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11 January 1935 to 29 April 1999 Bible Text for Funeral Service: Psalms 101:6 Mine eyes shall be upon the faithful of the land, that they may dwell with me: he that walketh in a perfect way, he shall serve me.
Hymns sung at the funeral: - My Jesus is My Dearest Friend Play Hymn: Courtesy of Rainer |
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Short biography
as read out at the funeral service, 1st May 1999, at Wentworth Church Hall
Victor Samuel Alexander Smith was born in Durban on 11 January 1935 to the late Priest Niklaas and Mary Magdelene Smith. He grew up in a family of 10 children, 5 brothers and 5 sisters.
He schooled at Melbourne Road and then Umbilo Road High School. After completing his schooling, he found employment on a ship where he worked until the age of 20.
After his employ at sea, he returned to Durban, where he found employment at a Dunlop. In 1995 he was boarded as a result of ill health, after 40 years of service.
Victor’s ministerial career began in 1957 when he was ordained Deacon out of the hand of Apostle Bell, and later, also by the Apostle Bell, he was ordained Priest. He also served as choir conductor in Clairwood congregration.
As a priest, he served as rector of Durban (flats) congregation and Mayville congregation. He was involved in missionary activities in Chesterville and Wiggins Road.
In 1995, he was retired early from his ministerial duties by the Apostle C. Barnes, as a result of his ill health.
In 1957, he met Maureen McPhail of Clairwood, whom he married on 29 November 1958. They were married 40 years last year.
Their marriage has been blessed with 4 children, 2 sons and 2 daughters; and 3 grandchildren. Out of their offspring, came a district minister.
Victor was diagnosed with serious lung disease in 1984 and his health continued to deteriorate. On Monday 26 April 1999, he was admitted to hospital in a critical condition. His condition did not improve and he was peacefully called home on Thursday morning at 5AM in his sleep.
He was known and loved for his direct communication which sometimes caused pain but mostly enlightenment, but most importantly he is remembered by the many who say ‘He was like a father to me’, by what he has done.
His children remember him for his sacrifice of self so that they could all complete their education. Many others remember him as the peacemaker who never took sides.
He is survived by his wife, 4 children, 3 grandchildren, 1 Brother and 3 Sisters.
©2001, c.d.s.
Article: Why Do We Observe Memorials
Poem: Memory of Vernon Smith
