob) Schweitzer, sister-in-law Donna (Brian) Robertson, close friend Maureen (Dave) Street, dear Aunt Phyllis and many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by her infant son Michael Smith (1976) and brother Paul Gallerno (2012). Colleen was born in 1949 to Stanley and Francis (Keogh) Gallerno. As the oldest of 6 children, her passion for family and serving others began at an early age and continued on throughout her entire life. Colleen was known as a dedicated and compassionate nurse. She loved her work with children at Tecumseh Public School. As a devout Catholic of deep faith, Colleen served as C.W.L. President and was involved in several other church ministries. Colleen most loved to entertain family and friends, travel, and tend to her gardens. Above all Colleen loved time with her grandchildren, all of whom she had a close, personal relationship with. Friends and relatives may visit at the Funeral Home, 156 William St. S. Chatham (519-352-5120) on Friday, April 22, 2016 from 2 – 5 and 7 – 9 pm. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, April 23, 2016 at 11 am in St. Joseph’s Church. Friends and family are asked to gather in the church for Sharing of Memories at 10:40 am. Burial will be in St. Anthony’s Cemetery. A special thank you is extended to the wonderful staff at C.K.H.A., Fourth floor, Medicine A. Our deepest gratitude for the love and prayers from our friends and family. Donations to the C.K. Hospice or the Canadian Food for Children would be appreciated.