Reverend Canon Gregory Smith
Died: May 6, 2023 | Place: London, Ontario
Obituary
Reverend Canon Gregory William Smith
Suddenly on Saturday, May 6, 2023 in London, Greg passed in his 70th year. He will be greatly missed by his family and large group of loving friends and colleagues.
Beloved soulmate of Marque, loving and proud dad of Andrew (Melissa), Cate, and Paul (Chantel), lovingly remembered by Maureen and his 6 grandchildren; Caitlynn, Dylan, Devyn, Zachary, Lyon and Gabriel and his big sister Sherry (Rick). Predeceased by his parents William Albert and Ruth Smith.
Greg loved spending time in his garden and being out in the beauty of nature. He loved his books, old cheesy musicals, music, and most of all, dance. Known fondly as “Father Greg” to many, he served as a spiritual leader in the Anglican diocese at St. John the Evangelist, (London), St Thomas (Granton), St. Patrick’s (Saintsbury) and St. Paul’s (Kirkton), Transfiguration (London), Christ Church (London), St. Aidan’s (London), St. Michael and All Angels (London), and was the Director of Field Education at Huron College (2013- 2020). Greg was the Director Designate of the Huron Church Camp (1980), The Regional Dean of Medway Deanery (January 1985), Regional Dean of Wellington (1996, 97, 98), Chair of the Huron Hunger Fund (2003) and Canon of the Cathedral of St. Paul (May 27, 2007). Part of his life of service included championing many causes including the Primate’s World Relief and Development fund, the Regional HIV/AIDS Connection, Daya counselling centre, the Justice League and many more. He brought song, joy and connection to many through his work at Huron Church Camp and as an Akela of his cub troop, his Sunday story times, and children’s festivals. Generous of spirit, he was always available to his friends and ready for a good time, good food, some karaoke or, in the right season, Christmas caroling.
Family and friends are welcome for visitation on Thursday, May 11th, 2023 from 2-4 and 6-9 pm at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. The funeral service will be held on Friday, May 12th, 2023 at 10:30 am at St. Paul’s Cathedral, 472 Richmond Street, London. Family and friends are invited to join the funeral service live from the comfort of their homes, by visiting the St. Paul’s Cathedral YouTube channel or their website and clicking on the YouTube logo. Cremation to follow with a private family interment in Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens, London at a later date.
As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Greg may be made to The Primate’s World Relief and Development Fund or Regional HIV/AIDS Connection.
Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com
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I’m so very sorry to hear this. Greg was a spectacular supervisor and mentor in my early days of discernment. He and Marque are a massive part of my faith formation. May Greg rest in peace, his memory always a blessing. xo
When Drew and I wanted to get married and I being the Anglican I am and Drew the United church guy, he only agreed if Greg his high school friend would agree to marry us. Greg was also that person who put everyone at ease and will be so missed.
My deepest condolences to Sherry and family . Greg will be deeply missed by many. May he rest in peace.
Marque,
Still hard to believe we have to continue without him. So warm and generous of spirit. Always smiling with a laugh ready to brighten any situation. His deep faith and creative spirit I will miss. A gentle but firm leader who eased us through our transition at St. Mike’s. But what I was grateful to him the most was how he supported my parents and my brother a few years back thru my father’s cancer treatment. I lived overseas and my mother always spoke of his friendship and support.
I will miss you dearly Greg. And Marque, we are hear for you, just call.
Our Gartshore family will miss this gentle man. So kind. Always greeted us with a smile. Gone too soon. Heaven has another angel. Condolences to Marque and all of Greg’s family. RIP
I was shocked and saddened by Greg’s sudden passing, Marque. My heart goes out to you and to all of Greg’s family.
Pat
Dear Marque,
We are so saddened to hear of the loss of your beloved Greg. Please know that our thoughts, prayers and deepest sympathy are with you at this very difficult time, and in the months to come. May your wonderful memories sustain you.
Sincerely,
Doug and Tara Gonder
Dear Marque, Drew and I are very sorry for your loss. Sending caring thoughts your way.
Thank you Greg, and Marque, for all that you’ve meant to my life’s journey. I remember fondly my time of spiritual growth attending Christ Church – celebrating with you through song and dance and community spirit helped me greatly. Thank you for your leadership in the community, and for truly being wonderful. Very fondly remembered. Sending all my love to Marque.
