SMEDLEY, John Anthony April 23, 1937 to January 12, 2018. Greatly missed by his many family and friends in both Canada and England. Predeceased by his son Frank (1965-2014), remembered by his children Richard, Andrew, Rachel and David as well as his grandchildren Mitchell, Benjamen, Mathew, Curtis, William, James, Rebecca, Elise and Annabelle. A great loss as well to his friend Ingrid. Remembered by many for his love of music, the opera, ballets and the stage. Born in Darlington, England and emigrating to Canada in 1969 John spent time in both England and Canada. He was a member of many musical groups throughout his life; the Abby Players, Orangeville Music Theater, Opera North, The Backworth Brass Band, The Grainger Singers, Alnwick Community Choir and many others. He was a graduate of Newcastle University, beginning with a geography degree in the 1960s, later in life obtaining a music degree from Wilfred Laurier University and then his masters degree in music back at Newcastle University in the 1990s. He also taught geography for many years at Mayfield Secondary School in Caledon before retiring in 1992. A Celebration of Life gathering will be held at Meaford United Church (7 Boucher Street East, Meaford) on Saturday February the 3rd from 1 – 3pm. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Centre Grey Health Services Foundation or an organization supportive of the arts, culture or the preservation of nature. Arrangements entrusted to Gardiner Wilson Funeral Home, Meaford. gardinerwilsonfuneralhome.com
