Michael Smith eulogy

Michael Rhoades Smith

It is with great sadness that we share the news of the death of Michael Smith, who taught at West Buckland School from 1991 to 1998.

Born on 18 March 1937, he passed away on 28 September 2025. Educated at Felsted School, he went on to read History at St Catharine’s College, Cambridge, beginning a lifelong passion for the subject and for education more broadly.

He spent much of his career at Felsted School as a Housemaster, teaching History and coaching a wide range of sports, including cricket, rugby, hockey, and squash. In 1976, he moved to Vancouver, British Columbia, where he taught senior students at St George’s School for eleven years and introduced field hockey to the school.

Returning to England, he became Headmaster of St Michael’s Preparatory School in North Devon in 1986 before moving to West Buckland in 1991. There, he taught History and A-Level Politics, served as Housemaster of Grenville House, and later became Senior Master under the headships of Michael Downward and John Vick.

He remained deeply committed to sport, coaching girls’ hockey and playing a key role in developing the school’s squash programme alongside Tony Evans. He also organised the North Devon Junior Closed Tournament, hosted at the school.

At this year’s OWBA squash match, two of his sons, Oliver (91–98 G) and Luke (91–99 G), returned to play against the school. They were delighted to see the 1994–1995 fixture list still displayed on the squash board - clearly fondly remembered as “the glory days.” It was a spirited occasion, but the OWBA, with the imprint of their former coaches still evident, proved too strong for the current pupils and won the match.

Michael’s passion for history never faded, nor did his interest in the lives and stories of others. He spoke with great affection about his time at West Buckland, often saying that his greatest joy was getting to know the students and watching them develop during their years at the school.

I think this message, sent by former pupil - and former squash captain Alex Wallace (94-99G) who had the privilege of playing against Michael in his final match - captures him perfectly:

 “His enthusiasm and passion for life were infectious. It was always such a joy to spend any amount of time with him. The spark in his eye and the widest of grins always made me feel so welcome, comfortable and special. Much like Mr Hymer, Mr Smith was also a significant reason I have followed the teaching path. He made it such tremendous fun; he loved people and saw the best in them. I am sure there will be so many accolades that will pour in. I shall certainly miss him”.

In his later years, he lived in Poole. He is survived by his wife, Roslyn; his four children, Claire, Ian, Oliver, and Luke; and his eleven grandchildren.