Remembering Jv Patry-Smith

Jv Patry-Smith
2001 - 2024

It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we share the news of the passing of Jv Patry-Smith. As an accomplished thrower in a 5’4” frame, no one could ever question the strength, toughness and determination of Jv. Most who knew her were probably unaware of the greater battle she fought in silence and ultimately lost to mental illness. Such was her character to not burden others with her troubles.

Jv was known as extremely polite and kind but also as a fierce competitor that never settled for anything less than excellence. She was a much loved, lifetime member of the Royal City Track and Field Club. She was also a member of the UBC Thunderbirds Varsity Track and Field team until her graduation from UBC in 2022.

Her presence on teams and her accomplishments were many:

2016 U16 Team BC - Legion National Youth Track and Field Championships - bronze medal in javelin and shot put
2016 BC Summer Games Javelin Champion and shot put bronze medalist
2017 Team BC - Les Jeux de la francophonie canadienne - gold medal in javelin and discus
2017 U18 Canadian Javelin Champion
2018 U18 Team BC (javelin) - Legion National Youth Track and Field Championships
2018 U18 Team Canada (javelin) - Jamaican Invitational
2019 U20 Team BC (javelin) - Canadian Track & Field Championships
2019-2022 UBC Thunderbirds Varsity Track and Field - NAIA All-American in javelin
2022 Team BC (javelin) - Canada Summer Games

Jv’s tragic passing serves as a somber reminder of the profound impact mental health struggles can have on individuals, their families, and their friends. Let us unite in compassion and empathy for those struggling with mental health issues. It is incumbent upon us to foster understanding, offer support, and eliminate any stigma that still exists. If you are suffering, please speak to your loved ones, friends, family, and health care professionals to surround yourself with support.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the BC SPCA can be made in honour of Jv at https://spca.bc.ca/donations/make-a-donation
Jv had a fervent love and respect for all animals.

If you or someone you know needs help, please call one of these numbers:

- Crisis: Call 9-8-8 OR 1 (800) SUICIDE 1 (800) 784-2433

- Mental Health Support: (604) 310-6789