RIP Betty Smith

Published 14:14 on 27 Mar 2020

It is with great sadness that we share the news of the death of long standing BSC member Betty Smith, who died on 26 March 2020 aged 84 following a battle with pancreatic cancer and Alzheimer's.

Betty joined the club in the early 1970's with her husband Tony and sons Mark and Jon. Always a somewhat reluctant sailor she nonetheless crewed for Tony in his GP14, although was always first to suggest they might not use the kite on that particular reach! Our picture is of Betty in the family's first GP14 sail number 161 in around 1971.

Ashore Betty was a stalwart of the galley team, especially on cadet nights, and was often to be found sitting on the bench under the start hut keeping a watchful eye on the fun and games afloat.

Later she enjoyed cruising in the Wayfarer with Tony, and until quite recently she continued to love watching Mark and his boys racing, especially on Thursday evenings.

Unfortunately, the current restrictions mean that Betty's funeral will of necessity be limited to just her very closest family. But all our thoughts and prayers are with Mark and Jon and their families at this most difficult of times.

Last updated 08:43 on 3 February 2025