Passed away at St. Clare’s Mercy Hospital, St. John’s on Sunday, March 1, 2026, Max Smith of Hodge’s Cove, age 83 years.
Predeceased by his daughter Darlene; parents Delilah and Jacob; sisters Florence, Sylvia and Rosemund; brothers Lindo, Clarence and Albert; daughter-in-law Marlene.
Left with fond and loving memories are his wife Doris of 61 years; children Gerry (Gail) of Little Hearts Ease, Donna (Billy) of St. John’s and Della (Dan) of Hodge’s Cove; grandchildren Douglas, Dustin, Brandon, Nicholas, Jacob and Katelyn; nieces, nephews, family and friends.
Max, at 83 years of age, lived a life full of purpose, wisdom, and hard work. Friends near and far remember his favourite saying: ‘find a job you love and never work a day in your life.’ His craftsmanship lives on in the many miles of floating docks he created across the island. He believed firmly in paying yourself first through investing, and often reminded others that you didn’t truly know a person until ‘you’ve eaten a sack of flour with them.’ With his wife always by his side, Max cherished Deer Harbour, his cabin, and harvesting scallops, always ensuring responsible resource management. Throughout his life, Max held many careers, including lumberjack, boilermaker, security worker, freighter deckhand, commercial diver, and floating dock builder. Known for his quick wit and sharp tongue, he often joked with others, saying, ‘you’re as good to me as a bad mother-in-law.’ With his devoted wife, he helped pioneer the sea urchin fishery in Newfoundland and Labrador. On any given day, you could find ‘Mr. Overalls’ in the shed, building docks and keeping busy. The loss of his daughter at the tender age of eleven impacted him profoundly, strengthening his bonds with family and inspiring him to give generously to local charities, including the Janeway Children’s Hospital. An avid reader, he loved Newfoundland history and supported many local authors. He loved fiercely, holding close his family, his memories, and his four-legged grand-dogs. His wife of over sixty years remained his partner in all things, his right hand, his constant, and his inseparable companion.
Cremation has taken place. A celebration of life is to be held at Fewer’s Funeral Home, Little Hearts Ease on April 7, 2026. Subject to change.
In his memory any donations received will be presented by his family to the Janeway Telethon, a cause near and dear to his heart.
Condolences(17)-
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Kelly Blenkinsopp says
March 3, 2026 at 2:26 pmDonna and family, I’m so sorry for your loss. While I never met your Dad, you’ve told me a hundred little stories about him and I know his loss will be widely felt by all who knew him.
Peggy Baker says
March 3, 2026 at 2:27 pmSo sorry to hear of Max’s passing. He was a wonderful man and a very hard worker. My sincere condolences to all his family at this very sad time. May he rest in peace 🕊️
Pattie Barker says
March 3, 2026 at 2:56 pmDonna and family, I am sorry to hear of your dad’s passing. I remember his kindness and smile.
Marion (Lloyd ) Spurrell says
March 3, 2026 at 4:12 pmDoris & Family I was sad to hear of the passing of Max…growing up on the ‘hill’ we were all family & always looked out for one another. I have wonderful memories of Max as did my brothers & sisters..these memories often tribute to a “well done” life. Please accept my sincerest condolences & love to you all in this difficult time!
Gerald stringer says
March 3, 2026 at 5:08 pmSo sorry to hear of max’s passing. My condolences to the family.
Norm & Nellie Jackson says
March 3, 2026 at 6:52 pmSo sorry for your loss. I’m sure he will be missed. Condolences to the families.
Linda Stringer (Charboneau) says
March 3, 2026 at 9:01 pmSo sorry to hear of Max’s passing; Please accept my sincere condolences . I have many memories of spending time with Max & Doris while Len & I lived back home. We spent many a Saturday night together either playing cards or just hanging out while the boys enjoyed their favourite brew. Cherish the beautiful memories Doris; you have many. RIP dear friend ; you have finished your work here on earth. 🙏🙏❤️
Jane Adey says
March 4, 2026 at 9:45 amDoris and family,
I am so very sorry to hear that you’ve lost Max. What an unforgettable character. I enjoyed every encounter I ever had with him and was so pleased to have interviewed him over the years. Hold onto all your wonderful memories, Doris. Take care. Jane
Lenora and cyril says
March 4, 2026 at 12:00 pmDoris and family, sorry to hear of Max’s passing, glad I had a good yarn with you and him recently, thinking of you
Garland Bailey says
March 4, 2026 at 1:22 pmDoris and family.
Please accept our most sincere condolences. Proverbs talks of ‘who can find a virtuous woman. For her price is far above rubies’ I say who can find a virtuous man? Max would certainly fit that description. His price was way beyond rubies.
So sad to hear of his passing. Garland and Daphne.
Lorraine Smith says
March 4, 2026 at 6:03 pmDoris and family
It was sad to hear about Max‘s passing. My heartfelt condolences go out to you all.
It was always enjoyable running into Max and having a chat. He was certain to have something funny to say. He was definitely a man always in motion, always in overalls and always ready for a chat. Rest in peace, Max.
Carol Seaward says
March 4, 2026 at 7:30 pmDoris and family, so sorry to learn of Max’s passing.We always enjoyed our time spent with both of you as did Ivan during his many visits talking and watching Max work. Please accept our sincere condolences – he will certainly be missed. Ivan and Carol.
Lorraine Smith says
March 4, 2026 at 8:12 pmDoris and family
It was sad to hear about Max‘s passing. My heartfelt condolences go out to you all.
It was always enjoyable running into Max and having a chat. He was certain to have something funny to say. He was definitely a man constantly in motion and cover-alls and always ready for a chat. Rest in peace, Max.
Pam says
March 5, 2026 at 11:01 amI am so sorry to hear of Max’s passing. My hearfelt condolences to Doris and all the family.
I met Max through work and can surely say he was a lovely person. He would often call or drop by the office and would always take time to chat or tell a story about something he was currently involved in, or to crack a joke.
Rest in peace Max.
Lester and Juanita Green says
March 5, 2026 at 2:47 pmDoris and Families, So sorry to hear of Max’s passing .Our Deepest Sympathy to you all during this difficult time.Cherish all the Precious Memories you both shared together. Hold them close at Heart.May God ‘s Grace be sufficient for you in the time ahead. Love,Blessings and Prayers
Ralph Hillyard says
March 6, 2026 at 7:33 amDoris and Family. I am deeply saddened to hear of Max’s passing. I got to know him very well over the years working together as a Boilermaker. One of my favourite memories is driving to New Brunswick together for a Paper Mill shutdown. I also moored to his wharf in Deer Harbour a few times over the years. Rest in Peace Max.
Gerry and JUdy Dillon says
March 6, 2026 at 6:31 pmDonna So sorry to learn of your father’s passing. May he rest in peace.
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