General News
29 October, 2024
Marjorie Smith's life of commmunity service
MARJORIE SMITH 1929-2024 MARJ Smith, who lived in the Loddon Shire for the majority of her life, was born in Durham Ox and moved to a farm in Yarrawalla after marrying Russell, has died aged 95. During her time in Yarrawalla, she was an active...
MARJORIE SMITH
1929-2024
MARJ Smith, who lived in the Loddon Shire for the majority of her life, was born in Durham Ox and moved to a farm in Yarrawalla after marrying Russell, has died aged 95.
During her time in Yarrawalla, she was an active member of the community, helping others in any way she could.
Marj was recognised for work throughout her life with various accolades and awards. She received the first Loddon Valley Netball Association life membership in 1984 and was a Yarrawalla South Tennis Club life member and Citizen of the Year 1996.
She was a recipient of the Centenary Medal awarded for service to the community through sport particularly junior tennis and netball in 2001.
Marj was awarded a Laurel Wreath Award acknowledging 50 years of service to the Red Cross, that was presented at Government House.
While doing the mail run Marj also worked in Pyramid Hill at a café during lunchtime, before returning to Durham Ox after taking the mail to Pyramid Hill, picking up groceries as requested and would then distribute mail and groceries. She also assisted various members of the community however she could, including caring for other children when families needed assistance, driving people to appointments, doing meals on wheels, working in the local hostel and volunteering in various ways around the district.
Marj directed several concerts involving just locals in the Yarrawalla Hall, in the galvanised building preceding the current hall.
They were mostly musicals with Doug and Hedley Miles leading the charge with the vocals. Her theatrical talents continued to shine through her life, and she held a highland dancing exhibition for the folk in the Pyramid Hostel in her 70s.
As well as an active member in her local community Marj was a strong supporter of the Loddon Valley Netball Association.
Despite not having any daughters she helped within the club including with netball umpiring until well into her fifties and supplying a huge spread of goods for afternoon tea or any other occasion.
Two of her granddaughters, Jeannie and Kellie have had lengthy and successful careers within the association with Kellie celebrating 500 senior games for Calivil this year.
Their love of the game was kickstarted by their grandma who drove them to and from training and games.
Even after moving to Bendigo, Marj was no more than a phone call away and was more than happy to provide a listening ear for anyone who needed it. Her presence in the Loddon Shire community will be missed.
Family and friends farewelled Marj at a service held in the Yarrawalla Hall.
She is survived by sons Tom, Brian, Gary, Paul, Michael and their families.