Marg Smith

With heavy hearts, Margaret Vivian Smith (nee Nelson), in her 87th year, passed away at AgeCare Aylmer on Tuesday, September 22, 2026.
Marg was born on December 5, 1939 to the late Russell & Beulah (Anger) Nelson. Aside from living in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia for a few years during her first marriage to Ken Cassis, Marg spent her life in Aylmer, raising her children in the same house she was raised in.  Marg married John Smith in 1975 and together they raised their blended family. In her youth, Marg loved dancing and spent many weekends jiving to 50s music at the Hacienda Dance Hall.

For 53 years, Marg was known as the ‘Ticket Lady’, a familiar face at the front door of the Aylmer Arena, selling tickets and greeting guests. During that time, she became a well-known and valued part of the community, and to many, she was like family. Generations of families remember Marg sitting at the ticket booth with a knitting or crocheting project on the go.  Marg also enjoyed knitting and made thousands of hats over the years. It was something she took great pride and pleasure in, and another way she contributed to those around her.

Marg together with her husband, John, also operated J & M Sports, which eventually led to their involvement with the Aylmer Aces and the billeting of several out-of-town hockey players. In their retirement they were often off on an adventure in their Roadtrek travelling and exploring Canada and the U.S.  A couple of experiences involved getting on stage with the Osmond Brothers and cruising with the original Little Rascals.
Margaret is survived by her daughter Deb (Ed), sons Michael, Darryl (Ruth), stepchildren, Ed (Carol), Ron (Liz), Barrie (Kelly), Debbie and multiple grandchildren, great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.  Predeceased by her husband John Smith, brother Jack Nelson, stepsons John Smith and Jim Smith.

Visitation will be held at the H.A. Kebbel Funeral Home, Aylmer on Monday, September 28, 2026 from 5-8:00 p.m. The funeral service will be held at the funeral home on Tuesday, September 29, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. Donations to the Aylmer Area Community Foundation would be appreciated.  Share memories or condolences at kebbelfuneralhome.com