I count myself very privileged, eternally and deeply grateful to have known Mrs Smith for so many years and for her constant, unconditional love. I am truly deeply honoured I had the opportunity to be part of the team to support Mrs Smith, where I could, in the latter years of her life.

Mrs Smith was never restricted by time, I was constantly amazed by what she did, never knowing all the hours she gave each and every day so freely – Mrs Smith walked in G-d’s timing.

Mrs Smith never was and never could be constricted – her life was lived fully and her entry to Heaven would have been so wonderful as someone very special had arrived home.… Read the rest

Where would I have been without you?

I think I would have been lost forever.
I could never be what I was meant to be until I met you and found a safe place under your wings.

Every day I give thanks for you – sometimes with joy and sometimes with tears.

I will never forget you ,

’til we meet again ❤️… Read the rest

Every moment of our lives is inspired by Marina’s love, all that we are is because of her – we are forever grateful.… Read the rest

Thank you for tending the Heavenly Father’s Garden. The Garden of Love.
No one spread more love in one lifetime.
Loved and missed so very deeply.… Read the rest

Dearest Marina

Your presence is felt daily as we draw upon your legacy.

Brenda… Read the rest

A year on …we miss your beautiful smile, such a wonderful human being x… Read the rest

A remarkable , kind, generous and compassionate woman; matriarch of a remarkable family. Her legacy at Beth Shalom is evident everywhere. She is not forgotten… Read the rest

I first met Marina and family in 1995-6. An extraordinary lady and family. She was amazing warm friendly and highly intelligent.

I visited the Holocaust centre recently on 4th June with colleagues from Generation2Generation. We had a marvellous day but really missed seeing Marina. I felt very sad arriving in the car park where she would have always been standing welcoming the visitors with her beaming smile and warm hug. She will always be remembered with great affection. xxxxxx… Read the rest

I can’t believe it has been a year since our beloved Mother left us. She has gone but is forever cherished in our hearts. Her teaching keeps us steady, her faith strengthens us, her love holds us close,

till we meet again……

The following was written on Marina Smith’s passing in July 2022

It’s strange that when someone passes away suddenly you have many things you wished you could say to them.

It’s like you have a bird’s eye view on their life that you don’t seem to have when they are alive and you start analysing.… Read the rest

Today on Mothers Day, I am joining with friends globally to especially remember Mrs Smith, whom to so many of us and to me, was a considered our Mother. 
I continue to endeavour to live my life according to the guidance, faith, encouragement, standards and care you set for us and the unwavering, unquestioning love you showed every single person you met.

In honour of you today, dear Mother, I raise my (almost) Royal Albert cup and thank you.

With love, Susanna … Read the rest

It was such a delight to share tea together using the tea set that Marina so generously gave to us and reminds us so much of being at Bethany. Our hearts are filled with gratitude for such love and faithfulness – may we always live true to these words and the example she set.

May her sons, Stephen and James, and her entire family always be kept safe and blessed in every way.… Read the rest

Like many others no doubt, I have fond memories of sitting in the cottage next to the National Holocaust Centre, that was home to Marina and Eddie, and enjoying such warm and generous hospitality.

There was a strong sense of being at home, it just felt familiar; just as you would be having a cup of tea and a chat with your grandparents.

Above all, I recall Marina’s curiosity to get to know her guests; she was single-mindedly interested to hear from them; their experiences, reflections and motivations.… Read the rest