Just as we began to find our footing after the passing of our dear trustee Tony Smith, our hearts were broken again. On Friday 23rd May, we lost another light, Josie Smith, Tony’s youngest sister and our quiet guiding force, after a short illness. She passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of her family.
Josie was our unsung hero. Where Tony led from the front, Josie worked quietly in the background, just as committed, just as visionary, and somehow even more humble. Tony never sought praise or recognition, Josie went a step further, never once stepping into the spotlight, though she helped shape so much of what we are today.
She was, in so many ways, the voice behind the voice, the gentle, steady hand that helped guide decisions, shape ideas, and keep our mission rooted in integrity. Like the old song says, “Behind every great man, there has to be a great woman” and Josie truly was that and more.
Fiercely independent, Josie had an incredible instinct for business, a deep sense of what was right, and a rare ability to combine wisdom with warmth. She always had a biscuit, a cake, and a cup of tea ready and with it, a conversation that usually began with “How’s your family?” before turning to plans, progress, and purpose.
Her concern was always for others always. Her love stretched across borders from the family kitchen table to the people of Malawi, whose lives were quietly enriched by her generosity and her unwavering belief in our work.
Losing Josie has been a shock. With Tony, we had time to prepare. But Josie’s passing came suddenly, and it has left a stillness we weren’t ready for. And yet, we smile imagining her now reunited with Tony, Mary, Lawrence and Gabby, surely already gathered around a heavenly kitchen table, continuing the conversations we so loved.
Josie, you spent your life looking after others. Now it’s time to rest.
But rest knowing that your legacy and Tony’s lives on. Here in Malawi, in every schoolchild, every job, every new dream that’s built from the foundations you helped lay. We will continue to steer the ship, and I promise I’ll listen. I’ll hear your voice clearly, gently guiding us forward.
Thank you for everything.
Rest well, Josie. With love always,
Zoe
Zoe
