Clare Stanley Smith

          It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of Clare Stanley Smith on Thursday August 13, 2026, in his 78th year.

          Clare leaves behind his devoted wife Brenda (nee Remington) of 55 years who was faithfully at his side through his journey with Lewis Body Dementia.  Clare will be lovingly remembered by siblings Glen Smith of Innerkip, Ontario and Nancy Smith (Rick Carton) of Sechelt, B.C., his brothers and sisters-in-law Carolyn Remington, Karen (Jack) Love, Bill (Sue) Remington, Rosemary Praught, and Janice (Tom) Strickler of Woodstock, Ontario, and many beloved nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews and great great nieces and nephews.  Predeceased by his parents Stanley and Velma Smith, his in-laws Irvin and Winnie Remington, Larry Remington, Marion and Bill Gillespie, Wayne Remington, Brendon Praught and Janet Smith.

          Clare was born and raised on the 18th line of Innerkip, Ontario until the family moved into the village. He enjoyed school, sports, playing the accordion and singing. Clare was a hard worker who put his best into everything he did.  He was a member of the Eagles baseball team for several years. He also worked at Hilderley’s Garage during the summers and on weekends.  Clare was an excellent storyteller.  He had a quick and creative wit that could always make people laugh.  He was a fun-loving person and well- liked and respected by his peers.

          Clare attended College Avenue Secondary School in Woodstock the first year it was opened.  He then received his Bachelor of Science and Masters degrees at the University of Guelph.  Clare and Brenda moved to Ames, Iowa where Clare obtained his PhD in plant breeding and cytogenetics at Iowa State University.  He and Brenda remained in Iowa where Clare worked as a corn breeder and geneticist for North American Plant Breeders and AgriPro.  The last few years of his career, Clare was the Director of Research for Pau Seeds. People often remarked about Clare being outstanding in his field!

          Clare’s career involved travel to breeding nurseries in Molokai, France, Italy, Puerto Rico, Japan and South America.  He and Brenda also enjoyed spending time under the warm Florida sun with Velma and Stan.  In 2001, Clare and Brenda returned to Innerkip where they rekindled many old friendships.  Clare loved it when people passing by would stop in for a quick hello or visit in the garage / driveway where he would often sit.  He enjoyed exchanging stories and greetings with people in the village on his daily paper route.  The years he worked at the Innerkip Cemetery, he took pride in keeping the grounds well-kept and looking their best.  These outdoor jobs allowed him to observe nature as he loved to do.

          Clare spent his last six years at Secord Trails Community Care in Ingersoll where he faced his challenges with a sense of humour that rarely wavered, an ongoing interest in the world around him and a kind compassion for others.  Special thanks to the wonderful caregivers and staff who helped to make Clare’s final years meaningful and filled with love.  In Clare’s words (with Elvis’ accent), “Thank you. Thank you very much!”

          The family would like to thank everyone for their love, support, and kindness during this difficult time.  Knowing Clare is now at peace is a great comfort.  In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Alzheimer Society or VON Sakura House would be greatly appreciated, or please just take some time to share an act of kindness and a good laugh with those you love in memory of Clare.  Cremation has taken place.  Clare’s ashes will be interred in the Innerkip Cemetery.

Wareing Cremation Services, 225 Norwich Ave., Woodstock, Ontario has been entrusted with Final Arrangements.  Your messages of remembrance and condolence may be shared here at wareingcremation.ca