James Jefferson "Jeff" Smith

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of James Jefferson (Jeff) Smith of Toronto, Ontario on November 13, 2024, at the age of 69. Jeff is survived by his devoted and loving son, Tobias Barron-Smith (Olivia), his brother Dan and sister Pamela (Graham). He was predeceased by his loving wife and partner, Marie Anne Barron, and his parents, Stanley and Patricia Smith. Jeff is also survived by his loving brothers and sisters in law in the Barron family, Patricia, Margaret (Michael), Jackie, Nick (Sharon), Steve (Sheila) and Frank (Tina), and many nieces and nephews.

While Jeff was born in Toronto, his youth and formative years were spent growing up at the Smith family home in Mississauga, remembered fondly as 1473 Myron Drive. This home was a popular gathering place for Jeff and his large group of school and neighbourhood friends. From his early days at school Jeff distinguished himself as an academic. He went on to study English literature, political and religious studies at University of Toronto, St. Michael’s College, where he ultimately graduated with a Masters’ Degree. He coined the nickname “Inky”, with a pen in his pocket and a penchant for essay writing in his beautiful cursive style. He remained a lifelong avid reader.

Jeff was an extremely talented golfer. In his youth, many a day were spent on Lakeview Golf Course with brother Dan and the neighbourhood boys, and on the course at Torpitt Lodge and Fern Resort during family summer getaways, with Dan and mom Patsy, also avid golfers.

Post graduation Jeff moved on to establish and build his commercial glass business, Mount Pleasant Glass, with his long-time friends and partners, Tommy and Una. Jeff worked incredibly hard, and he was so proud of his work and the business relationships the company maintained.

Jeff met Marie in Toronto, where they both enjoyed the social life that Yonge and Eglington had to offer. They had much in common – a zest for literature, antiques and collectibles and enjoying great food and cool beverages with families and friends. Jeff and Marie married in 1997 and settled into their home on the Danforth. This home was an expression of Jeff’s love for antiques, with many a piece from Myron Drive, and Marie’s pride in her extensive Avon collection. Jeff and Marie are fondly remembered by many local establishments in their beloved Danforth neighbourhood.

Marie was the love of Jeff’s life. Their greatest shared joy was their son Tobias, whom they raised to become a fine young man. Jeff and Tobias were always close, enjoying various sports (playing and watching), family vacations (winter beaches, Torpitt Lodge and Bala, Muskoka), family meals and celebrations.

The past four years have seen Jeff and Tobias become increasingly close in their unwavering support of Marie as she battled with cancer. Marie was their focus; she drew tremendous strength from their support. Jeff’s world changed with the devastating loss of Marie in July 2024. While mourning this loss, he learned that he would have to face his own battle with cancer. With Tobias and the support of both family and friends,

Jeff began that battle, to which he too quickly succumbed. We are grateful he is no longer suffering and, most importantly, he is with his beloved Marie once again. Jeff was a kind and gentle man and we will never forget him.

Join us for a celebration of life on Sunday, December 15 th , 2024, from 1 pm to 4 pm, at the home of Jeff’s sister and brother-in-law, Pam and Graham, at 147 Inglewood Drive, Mississauga. RSVP at pmurphy67@bell.net or text 647-528-5015.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Michael Garron Hospital Foundation would be greatly appreciated, in recognition of the tremendous care from doctors, nurses and all healthcare workers to whom we owe tremendous gratitude.