SMITH, Jan Leah Smith -
25/07/1956 – 27/01/2023
On Friday 27th January 2023, Jan Leah Smith (Babcock) passed away in her home in Chilliwack, British Columbia.
Born to Lorena and Thurlo Babcock, in Ottawa, Ontario on the 25th July 1956.
Jan is survived by her partner Gary Popesqu, daughters Chelsea (39) and Kimberly (36), as well as her siblings Lyle, Lynn and Mark.
She was a beloved Grandmother to Madison and "Nana-Jan" to her step-grandchildren Nathan and Sebastian Beadle, and new granddaughter Amelia.
Jan lived in many places, including Ottawa, Halifax Nova Scotia, Prospect Bay, Victoria, London UK, Maryland, and California. Then Kingston Ontario, then to Chilliwack British Columbia.
She attended the Centralia College of Agricultural Technology, Ontario, for Fashion Design.
Later she earned her Lab Technology certifications at Nova Scotia Community College and worked as a Lab Technologist.
Jan was an exceptional and passionate seamstress.
She made everything from pajamas to fancy wear to linens for her family, friends and herself. When her children were younger, she was very involved in the PTA, sports teams, and school activities She portrayed a strong example that being active, participating in teams and having fun was important attribute.
Jan’s personal joys also included: Travelling - all over the continental USA, Canada and the UK, and Morocco, Hawaii, Fiji, New Zealand, Cuba, and Australia; Keeping in touch with friends and family - Despite moving many times; Dancing, especially in Kingston Ontario, ranging from the foxtrot to the cha cha cha; Reading; and caring for her dog companions - Sarah, Sandy, Penny, Chance and Lucy (and was a step-fur-parent to Gary’s Lacey).
They accompanied her on daily long walks through the neighbourhood, and along local creeks and lakes.
Jan also never shied away from a power drill, table saw or paint. She was a DIY master from outdoor ponds complete with waterfalls, to elaborately themed bedrooms for her children.
Jan was also an avid camper, thriving in the outdoors especially in group settings. Always ready for family bike rides, kayaking, canoeing, or paddle boating.
She was known for her festivities held annually at Sunday Lake, Ontario in the 90's, coordinating events and activities for a large group of her friends and family, always including all ages of all families.
We also wanted to say a special acknowledgement to Gary Popesqu for being with Jan when she passed on the 27th January.
She loved him very much as well as he was one of her very best friends.
Jan left us way too soon, but she lived a full life. She was passionate, creative and strong.
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