Carol Lee O'Coffey

In Loving Memory of

Carol Lee O’Coffey

Sunrise June 11, 1942 – Sunset August 22, 2026

It is with great sadness, and a quiet sense of peace, that the family of Carol Lee (Robinson) O’Coffey announces her passing on August 22, 2026, in Smithers, BC, at the age of 84.

Carol was born June 11, 1942, in Smithers to George William “Topsy” Robinson and Winnifred “Winnie” (Hann) Robinson. She was raised in Smithers alongside her sister, Gail, and remained connected to the community she always considered home.

Carol graduated from Smithers Secondary School with the Class of 1960. During her high school years, she was involved in student council and was nominated as the “Ideal Girl,” recognized for her laugh and sense of humour. She graduated alongside her lifelong best friend, Sharon (O’Neil) Morin, with whom she shared a friendship that lasted throughout their lives.

Following graduation, Carol began her working life with Canadian National Railway (CNR). Her career took her first to Prince Rupert and then to Edmonton in 1961. It was in Edmonton in 1962 that Carol met Allan “Al” O’Coffey, the love of her life. Al proposed just three weeks after they began dating—because, as they say, when you know, you know. They were married on June 30, 1962, in Smithers and shared 64 years of marriage - marked by enduring love, steadfast companionship, shared joys, and the resilience to navigate life’s inevitable bumps together.

Together, Carol and Al built a life filled with family, work, travel, adventure and community. Their journey took them from Edmonton back to Smithers, where they lived on Broadway Avenue and billeted junior hockey players for five years. In 1975, with their newborn daughter Tara, Dennis, Tim and Erin, they moved to Winfield in the Okanagan. Over the years, they also called Mackenzie, Hazelton, Lamont Alberta home, spent several winters snow-birding in Mexico and Arizona, and eventually returned to the North – Granisle then Smithers, living at the Fulton Apartments and later at the Meadows.

Family and friends were at the Heart of Carol’s Life

Carol and Al were the proud parents of Dennis, Tim, Shawna, Erin and Tara. Their first four children were adopted—Dennis in 1965, Tim in 1967, Shawna in 1969 and Erin in 1970—followed by a surprise blessing, Tara, in 1975.

Carol took great joy in being a grandmother and great-grandmother. Her family was her greatest source of happiness, and she especially cherished family gatherings, holidays, birthdays, camping trips and simply spending time together.

She will be lovingly remembered by her husband, Al O’Coffey; children Dennis (Charmaine) O’Coffey, Tim (Susan) O’Coffey, Erin (Rob) O’Coffey-Van Somer and Tara (Shane) Green; her grandchildren Raelee (Brendan), Araceli, Denali, Ainslee, Krysten, Jada (Robert) and Daylen; bonus grandchildren Devan and Jessee, Daryl (Mikala) and Charlie (passed) ; and her great-grandchildren Kayleb (Elise), Olivia, Scarlett, Mia, Hanna and Kaia, along with Jason, Connor and Layla, who were additional blessings in her life. She is also survived by her beloved sister, Gailbird.

Carol was predeceased by her parents, Topsy and Winnie Robinson, and her daughter, Shawna Lee O’Coffey.

A Life of Work and Community Service

Carol was a hard-working, dependable and organized woman who took pride in whatever she undertook. Much of her working life was spent in secretarial and accounts payable positions. Her career included working with CNR in Smithers, Prince Rupert and Edmonton; the Bank of Nova Scotia in Smithers; Probation in Mackenzie; BC Forestry in Hazelton; and Carnaby Mill in Hazelton.

Carol and Al also co-owned Wayside Foods in Smithers with their son Dennis before later returning to Alberta, where Carol worked at Suncore Energy before retiring.

Carol and Al's commitment to community service was deeply rooted in the loss of their infant daughter, Shawna, who passed away at just five and a half months old. Following Shawna's death, the family became involved with the Kinsmen and Kinnettes, beginning a lifetime of community involvement and fundraising. Carol and Al dedicated many years to supporting their communities and eventually became lifetime members.

Carol was determined, independent, capable and never afraid to speak her mind. Those who knew her well knew exactly where they stood with Carol. She could be strong-willed and, at times, challenging—but beneath that strong exterior was a softer heart, filled with love for her family and the people she cared about.

Carol treasured the many friendships she made throughout her life and loved keeping in touch with people from all the places she and Al had lived.

She enjoyed travelling and camping throughout Northern BC, often alongside her dear friends Roy and Jackie. She adored her dogs, especially her much-loved and last companion, Sumo, her quirky little Shih Tzu prince.

One of Carol's greatest passions was quilting. She could often be found in one of her quilting rooms, happily settled behind her sewing machine, surrounded by mountains of colourful fabric. She also loved her plants, particularly her treasured blooming Hoyas and Christmas cacti. Her birds, birdfeeders and windchimes in later times would bring back sweet memories of the little cabin on Babine lake where Carol and Al spent many winter and summer days relaxing with friends and family.

Carol's humour, determination, independence, and warmth will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her. She had a strong shell, but those who were fortunate enough to see beyond it knew the soft and loving heart underneath.

Her memory will live on through her family, friends and the many communities she touched throughout her life. She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered and forever cherished.

Celebration of Life

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, September 20, 2026, at Pioneer Place Activity Centre in Smithers, BC, beginning at 2:00 p.m. Refreshments will follow the service.

The family extends their sincere gratitude to the caregivers and staff at the SCSA Meadows and Bulkley Valley Lodge, the medical staff at Bulkley Valley District Hospital, Bulkley Valley Hospice, and all the friends and caregivers who provided Carol with compassion, kindness and support.

Rest peacefully, Carol. Your memory will remain in the hearts of all who loved you.

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