Rev. Ian Shaw KIRBY-SMITH
Rev. Ian Shaw KIRBY-SMITH passed away on January 22, 2026, at the age of 89, surrounded by the love of his three daughters. He was born in Glasgow, Scotland, and spent the early part of his life in Malawi, Zimbabwe, and South Africa. Ian was an ordained minister for 60 years, serving most of his ministry within the United Church of Canada. He was predeceased by his loving wife, Kathleen, in 2012, with whom he shared 50 years of marriage, and his second wife, Elise De Kok, in 2024, as well as his sister Christine Harrison of New Zealand. Ian is survived by his daughters Jocelyn Churchill, Janet and Fred Elbe, and Bronwyn Kirby-Smith and Dino Domenico. He was the beloved Pa to Connor Elbe, Luke Churchill, Bridget Elbe, and Adam Stableford. Ian is also survived by his brother Denis and Cindy Reid of Baltimore. He will be fondly remembered by Kristopher Churchill, Colin and Sarah May and family, and nieces and nephews in Australia and New Zealand. The family is deeply grateful for the loving, kind, and compassionate care Ian received at St. Joseph's Villa from staff members Neomi, Lisa, Stefanie, Lina, Evelyn, Janelle, Reilly, Juliet, Monica, Frank, Marvin, Judy, Jenna, Sofia Yates, and Erika. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
