Ronald Smith

Ronald Smith of Douglastown passed away at the Miramichi Regional Hospital on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at the age of 61. Ronnie is survived by his wife Paulette, his son Colby, his brother David, his sister Bonnie and his father Windsor, along with many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his mother Marjorie, his brother Robert and his sister Patricia.

To many, Ronnie was a dedicated tradesman, a loyal friend, and a master conversationalist. But to his family, Ronnie was their rock. His family was truly his whole world. He was a man who lived for work. He was born into the electrical trade. He started out learning the ropes with the family business, but he was also driven to pursue his own goals. That drive led him to hone in on his skills with various electrical contractors, Corrections Canada, and then eventually spending ten years working in the oil sands in Alberta, which he absolutely loved. He later returned home and worked with LiteWorks, and finally ending his career at ShadComm.

He truly was a tradesman through and through—a real jack of all trades. There simply wasn't anything he couldn't do. If he didn't know how to fix or build something, he would seek out the knowledge or teach himself. And if he ever hit a wall, he always "knew someone who knew someone" to get the answers.

He was incredibly grateful for the people he worked with over the years. He spoke so highly of many along the way and made lifelong friends.

No matter where Ronnie was working, he showed up when he was needed and gave 110 percent every single day. Now, that may or may not have included some attitude and opinions at times, but he always meant well because he cared deeply about his work.

But as much as he lived for the work, he lived even more for his family and being around people. We all know that a "15-minute trip to town" never actually took 15 minutes. It was always at least an hour. If he ran into anyone, he would stand and talk for ages. He called it "socializing and networking." It didn't matter if they were miles away from home at a random gas station; he would still take half an hour longer than anyone else because he’d inevitably find someone to chat with. He just loved connecting with people. He deeply cherished his friendships. Every time he finished talking with them, he’d smile and say, "Always a good laugh."

Above all else, his heart belonged to his family. He loved them fiercely and would do absolutely anything for them. They were his pride and joy. Even when he was far away working, he made sure they were completely looked after—if he couldn't be there himself, he’d call up someone to ensure they had everything they needed. His son was his absolute greatest source of pride, and he never missed a chance to talk about how proud he was of all of Colby’s accomplishments. Ronnie looked after his family, and he taught them what it meant to work hard, to help each other and to have someone’s back no matter what.

One final thing Ronnie always said was that when the time came for him to leave this earth, he wanted his friends and family to gather and have a drink of Captain on him. He will be watching from above, tipping one back too, and doing the backlot shuffle. So, the next time you gather, enjoy a Captain in his memory, take a picture and share the memories with his family.

Ronnie’s family extends a heartfelt thank you to James Dickie of ShadComm for his friendship with Ronnie over the years and for his kindness to Ronnie and his family.

A special thank you also to Camille, Lenny, David, Charles, Jason, Mike, Allan, Percy, Gary, and Jeff for always checking in with Ronnie this past year, keeping his spirits up and for your friendships. You all meant a great deal to him.

Thank you to Arlene whose thoughtfulness and genuine kindness meant the world to our family during this difficult time.

Thank you to the teams at the Moncton City and Miramichi Hospital Oncology Units and to the Extra Mural Nurses for their compassion and care shown to Ronnie. A special thank you to the Nurses on 4 West and in Palliative Care, especially to Josh, Patrice and Elaine, who were exceptional in their care with Ronnie.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at 11 am, at St. Mark's United Cemetery in Douglastown, with Rev. Geza Szemok officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Miramichi SPCA would be appreciated.

Funeral arrangements are in the care of Northumberland Funeral Home & Crematorium, 102 Pleasant St., telephone (506) 622-7741.

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