We are deeply saddened by the passing of our Board member Chris Smith on Monday 30th October.

Abbeyfield Chief Executive Paul Tennant said: “Chris was incredibly committed to Abbeyfield and made a huge contribution to the organisation in the UK and across the world in his eight years serving as a Trustee. He always put our residents at the heart of everything, and was passionate about making a positive difference to the lives of older people. Chris will be remembered for his empathy, kindness and wisdom and for truly embodying the ethos of Abbeyfield.”

“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.”

Chris retired in 2013 after 10 years as Chief of Staff to the Archbishop of Canterbury. Previously, he was General Manager of C Hoare & Co Bankers, General Secretary of the London Diocese, and with Price Waterhouse Coopers for 23 years.

He has been Deputy Chair of Governors for a large South London girls’ school and at Southwark College of Further Education. He also spent 17 years as Treasurer of Holy Trinity Church, Brompton.

Chris became an Abbeyfield Board member in 2015 and also sat on multiple committees within the organisation.

He will be greatly missed.