I miss my mother deeply but remember every day she was driven by her Christian principles, embraced the concept in Judaism of Tikkun Olam (repairing a broken world) and embodied the Rwandan values of Ubumuntu: Humanity and Greatness of Heart. Her belief shone in her life and acts. For the: stranger, you shared your home[…]
27
Jun
Jun
We are not very good at dying, and yet, it is the one thing in our lives that we are all certain to do sometime. It is one of the great acts of living – some die in valor, some in pain, some young, others old – and my mother has been preparing for it every day[…]
26
Jun
Jun
Edward Smith Tribute to Marina Smith Sunday 26th June 2022 It was June 1961. I was sitting in the Methodist Minister’s office after Sunday service. There was a little knock at the door – and there in the doorway was a gorgeous girl. ‘My car won’t start. Can I use your phone?’ Bless that broken-down[…]
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[…]
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[…]
Forever in our hearts! Sleep peacefully Mom!
My dearest Marina, I think of you so very often and, oh, how I miss your wonderful letters which were always so chockful of news and delightful pictures of your family, especially all your beautiful grandchildren. You provided them with so much knowledge regarding other faiths, a faith other than their own and you told[…]
Every moment of our lives is inspired by Marina’s love, all that we are is because of her – we are forever grateful.
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.
Dearest Marina Your presence is felt daily as we draw upon your legacy. Brenda
A year on …we miss your beautiful smile, such a wonderful human being x
A remarkable , kind, generous and compassionate woman; matriarch of a remarkable family. Her legacy at Beth Shalom is evident everywhere. She is not forgotten
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[…]
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[…]
25
Jun
Jun
Today Theo told me, “I don’t miss her, I REMEMBER her. In here.” (Pointing to his temples with both index fingers). I remember you in the quiet places; in the joyful times; in the difficult times when it’s hard to see the light; in the busy family moments, and the solitary occasions. I remember you,[…]
25
Jun
Jun
The Beautiful Swallow soared higher and higher, disappearing into the Golden Skies. For a moment, the Sparrow felt lost and alone. But no. Look up. See? There. The Beautiful Swallow had left a trail to follow. For there was much work still to be done. And The Story was far from over. In fact, it[…]
21
Mar
Mar
Celebrating and sharing a wonderful legacy on 19 March 2023, Mother’s Day……”Let there be Love”. Thank you Mrs Marina Smith for loving us and showing us the way, a Mother to so many. Thank you dear Smith family for enabling us to do so.
21
Mar
Mar
Your memory is a blessing. With love and deepest gratitude always
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[…]
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[…]
19
Mar
Mar
It has been 9 months since you went to Our Father in Heaven But you are always in my thoughts. Here we are today, 19 March 2023 celebrating Mother’s Day with all your spiritual children and friends around the World, sharing love. You are a Blessing in my life. Well, definitely we have to use[…]
10
Sep
Sep
My dear Mrs Smith, Thank you for everything. Words cannot express it – your generosity, your love and care, your deep understanding. You welcomed me into your home, treating me like your own child. You brought me to my faith and through that taught and equipped me for life. And what an example you set[…]
15
Aug
Aug
Just wanted to send my thoughts to the whole Smith family, especially Mr Smith today on what would have been your 58th wedding anniversary. Love Never Fails
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[…]