Obituary of Sylvia Fern Austin

Sylvia Fern Austin (Smith), of Thorndale, passed away on October 26, 2018 at St. Marys Memorial Hospital, St. Marys, Ontario, in her 83rd year.Sylvia leaves behind her husband Gerald “Gerry” of 44 years. Predeceased by her parents Walter E. Smith (1976), birthmother A. Katherine Smith (Axford) (1943), stepmother Evelyn F. Smith (Nelson) (1998) and brother Robert E. Smith (2009). Survived by her brother Laurence G. Smith, sister-in-law Shelia L. Smith and several nieces and nephews.Sylvia was an avid gardener and a lover or nature, our many pets (dogs and cats) were a big part of her life. Our small rural property allowed her to enjoy each of these interests to the fullest.Shortly after early retirement in 1979 Sylvia became interested in button collecting. She became an active member of the Trillium Button Club of Ontario. Later she became a Volunteer for the VON (Elgin-Middlesex). Through these two activities she gained many long-lasting friendships and found each individual activity very rewarding.Thank you to Dr. M. Trevail for his kind and compassionate care over the past few years and a special thank you the nurses who attended to Sylvia over her short stay in hospital.At Sylvia’s request there will be no visitation or funeral service. Cremation entrusted to the Andrew L. Hodges Funeral Home, St. Marys. A Private family interment will take place in the late spring of 2019 at the Family Culver Cemetery, Norfolk County.As an expression of sympathy, donations to the Canadian Cancer Society, VON or a charity of choice are welcomed.