Forum topic: Donald Smith

Basil, thanks for relaying this sad news.

When I glanced at the heading "Donald Smith" I looked forward to reading yet another apparently slightly idiosyncratic contribution on a matter which Don had winkled out for residents' attention. He will be missed, though perhaps not by those he helped try to hold to account.

Basil has well illustrated Don's rare qualities of analytical thought, diligence and concern for the community. In so many areas of modern life there is an urgent need for such as he. We should learn from Don to look twice and 'read the small print' whilst ever looking for the good. With such a keen eye for the inadequacies around him he was not bitter, and always responded constructively.

Many have commented on Don's friendliness, yet he was a very private person, reluctant to seek help yet finding fulfilment in helping others. When I became his designated elder at Palmers Green, I may have been perceived as a would-be helper, and as such I was assured he did not expect to need the ministrations of an elder! Despite his many practical services over the years to Palmers Green United Reformed Church family, Don remained a 'floating worshipper' also attending three other churches of different denominations. I feel sure that in all of these he will be sadly missed by those who knew him best. We pray that his sudden passing was easy, and that if he was aware his time had come he was conscious of God's loving presence with him.