Greg was one of my best friends in grades 5 through 8 and even though we didn’t keep in touch I still feel that he was an important part of my life. I followed Greg on Facebook and was pleased to see that he kept the mischievous side of his personality. I am so saddened by his passing and offer my deepest condolences to Marque, his family, and his friends. Rest in peace old friend.
Dear Marque, I do not know what words to use. I am so very sorry for the loss and emptiness you are feeling in your heart. So sad. You will have memories of your 16 years together and knowing that he would never choose to leave. May God grant you Peace and set his Grace upon you. I am here if you need me.
Dear Marque, May God keep you in his care and make your burden easier to bear. Hugs, Donald & Maurice
Greg+ was my field ed. supervisor while I was at seminary. He played such a significant role in my formation to become a priest. He and the Christ Church community were so wonderful in helping me discover my gifts for leadership in the church. He was an excellent teacher and mentor. He remained a good friend and colleague after my ordination. He was also one of the first people to whom I introduced my future husband. He and Marque came to our wedding. Such a good time. Dinners with Marque and Greg+ were always fun and amazing. RIP thou good and faithful servant. Thank you for everything. We are blessed to have known you and call you friend. Marque and all of Greg’s family are in our prayers.
Heartfelt condolences to Marque, Andrew, Cate, Paul, Maureen and all of Greg’s family. He shared his life graciously and generously. May he rest In peace.
Blessings on your journey, Greg, it was a pleasure to have met you all too briefly. Much love to you Marque, you will be in my prayers.
I only met Greg a couple of times in passing but I know he means everything to Marque and that’s all I need to know. He must be magnificent.
I am deeply sorry for your loss. May the mercy and love of God give you the confort you need in this hour, and may Gregory rest in peace. Our prayers are with you
Our deepest condolences. May he Rest in Peace knowing how much he was loved. Richard and Sonny Green
Marque, our deepest sympathy in the loss of Greg. Let the wonderful memories carry you through this difficult time. Keeping you in our prayers.
Father Greg welcomed me into the Anglican Church 15 years ago, he encouraged my discernment to ministry, and walked me through many of life’s highs and lows. I’ll be forever grateful for his patience, wisdom, and laughter. I am a good priest because of him, a better man, and a champion of all things beautiful because of his walk on this earth. May his memory be a blessing to all, in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, Amen.
We wish to express our deepest sympathy to Marque and Greg’s family. We love you and we are praying for you all the way from the Bahamas.
Dearest Marque; Our hearts are heavy knowing that you are enduring the terrible loss of your beloved Gregory. We are so very sorry and are sending you our love. We are out of the country for the funeral, however, know that we will have a remembrance of him on Friday. Love to you our dear friend. You are in our hearts.
Marque, Don and I want to wish you and Greg’s family our deepest condolences. Greg was a wonderful man and he will be truly missed.
Our lives touched briefly but memorably. A man of thought, kindness, and caring.
Marque and all of Greg’s family,
There are no words…know that you are loved and being upheld in prayer
Sue+
Dearest Marque,
For years I have heard you talk about your beloved Greg. For years I had hoped to meet him. It is difficult to come to terms with the reality that I will not have the privilege of meeting the human who brought you great joy, peace, and partnership. I am heartbroken for you and for those who did know and love Greg. No one can fully imagine what this is like for each of you. May you have what you need to tend to the garden of your grief. May Greg and God meet you there.
With love,
Shawna, Jason, and family
So sorry to hear of Greg’s passing. He was a great man. Our prayers are with you.
We have lost a gentle and caring soul. Always a caring and selfless pastor, a gifted teacher — deeply concerned about forming and equipping people for ministry, an engaging and moving homilist, storyteller and liturgist I found Greg to be someone who lived his beliefs. Never afraid to challenge ideas and do things differently, thoughtfully and better.
Greg has made such a difference in so many of our lives. For that we are very thankful.
Fiona and I send our deepest condolences to Marque, Sherry, and the Smith family.
On behalf of my partner and I, i extend our prayers with love for Marque and the children as you remember Greg. My heart is saddened but I rejoice that we will see Greg again.
My deepest sympathy to Marque and to all of Greg’s family. Greg and Marque provided such support and kindness when a close friend died a few years ago and it has been an honour to know them over the years since.
Greg was a wonderful colleague and friend: his kindness and dry sense of humour were legendary. He will be sadly missed. Our sincere condolences to Marque and his children and family.
