Smith, Hilton

Smith, Hilton

Hilton transitioned peacefully into his eternal home in heaven, surrounded by the love of his family at Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital on Sunday, Aug. 17, 2025, two weeks after his 85th birthday.

The Stayner community was home to Hilton for his entire life. He was the beloved husband of Edna (née Baird) for a little over 61 wonderful years. Loving father of Kevin (Laura Lee) and Darrin (Beth). Cherished grandfather of Charlotte and Lilia. Dear brother of Margaret “Peg” (late Bob). Brother-in-law to Ina (née Baird) (late Harvey), Ellen (née Baird) (Robert). Proud uncle of Debbie, Denise, Lisa (Jamie), Trevor (Tanya), Laura (Gordon), Karen (Nathan) and Linda (Nicholas). He will be lovingly remembered by the Smith, Baird and McGibbon families and all his friends.

Hilton was born on Aug. 3, 1940, to parents Gordon and Lillie Smith. He had a special love for his family, social gatherings and every buffet table he met. His presence was always warmly felt and his love for cats was as gentle and loyal as he was.

When president of Smith Bros. Farms Ltd., Hilton took pride managing employees and crops, and later assisting management at Martin Ready Mix, in partnership with the family farm. As a licensed AZ truck driver, working at Winchester Equipment, GW Gascho Construction – A2B Haulage or helping his good friends Roger and Bill McLeod of Mountain View Farms gave him many more opportunities to use his skills and follow another of his passions.

Over the last 38 years, Hilton and Edna enjoyed many travel adventures as they grew their business with the AIM Companies, successfully achieving the highest level of Chairman’s Club Directors. Many precious friends were made along their journey and lifelong relationships formed.

For many years, Hilton served as an elder as well as chairman of the board of managers at First Presbyterian Church, Collingwood. As a gifted vocalist, Hilton’s voice resonated through the choir, Messengers Quartet, men’s chorus, Outreach Singers and the beloved Singing Christmas Tree — bringing joy and inspiration to many. Even after he retired from the choir, Hilton continued to serenade the love of his life with the many gospel songs that were their favourites during praise times at home.

Hilton’s legacy lives on in the hearts of those who shared in his laughter, his music, and his unwavering love and kindness.

Private interment, Stayner Union Cemetery. A celebration of Hilton’s life is being planned, and details will follow when available. Everyone is most welcome to attend. Please indicate your intent to join us by completing the RSVP form. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Hilton to the Canadian Bible Society or the Collingwood General & Marine Hospital Foundation – Dialysis Unit would be appreciated by the family. To RSVP or to sign Hilton’s Book of Memories, please visit www.carruthersdavidson.com