Memorial Service Wednesday, April 15, 2026 · 2:00 PM· The Pro Cathedral of St. George's , St.Kitts
🕊️ Celebration of Life · Thursday, April 9, 2026 · 10:00 AM · St.John's Cathedral, Antigua

Your Words of Remembrance

"May his soul rest in peace, and at that appointed time by the grace of God rise to everlasting glory. To a man who was willing to always answer the questions of an inquisitive child. Go with God, Dean Smithen."

Leslie Scotland

"He was such an inspiring, loving and kind teacher to us as little children; who was known as Teacher Goodolph (as some couldn’t say “Rudolph”. He was a great family friend. He always wanted to know how our eldest brother, Archie was doing. May the good Lord grant him eternal rest and peace and comfort his family and loved ones at this time. Swanstons, Jessups, Nevis"

Mayra Swanston Watts

"To all family members, my condolences. May his soul rest in peace. He and I attended the same elementary school, however, he was in at a higher grade level. To God be all the glory! "

Maureen Fraser

"What a Man! A great Man! A servant of God, His Church, nations, especially SKN. Serving over 50 years, faithfully. A Man of grace and strength. A hard worker, and one who always abounded in the Work of the Lord. I thank God for him, his inspiration and the example he has been to generations. Sincerest condolences to his family and friends and the Anglican Community."

Ira Penny

It was a great pleasure to have worked with Dean Rudolph Smithen Emeritus. He was a very pleasant, kind and undertanding individual. I will always remember an article he wrote in the Angelus News Paper entitled "Reverence in Church." To date I still adhere and reflect òn such article. Dean, you live a good life as a servant of the Most High, you have now taken your flight to meet with your Maker. Rest in perpetual peace. Sincerely Connie Timothy

Connie Timothy

I join with the thousands who have been blessed by the Ministry and friendship of Rev. Fr Rudolph Smithen. He was cherished by so many but God has chosen him to be with Him. His charm and gentle smile will be missed. May his legacy and memories live on. Sincerest condolences to his children and the entire family.

Vernice Hendrickson

I offer thanks to God for Dean Smithen faithful ministry and mission as he lived out his vocation as a priest in the church of Christ Jesus, our Lord. May God in Christ comfort his family and friends with God’s gracious and loving care. May he rest in the peace of Christ and rise in glory.

Canon Derek Stapleton

A Tribute to Reverend Rudolph SmithenTo the world, Reverend  James Rudolph Smithen was a shepherd, a teacher, and a voice of comfort. But to us, he was simply "Uncle Rudolph"—the steady heart of our family.

My mother’s dear brother lived a life defined by the Gospel he preached. He didn't just speak of grace; he extended it. He didn't just preach about love; he practiced it every day in the way he cared for his siblings and guided his nieces and nephews.

Uncle, you have fought the good fight, you have finished the race, and you have kept the faith. While our hearts are heavy, we take comfort in knowing you are now resting in the arms of the Master you served so well. Your legacy lives on in every life you touched and every prayer you offered on our behalf.

Deavene Guishard

When I was younger during Sunday School and confirmation classes I always considered Dean Smithen as "strict", however he instilled in me the reverence that all matters of the church required. As time passed, I learned to appreciate him as he visited my Grandfather who was a shut-in, my Grandfather always looked forwad to his visits until his passing years ago. On behalf of my mother Violet Samuel and I, we extend condolences to his family and may he rest in peace.

Jerniecia Edwards

"Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them. (Rev. 14:13)In this season of Lent we are expressing our final goodbye to our dear brother, but we do not sorrow even as others who have no hope. Dean Rudolph Smithen chose in his lifetime to live an exemplary life before God and man. He chose to be an ambassador for His Lord, Jesus Christ thus fulfilling the great commission. He did not see death as an end, but as graduation to a higher realm of wide elevation; a joyous transition to a better place, having a desire to depart and to be with Christ which is far better. With steadfast faith, passion, commitment and dedication to the work of the Living God, he served with boldness and distinction impacting many lives.It is with humility I can boldly state, ""You have fought the good fight, you have finished your course, you have kept the faith."" Henceforth, there is laid up for you a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge shall give you at that day when you will also hear, ""Well done my good and faithful servant; enter into the joy of your Lord.""In a quiet and meaningful way you were a tower of strength to us. Memories of you will be long lasting. Rest in Eternal Peace.Clara, Magaret, Maureen, Hilda"

Clara Smithen

"Regrettably, I didn't know the Dean. I would have loved to have a conversation with him about life, faith, personal relationship with God, how experience influences perception, spiritual convictions, tenets of wisdom, serving humanity. Unfortunately, his earthly work was done, he had done his teaching and coaching and information sharing within his designated time. The loss is mine but what is not lost is the amazing daughter he and obviously his wife gifted life. I've worked with Andrea who is honest, intelligent, diligent, disciplined, insightful, incisive, decisive, respectful, pleasant, hardworking and accomplished. It is evident that Dean Smithen placed maximum importance on paying attention to his family. It shows. Andrea, may the counsel, guidance, love, wisdom and all the other gifts you were blessed with from your dad, remain as your comfort and consolation in God time of grief. Condolences to you, Hymie, your brother and family as you navigate your emotions and loss and be comforted by your cherished memories. Donna Chaia"

Donna Chaia

It’s been a pleasure Dean.Your memory is a blessing to all . May you rest in power with ancestors and rise in Glory.