So sorry for your loss. My deepest condolences
Marque, I’m so sorry to hear about this. Harold told me. We are on a river cruise in Austria at the moment but hope to be back later Thursday. XOXO
I loved watching Greg dance at The Sacred Dance Guild Festivals. His movements always spoke of his beauty of spirit and loving kindness of Soul…
It has been a blessing knowing Greg and his passion for PWRDF and the Indigenous Communities through Bridge Builders. I am grateful for the gifts he so generously shared. Condolences to Marque and Greg’s family. He will be missed. May his memory be a blessing to all.
Marque, my sincere thoughts are with you now during the saddest time of your life . I will always remember his kind words he shared with me through difficult times with my son and his mental health struggles.
Sending my condolences for the passing of Greg. He was such a wonderful man and a great conversationalist. I always enjoyed running into him in the hallways and will certainly miss his infectious smile. He will be very much missed.
Maureen, Cate, Paul, and Andrew, I’m very sorry for the loss that you and the rest of Mark’s family are suffering right now. We were blessed to have Mark in our lives during Ever’s immigration to Canada and Curtis’s dual cultural baptism. My heart and prayers are with you now.
Maureen, Cate, Paul, and Andrew, I’m very sorry for the loss that you and the rest of Mark’s family are suffering right now. We were blessed to have Mark in our lives during Ever’s immigration to Canada and Curtis’s dual cultural baptism. My heart and prayers are with you now.
While the sky is brighter because one star has joined it, our Earth is poorer because we lost a beautiful soul. Rest in peace, Greg! We will miss you.
Dear Marque and family,
We are heartbroken at the loss of Greg. I came to London 17 years ago and found Christ church which was so welcoming to all, with a special caring for the gay community and black history and celebrated both. Above all music, dance and celebration.
Marque and Greg were there for me when my husband died, and then 3 years later came with Joyful Noise to sing at our wedding picnic reception during Covid. Thank you for being with loved ones at their most vulnerable moments. My heart goes out to all who grieve Greg.
Keep the gift of Joy, Marque, which Greg helped you experience fully.
Always a place at my table for you.
Love, Donna and with Bruce
Sending all my love and condolences to Gregory’s family and an extra hug for Marque in this difficult time.
So sorry for your loss. I remember Greg as a kind and friendly person and with his beloved Marque, such a light to friends, family & acquaintances.
Praying for you Marque and your family as you embark on this next very unique journey. You have our full hearts and love.
From myself personally and ALL of those in the Sacred Dance community that have been so privileged to share the dance with Greg over these many years. Greg danced with his whole heart – like he lived his life! He will be greatly missed – but we know he is dancing on with all of those who are there waiting with open arms to embrace him – Anna I’m sure will be front and centre in the welcoming village! Sending dancing waves of grace to Marque and all those in Greg’s extensive tribe!
My time with Greg was comparably short. He was one of my professors at Huron. We were cut from different liturgical clothes. I learnt so much from him. He was kind and caring. He always had a smile. When I mentioned his passing to my wife, she said, ‘i met him once, he was so kind and genuine.’ I said yep, that’d be Greg. I am a better Priest, Chaplain, husband and father for having know him. I have no doubt he’s dancing his way into heaven.
I am grateful to have known Greg since he began as a student at St. John the Evangelist and have stayed in touch over the years. I’ll miss him. I can appreciate your loss, Marque.
Such sad news. Sending love and prayers to Marque and Greg’s children and family.
Christ Church with Rev. Greg was so healing for me for many years.
What a lovely man. He will be so missed.
Our deepest condolences to Marque, Andrew, Cate, Paul, Maureen and family.
Father Greg made an indelible mark on our lives through his creativity, leadership, ministry and friendship. We will hold our many fond memories of him dearly.
Greg was one of my best allys and friends on my journey to priesthood. A loving and nurturing soul with abundant gifts and generousity of spirit. I am grateful to have known him.
Dear Marque,
We were scalded to hear the news about your beloved Greg! Our hearts go out to both of you at this very sad time. We have another funeral and so will not be able to make the service, but we will be with you in spirit. Love and prayers, Sheila and Richard (Macgregor)
My deepest condolences, Marque. I didn’t know Gregory well, but your deep love for each other was obvious. Love to you and the family.
Dear Marque and all the members of Greg’s family,
We are sending you our love and deep sympathy. We are very sorry we will be out of the Province at the time of Greg’s funeral, but we will pause where we are to remember and celebrate with joy the life of this wonderful man who was such a good friend to us at significant moments in our lives. Marque we are with you in spirit and hope to be with you in person sometime soon. Love and strong hugs of affection. Graham and Mona.
