October 8, 1924 – October 19, 2022

Molly closed her beautiful blue eyes on October 19, 2022 at the age of 98 years, with family by her side. She was born on October 8, 1924 in Lower Broughshane, N. Ireland to David and Annie Smith. At the age of 3 months, she departed Ireland on an ocean vessel with her mom, aunt, and 15 month old sister, Lil, to join her dad and settle in Vancouver. From her Irish roots, a very warm heart and generous nature grew. She had a vibrant smile and friendly greeting for all wherever she went, during her long life.

Molly was predeceased by many family members, including her beloved husband of 70 years, Andy, and her two special sisters, Lil and Doreen. She is survived by her 3 children, 7 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren: Don (Eileen), Kelsey, Eleanor; Jane (Jerry), Brandon, Celina and Maya; Deanna (Kent), Hudson, Jenna and Tanner; Dion (Tina), Levi and Nora; Terry (Jan), Natalia, Emily (Michael), Clare.

During her teen years, Molly enjoyed an active social life and spent many weekends dancing. She loved to jitterbug, often winning the top prize of $5.00, which she often spent shopping for a new outfit. It was at a dance in 1945 that she met a quiet, soft spoken Vancouver Canuck who was responsible for her becoming a lifelong hockey fan and sports enthusiast. In 1947 Molly and Andy were married, with hockey taking them to Edmonton for the next 3 years. In 1950, they moved to Kamloops, which remained home for Molly for 72 years.

For a big city girl, Molly quickly grew to love Kamloops, and Kamloops loved her back. She was an outstanding volunteer at schools, the Salvation Army, Ladies Auxiliary to R.I.H., Kamloops Minor Hockey, K.I.B.I.H.T., and the Kamloops Blazers. She worked tirelessly in the 1980’s on the committee to bring a multipurpose complex to Kamloops, and again in the early 1990’s to see the opening of the Riverside Coliseum. She was a colorful fan at so many sporting events spanning seven decades, often ringing her cowbell loud and proud, while watching her Blazers and many of her grandchildren’s games.

Molly’s passion for shopping qualified her as a champion. While she took great pride in her own wardrobe, it was the love for her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren that took her out daily, and sometimes twice a day to hunt for the best bargains. Special times were spent walking many miles in the malls with her grandchildren and around the mini golf course, some days playing 36 holes. She loved everything Christmas, and those extended hours often took her out for a third round of shopping in the evening, and she loved every minute of it. Her friendly nature with staff earned her many perks in the stores, especially in the children’s dept, where she received an early heads up on upcoming clearance specials, and access to her own hold rack. The amazing bargains she took home for her family brought her so much joy.

Molly was blessed to be surrounded by an outstanding group of caring workers during her decline. Thank you to the staff at Berwick for taking on her care during the challenges of the early stages of the pandemic. To Dr. Wynne and all the support staff at KSV who have worn angel wings during the past 2 years, thank you.

One of Molly’s favorite times of day was Happy Hour, enjoying a glass of wine and for Andy, a beer. Tipping your next glass in her memory would surely bring her one last smile.

To express a message of condolence, visit Schoening Funeral Service.

• Date : 2022-10-19
• Location : Kamloops