Sandra Samaroo-Cassius

"One of Dean Smithen’s outstanding achievements was the monumental effort and success in rebuilding the St. John’s Cathedral following collapse of a stone floor slab in 2009. He acted just in time to save further deterioration and harm to worshipers. The brand new interior stands as testimony to his strength, perseverance and determination. I am thankful to the Dean Emeritus for his unfailing effort. Others also acted; but Dean Smithen led the way. God bless him. Amen!"

Lionel Max Hurst

"Condolences to his entire family, loved ones and friends. Rest in eternal peace Dean Smitten🙏✝️"

Erma

"Dean Smithen, for me, was the disciplinarian and teacher. He made it clear that church is order. When one is church, we are to act a certain way. Church is serious and always be respectful in deportment. There is no slouching, pay attention, and fully participate. Dean Smithen managed us his flock well. Walking for confirmation was a defining moment for me. Those two years we walked were priceless. We learnt hymns. We read books of the faith. Dean Smithen both the teacher and disciplinarian instilled a deep sense of pride in me. We had to report on the sermon from the previous Sunday. He asked questions about the lessons in Sunday School. We were never to be late for class either and appropriately dressed or we were sent home to change and return. We were all made the better for this. I was blessed to have had been able to be touched and shaped by Dean Smithen. Even more blessed that my sons experienced him on the altar. They admired him because they heard the stories of Dean Smithen. Although a brief time, they were influenced for the better. Deeply missed but treasured memories. May God continue to comfort his family during this time of loss and grief."

Charisse Gumbs

"My first spiritual leader, Dean Emeritus The Very Reverend Rudolph Smithen, has ascended to eternal glory, reunited with our heavenly Maker. 😭 💔 Although today was inevitable, I had hoped it wouldn’t come to pass. Father Smithen, who served as Priest at St George’s Anglican Church with St Barnabas from 1978 to 2003, played a transformative role in my spiritual development, guiding me toward a profound faith. On July 3rd, 1983, he presented me to Bishop Orland Lindsay to be confirmed, a pivotal moment in my spiritual journey. As an altar server, I received invaluable spiritual guidance and Anglican teachings from Fr Smithen, who embodied the perfect blend of firmness, compassion, and love. He was a shining example of discipline, integrity, and thoughtfulness, grooming us to be respectful, God-fearing high achievers. I vividly recall a memorable Christmas Eve service when a few of us arrived late, and Fr Smithen, with his characteristic firmness, taught us a valuable lesson in punctuality and accountability. We were suspended until Easter. His leadership was truly inspirational, and his impact on our community was immeasurable. Fr Smithen was a devoted teacher, always ready to listen, offer guidance, and provide support. He worked tirelessly to build a community founded on love, faith, and mutual respect. His love and dedication to his flock were evident in the way he knew each child by name, along with their parents, creating a sense of belonging and unity. The Anglican communion flourished under his visionary leadership. His book which was released last would be a good read for everyone. Fr Smithen and his wife, who predeceased him, held a special place in my heart, and their bond with my family remains unforgettable. Although his transfer to Antigua left a void in our lives, technology enabled us to stay connected, and his uplifting messages and conversations remain etched in my memory forever. Fr Smithen was a legendary spiritual leader, leaving an indelible mark on my life, the island of St Kitts and Nevis, Antigua, and the entire Caribbean region. I am eternally grateful to have expressed my deepest appreciation to him and thanked him for laying the foundation for my spiritual journey. His legacy will live on in our hearts, and I will deeply miss him. My mom will miss his heartfelt phone calls. Fr Smithen’s earthly mission is complete; his job is finished. Well done, Fr. Smithen; rest in eternal peace. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his son Andrew Smithen and daughter Annie B Smithen-Henry. His sister Gloria Caines and the rest of the family May God’s comforting presence envelop you during this difficult time, and may the cherished memories of your beloved bring you solace and peace. God has called home his faithful servant, and may his remarkable legacy continue to inspire generations to come."

Avenice

"Dean Emeritus Rudolph Smithen was a source of inspiration and encouragement to me in service to the Lord over the many years he ministered at St George's. His name will remain indelibly etched in my heard and and mind as a dedicatedly servant of God.He worked tirelessly to bring others to Christ's Kingdom, even after retirement. I therefore thank God for his tremendous service and extend condolences to his family. May his soul rest in eternal peace and rise in glory."

Eugene Petty

Condolences to the children and wider family circle

Ingrid O'Marde