I am so very sorry to hear of Greg’s sudden passing. Deepest sympathy to Marque and all Greg’s family. I am sorry that I cannot attend the visitation and funeral since I am overseas until May 14. Sending my comforting prayers. Sincerely, Ian Davies
The world is a much sadder place without Greg in it and his presence is missed already. Holding you tight in my mind and sending much comfort your way, Marque to you and the family.
RIP Greg. Sincere condolences Marque and family. Greg was kind, genuine, and hospitable, an excellent storyteller around the fire, a community man, and a man of many communities. Blessings on all who miss him.
It was just a week before we lost Greg that he was leading the Mapping the Ground exercise at Ascension for us to learn about Indigenous Canada. He was a gentle and compassionate man with a ready laugh, a prophetic voice inviting us to rise to a better world, an exceptional builder of bridges between people. Sending my love to Marque and all Greg’s family.
On behalf of the Township of Lucan Biddulph Staff & Council, please accept our deepest sympathies. We are all thinking of you and your family during this time.
Greg, I cannot believe I will never see you and your beautiful smiling face again. You meant so much to our family, since I arrived in London and attended Christ Church, since you baptized Leif, married me and Zach, and spent so many good times at our place with our family. We are really going to miss you. To Marque, Maureen, Sherry, Greg’s children & grand-children, my heart is breaking for all of you and may the love of your friends and family members be wrapped around you as you grieve your sudden loss.
Marque, We are deeply sorry to hear of the passing of Greg. He touched many lives, with his gentle and loving ways. Keeping you and his family in our thoughts and prayers.
I was saddened to hear of Greg’s sudden death. During his days at Huron, he was my counterpart and I always enjoyed the opportunity to chat with him at various events / meetings. May he rest in peace, and may his loved ones know the comforting embrace of Our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.
(Bernardine, Director of Field Education, St. Peter’s Seminary)
James and I were both deeply saddened to hear of Greg’s death. You are in our prayers Marque as are your families. Many years ago, as a student at Huron, during a particularly hard time, Greg had a conversation with me in which he told me that God knew what he was doing in bringing me to Huron to explore ordination. “You’re here for a reason” – he told me. “Trust that.” 25 years ago this month I was ordained, and I remain grateful to Greg for his witness, his courage, his faith and grateful that he found such love with you Marque. Greg was here for a reason, and I give thanks to God for him and for you both.
Dear Marque,
My deepest sympathies on the sudden and unexpected loss of Greg. My thoughts and prayers are with you and the whole family during this time of challenge.
Dear Marque, We are so sorry to hear of your loss. May the peace of Christ give you comfort as you move through the days ahead.
Don and Lorraine Clark
Paul, my thoughts are with you and your family.
Marque, Sherry & Rick,
My heart goes out to all of you. Greg was a kind, caring person who always went above and beyond to help whoever needed it. Dan & I are here for you for whatever you may need.
Much love to you.
As a family we are sending our sincere condolences to you Marque! Our family goes back a long way with you. We know how much you loved Greg and the life you built together. Please know that our love, thoughts and prayers are with you during this very difficult time and in the days ahead.
Warmly, Lynda and Denis, Judi, Mark and Debbie, Marlene and Garth
I first met Greg at the Natioal PWRDF meetings many years ago. I respected his work as a PWRDF representative. May he rest in peace and rise in glory.
The MacKay family’s sorrowful hearts and prayers are with you Marque and with Greg’s family . Sandy,Natalie,Ian & Lisette, Lauren & Matt
Dear Marque: Please know that we are thinking about you in this time of immense personal loss. Greg was a man of strong faith, gentle spirit, kind words, and infectious warmth — a great gift and example to all of us. May you and your entire family find reassurance and comfort in knowing that so many people care.
Diane and Gary
Marque – I’m so very sorry for your loss. My sincere condolences. Thinking of you.
Phil Gillies
Dear Marque,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of loss.
Let the memories and the prayers that are being sent your way carry you through. Take care
Steve and Linda Britton
I met Greg in 1975 when we both entered seminary at Huron College. Greg was kind to me from the beginning (not everyone wanted women in Theology back in those days and many of the men wouldn’t even speak to me).
We became good friends. Greg, John and I were known as the Three Musketeers! I will miss you, my friend.
My condolences to his loved ones at their loss of this very special man.
