Emma Grace Smith died on June 21, 2016, quietly and peacefully, and surrounded by love, at home after a long illness.
Emma was a kind and loving daughter to Diane and Darrell, and sister to Charlie, and grand-daughter to Dawne Doubleday, and Ann and Barry Smith.
Emma was diagnosed with pineoblastoma, an aggressive brain cancer, on October 1, 2012. After intensive radiation and chemotherapy, she went into remission in August the following year, but relapsed on October 1, 2014. Emma faced her challenges with dignity and bravery, a wicked sense of humour, and a continued concern for the wellbeing of others rather than herself.
Throughout her twelve years, Emma loved to learn, and then to pass on her knowledge. She was a natural, and from Grade 2 desperately wanted to become an elementary school teacher. When it became obvious that she would not achieve her goal, The University of Victoria graciously awarded Emma an Honorary Teaching Certificate. She was so proud.
Emma enjoyed the whimsical and magical, especially in her readings. She loved the Alice in Wonderland stories, the works of Roald Dahl, and of course, everything Harry Potter. She also loved to dance, but this ability was cruelly taken from her early in her illness.
There are many individuals and organisations that have helped Emma and her family since the diagnosis on October 1, 2012. Although we cannot thank you all, the following receive our special thanks – the pupils, staff, and parents from Cloverdale Traditional School that offered tremendous support when Emma was initially diagnosed; the nurses, doctors, social workers and more at BC Children’s Hospital; everyone connected with Ronald MacDonald House BC; the small but outstanding Paediatric Oncology Team at Victoria General Hospital who are simply amazing; the support services we received after Emma relapsed, especially from Marg and Julie; the wisdom and support from Victoria Hospice; our truly wonderful community that toiled so much to allow us to stay together as a family; and finally to Emma’s fantastic nurses through Sara at Bayshore, that provided the backbone of the support we received.
A private funeral service for family will be held at McCall’s Downtown. A Celebration of Emma’s Life will take place at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations to Ronald McDonald House BC (https://goo.gl/fAhy8j) or Help Fill A Dream (https://goo.gl/CS6DVF) would be appreciated.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall’s Funeral Home
www.mccallbros.com
22 Responses
My sincere heartfelt condolences on the loss of sweet Emma.
To Charlie, Diane and Darrell,
Emma lives in all of those who knew her or knew of her. We will remember her laughter and joy of a good, or not so good joke. Her love of all things Potter and mystical things. Magic wands and purple capes. Baking cookies and Halloween. Holding her brother’s hand as they walked down the hallways at school.Emma’s laughter was a thing to behold and will never be forgotten.
We will never forget Emma. She is unforgettable. Diane, Darrell and Charlie, you have graciously shared your private world with so many and we hope you were able to feel our love and support. Thank you for your incredible gift. All our love and deepest sympathy.
To Diane, Darrell and Charlie,
Words cannot express how sorry we are to hear that your sweet angel passed away. Emma was so beautiful and so sweet and we remember, like yesterday, how she glided through the air like a gazelle in her ballet class. She was the kindest little girl and friend. We believe that God sent her to earth to inspire people and to make you proud. She will always live in our hearts… May God look after her in heaven and may God give you strength to carry on through your unbearable pain. Our deepest sympathies…
Emma gifted me with being one of her confidantes. She had a very mature, intelligent and wicked sense of humour. When she heard the news that the medicines weren’t working she asked to talk with me. We had such amazing talks. In my attempt to honour Emma and her amazing ability with children I will forever treasure the dance stage she shared with eldest daughter who loved watching Emma’s dance videos. To the moment when I brought my 3 week old baby for Emma to hold. And more baby cuddles after that. Emma had that natural way with newborns right through to precautios kids! I will forever remember the way she held my baby and played with my girls.
I am so sad to hear of Emma’s passing. She seemed like she was a true beam of sunshine, always smiling and making the best of all she had to endure. The love she felt from family and friends and gave back will continue to bring light into this world. May her smile from above bring you peace.
Dear Darrell, Diane and Charlie,
I am so very sorry to hear this news. I cannot find any words of comfort to offer you at this time, except people far away are thinking of you and shedding a tear at Emma’s loss and braveness.
Jan
The Queen of Hearts and Lord Voldemort lay begging and pleading at the feet of Emma. She defeated them at every turn through her tenacity and hope. She slayed them with her whit and trampled all over them with her radiant cuteness, which could only ever challenged by sparkly Unicorns. She was an inspiration to us all. She was an example of how life should be embraced. She was simply an extension of her family.
Her family. Three people who personify strength, compassion and resolve. My hope is that I, one day, can be as brilliant as you all are. I am in awe at each of you.
Thank you all for being kind enough to allow me into your life and letting me get to know you and Emma.
Emma was a hero. She inspired so many of us with her bravery. My condolences to all of you. xo
I was so saddened to learn of the passing of Emma. I saw her featured on the local News, and instantly my heart soared with pride at such a wonderful, selfless exceptional young lady. At the time, I did not realize she was Alice’s beloved niece. My heart goes out to all Emma’s family at this difficult time. May you find solace and comfort in the happy memories shared by your loved ones to help you through this trying time. Although I did not know Emma personally, it is easy to see what an extraordinary girl she was, and that she touched the hearts and lives of many in her short life. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Knowing Emma was a privilege & an honour. She was a very special girl & we will not ever forget her. Thank you Darrell & Diane for creating & raising a wonderful bright spirit in Emma. And thank you both and Charlie for sharing Emma with us. You are a lovely family & we care for you all very much. Ailsa & Steve