Sister Lucille Smith

“Look at the lilies of the field.  They never have to spin or weave. If that is how God clothes the grass in the fields, how much more will He look after you.” Lk 12:27, 28

March 23, 2010, Sister Lucille Smith,
in religion, M.-William-des-Anges
went home to God.

She was 94 years old and had been professed for 73 years.

Born, an Irish Canadian, into a blended family in Montreal, she was the eighth child of her mother Corona Bouthiller and the 8th of 10 children of her father William Smith.

Lucille Smith pursued her studies with the Sisters of the Congregation of Notre Dame.  The only SNJM Sister she knew was her father’s cousin, Mère Jeanne-Françoise, who suggested that she make a silent retreat directed by Fr. Louis Lortie, OMI, in Hochelaga.  This experience led her to respond to God’s call to enter the Postulate at the age of 19.

Her teacher vocation, was lived out with great skill and creativity within the “Institut Familiaux” and the “Institut de Pédagogie familiale”.  Having a Master’s degree in the techniques of professional weaving as well as having specialized in sewing, Sister William-des-Anges developed, with enthusiasm and joy, her abilities and talents in these subjects and then succeeded in communicating the same joy to her students and fellow religious.

At the age of 61, Sr. Lucille, with her warm and friendly personality, became a driver and a receptionist at Collège Durocher and later at Saint André Residence.  Retiring to St. Émélie Residence, and knowing that her health was declining, she took part in community life as much as she was capable of doing.

Always in good humour, she loved to listen to singing and to classical music.  Sensitive and grateful for the smallest things, she said many “Thank you’s.”  She loved to go to the Eucharist and to listen to songs dedicated to Mary. 

A quiet discreet woman, she rarely drew attention to her past or present sufferings.

One day, when she was being honoured, someone said, “What goodness, patience, love for her students!…her qualities and talents, the memories, the affection she had for others… She could often be heard humming favourite songs.  Known for her generosity, was she ever able to say “No” to any request asked of her?. . .”

Her quick departure from this life gave witness to her great readiness to follow the call of the Father.