Former county councillor dies following illness

A former county councillor is being remembered as a fairminded man who worked hard for his constituents.

Fielding Smith, age 69, passed away Monday in the Aberdeen Hospital following an illness. He served on council for the Municipality of Pictou County for 18 years representing District 14.

“He was a fine gentleman,” said Coun. David Parker who served two of the three terms with Smith. “He always tried to find the compromise and the common ground on the issue. He could be outspoken on behalf of his constituents and was well liked and worked well with most councillors.”

Smith served a term as deputy warden and was missed when he left council at the end of this third term, said Parker.

He said he believes Smith’s work as union representative with the United Steelworkers gave him the skills to work well with people and see both sides of an issue.

“He tried to do his best with his constituents and be fair with everyone he dealt with,” said Parker.

Warden Robert Parker served one term with Smith and echoed his brother’s words about the former councillor’s respect for everyone needing his assistance.

“He didn’t have any pretenses about him,” said Robert. “He was who he was. He had a good head on his shoulders to think things through.”

Robert said Smith had a real interest in the Riverview Home Corporation as well as good business sense that made him conscious of how the smallest rise in taxes could hurt local businesspeople or residents.

There is no visitation by request of the family.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, May 14, 2017, at the Springville Presbyterian Church.

Interment at a later date. Family flowers only.