Sagachiiwe giizhigook
In a moment that has changed our lives, Lauren passed away unexpectedly on July 28, 2026, in Thunder Bay, Ont.
Lauren, age 39, was born on January 4, 1987, in Fort Frances, Ont., to parents Sharlene Smith and Joe Hunter.
Lauren’s three children, Shayanna, Cassia, and Kaysin, will miss their “momma” “momma bear” very deeply and will continue on with their lives, with all the love and kindness that Lauren has taught them. Also left to continue on courageously is Lauren’s partner James Bird. Lauren is survived by her parents Sharlene Smith and Joe Hunter; siblings Nigel, Alisha, CJ, and Jailyne.
Lauren will be greeted in the spirit world by her grandparents Sally Smith, Billy Smith, Bella Hunter, and Albert Hunter Sr.; as well as her favourite cousins and friends; as well as her children’s grandpa, Darryl Penassi.
In her life here on earth, Lauren spent her childhood on Rainy River First Nations (Manitou). She attended Our Lady of The Way School in Stratton where her creative and fun-loving spirit blossomed. Lauren also attended Fort Frances High School and always wanted to complete her grade 12. Later on, in her adult life, Lauren moved to Thunder Bay where she raised her children; Debbie Bird and Darryl Penassi were always of great and loving support to Lauren and her children.
Lauren loved to laugh and be a kid with her children. She loved teasing about their cats but had a deep love for cats, and often reminisced about her childhood cat Rocky. When she attended pow wows in the area or in the States, Lauren would always be excited to watch the chicken dancers; they were her favourite dance category to watch. Lauren also loved going for walks with her kids, celebrating birthdays, or encouraging them on their accomplishments.
Lauren was a beautiful mom, partner, daughter, sister, niece, cousin, and friend. Let your memories of her always bring a smile to your face and a softness to your heart. She would want that.
Visitation will be held at the Northridge Funeral Home on Monday August 10, 2026, from 4 – 8 p.m. Traditional service will be on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at 10 a.m. at the Northridge Funeral Home. Elder Gilbert Smith officiating. Interment will follow at Rainy River First Nations with a luncheon at the gymnasium.
Pallbearers are Chris Henderson, Derrick Henderson, Chad Smith, Tyler Hunter, Shawn Brown, and Nathan DeBungee.
