In Loving Memory

Photo of Sheila fay smith

Sheila fay smith

September 11, 1952 — June 18, 2026

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Sheila Fay Smith, a beacon of kindness and compassion, who departed this world on June 18, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on September 11, 1952, in the comforting embrace of Keene, New Hampshire, Sheila touched countless lives with her unwavering generosity and the warmth of her spirit. Sheila was the cherished daughter of Lawrence Fair of Rochester, NH, and Beverly French of Keene, NH, who predeceased her along with two beloved brothers. One brother, taken too soon by polio, and another, Larry Fair, who left us unexpectedly, were always close to Sheila's heart. These early losses shaped the compassionate woman she became, someone who understood the value of time and the importance of love. She is survived by her loving children, Debra Ann Neil and Ray L. Smith, whose lives were enriched by her nurturing spirit. Ray's wife, Lori, and Sheila's siblings, Sharon Labraney, Ronnie Fair, and Timmy Fair, also remain to celebrate her life. Her legacy continues in her grandchildren—Megan Curtis, Kassie Smith, Rebecca Neil, Theresa Meyette, Chade Shute, Sarah H., and Crystal B.—and great-grandchildren, Levi, Cohen, and Bailee. Each carries a piece of Sheila's gentle heart and generous soul. Sheila's life was a testament to the power of care and empathy. For over a decade, she opened her home to run a share home for the elderly, providing them with love and dignity in their later years. Her journey of care extended as she worked with Sunapee Visiting Nurses in New London, NH, offering her support to the elderly, allowing them to remain independent in their homes—a mission she passionately believed in. Outside her professional life, Sheila found joy in the simple pleasures that life had to offer. She relished spending time with her family, embarking on shopping adventures, delighting in thrift store treasures, and savoring family outings and trips. Her family gatherings, rich with love and laughter, were her greatest joy, a testament to her role as the rock of her family. Sheila's smile, which could light up any room, and her heart of gold made everyone she met feel loved and welcome. In this time of mourning, we extend our deepest gratitude to DHMC and Cancer in Lebanon, NH, and Elmwood Center Nursing Home in Claremont, NH, for their unwavering support and care. We also wish to thank the wonderful caregivers Brenda Chadbourne, Jenni Baker, and Rose Bolio from Ascentia Homecare Agency, who were by her side over the years, and her devoted daughter, Debra Neil, whose love and care never wavered. Sheila's life was a journey of grace and love, and though our hearts are heavy, we take comfort in knowing she now rests in peace, her angel wings earned. Her spirit lives on in the hearts of all who knew her, a testament to a life lived with immense love and compassion. A memorial service will be held in her honor, details of which will be shared with family and friends. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to organizations supporting cancer care, continuing Sheila’s legacy of giving. May Sheila Fay Smith's memory be a blessing to us all.