It is with great sadness that I pass on the news that Chris Smith passed away on Sunday, 24th May. He had been unwell for several months recently.
The service for Chris will be held at Pitsea Crematorium on Thursday, 11th June at 1.20 pm. All are welcome to attend the service. However, the family would like to have a private reception afterwards just for family and a few close friends.
Tom and I have known Janet and Chris, and the whole "Smith" family, for over 40 years, since they were first at Hutton Bowmen. When Hutton Bowmen disbanded they joined us at Pilgrim and we have enjoyed many good times in their company. Chris had a good sense of humour and was always ready with a laugh or a smile when the occasion amused him.
Many years ago, when the County held their Championships at Crowlands Rugby Club (Romford), Chris and Janet ran the ECAA FITA Championships there. They also ran a number of coaching activities at Wicken Bonhunt on behalf of the Essex Guild of Archery Coaches.
Chris was a Senior Coach and was always happy to help archers with their shooting technique. He was awarded the County’s “Baldwin” Trophy for services to the County at their AGM on 5 February, 2006. In that same year, on 19th March, he was awarded the County’s prestigious “Red Tassel” and he also held the office of ECAA’s Vice President for the term 2009/2011.
Chris will be very much missed, not only by the members of Pilgrim Archers, but archers from many Essex clubs.
We send our most sincere condolences to Janet and the family.
Iris Major