Marque May you find comfort during this time as you hold on to your memories and the love of friends and family
My deepest sympathy
Carolyn and I are so saddened for your loss Marque. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the family.
Am grateful for your help in my spiritual formation. Bless you for your giggle and delicious irreverent moments that I will treasure always. My prayers are for all who feel bereft at your leaving…. May we all feel God’s presence.
My sincerest condolences to Gregory and his loved ones. Marque, much love to you! I’ve been thinking about you a lot.
A very young Father Greg as I knew him, presided over both my wedding and vow renewal ceremony at The Church of the Transfiguration and later, was a great source of comfort to me and my two young sons when presiding over my husband’s funeral at St. Paul’s. Father Greg had a deeply spiritual air of compassion and empathy about him that made you feel seen and heard. To Father Greg’s family and loved ones I offer deepest sympathy and Greg’s own words to us many years ago in our time of loss and sorrow: “Our living places us in relationship with the Source of Life – with God – a relationship which comes into view in the transforming endings: The new heaven and the new earth – a relationship without ending and beyond tears and suffering. It must be the relationship of love that now lifts him up to something new in one sense, and yet, something of which he has and always will be a part. Look up and see the stars. Feel the wind. You will know this to be true. Peace now to you, and to us all.”
I have met Marque over the years when he was music director for MCC london which was a great place to worship and sing hymns!
My condolences ??
RlP gentle spirit!
My deepest condolences Marque. You are in my thoughts
Sincerely,
Ray
.
Marque, Words cannot express how sorry I am for your loss. Remember the good times, and try to smile when you do remember a special scent, place or memory. Rely on friends and don’t try to hold back your feelings. Kathy
Dear Marque and all, I had hoped to get to London for tomorrow (Friday), but have some parish obligations here in Dundas, and am not in a position to rush. I shall, however, tune in online (though it’s not the same). If I can be helpful in any way, please let me know…and I hope I shall see you soon. I am among the many who are grateful for Greg’s kindness and compassion. Love to you all. Peter.
We are thinking of you, Marque, and sending you our deepest condolences for your loss of Greg.
Martha & George Bere
May he rest in eternal peace. I’m so sorry Marque for your profound loss. May God give you and your family comfort during this time. He was gone too soon.
To Marque and the entire family, our deepest condolences. There are no words we can offer that haven’t already been so well expressed here. May happy memories of Greg, and your strong faith, guide you and console you. And please know that we are always here for you.
My sincere condolences to the families.
May GOD give you strength to get through this difficult times.
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Sadden and shocked by the news of my cousin Greg’s sudden death. My sincere and deepest condolences to Marcque, Sherry, Maureen and the rest of Greg’s family.
With the passage of time and God’s grace may the pain and sorrow you feel ease and be replaced with loving memories
I knew Greg from our high school days at Oakridge, and especially a trip to Italy when we were in Grade 13. Time and geography kept us apart but we reconnected in 2005 when my family in London asked me to approach Greg about performing my father’s funeral. He did, and it was wonderful, uplifting and welcoming to all.
May God bless you and keep you, old friend.
Dear Marque,
We are so very shocked and sorry to hear the news of Greg’s passing. We are thinking of you and hoping that you are comforted by the admiration and love that all of your friends feel for you both. We send you much love during this difficult time.
Our most sincere condolences to Marque and Greg’s children on the sudden death of Greg. May your memories of him and your faith sustain you.
Dear Marque,
We are so very sorry to hear about Greg’s passing. Please know that you are in our prayers as you walk this difficult road.
Janice Sinker & Betsy Hanes
Ken Taylor
Sherry,
So sorry to hear of your brother Greg’s passing.
Sincerely,
Ken Taylor
Dear Marque, May many happy and wonderful memories and much music help you through this very difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and Greg.
Dear Marque
I was out of country and just found out about Greg’s passing.
I am shocked.
Wish you comfort and strength and courage from God, the healer.
Love
Peggy
My heart is saddened to hear of this news…May God watch over you and your loved ones…rest in peace till we meet again…
You came across my mind yesterday and today, it was sad news to hear you passed away. I hope you have found peace. Thank you for the coffee and tea time. I always enjoyed hearing you sing during mass, you sang so beautifully at Christ Church. I can’t thank you enough for driving me to Thamesville for a introduction to my culture, it was the first time I felt proud of who I was and it was my beginning to my healing journey. Baamaapii which means see you later in Anishinamowin we do not have a word for goodbye. I will see you again on the other side.