RIP Melissa Smith - Funeral Details Updated

Published 13:02 on 3 Nov 2023

It is with the greatest sadness that we share the news that Melissa Smith (nee Sorrell) passed away peacefully on Tuesday morning, following her cancer battle.

Melissa has been a member of BSC since she was a child and has been an active member across both sailing and social aspects of the club.

Starting in her Mirror Dinghy 'Donald Duck,' Melissa sailed competitively in a number of classes, including Laser 2s, ISOs and Merlin Rockets, with guest appearances in Fireballs and the Tornado with her husband Stuart. With a big sailing family, Melissa also spent time with her nieces and nephew teaching them to sail in Topazs and Mirrors, and most recently supporting her great niece's first steps into sailing - family and being together in boats has always been of huge importance.

Melissa has been an integral part of the sailing club Christmas lunch for the past 30+ years, at first with her parents Glynis and Graham, then in the past few years alongside her sisters Mandy and Donna, to round off the sailing club year in true BSC family style. As well as helping to plan, cook and serve the meal, she was always one of the last to leave on Christmas Lunch day, entertaining and making sure everybody had the best start to the Christmas holiday.

Over the years, Melissa also supported BSC as part of a race team with Oz, leading a number of events. Her high levels of efficiency and organisation being key to the success of many open meetings and national championships.

More recently, Melissa has been found on the beach, in the bar or at the beachhut enjoying watching the racing with a drink in hand and being part of the post race debriefs. Often found telling a joke, her infectious giggle and 'cheek' will be a lasting memory for many of our members.

Melissa leaves behind her husband Stuart, sisters Mandy & Donna along with their husbands Andy & Tim and her nieces and nephews: Sarah, Joanne, James, Zoë, Rebecca and Katie.

She will be incredibly missed by all our members.

Melissa's funeral service will take place on Monday 20th November, at 12noon, at All Saints Church, Brightlingsea, followed by a family burial. The Wake will follow at Brightlingsea Sailing Club.

Family flowers only and Melissa requested donations to St Helena Hospice, please follow the link below to donate

https://melissasmith.muchloved.com

Last updated 12:28 on 4 March 2024