Faith Sheena Smith

November 30, 1968 - September 2, 2000

Faith was one of those special people who used her talents in fulfilment of her dreams and in the service of others. Hers was an indomitable spirit, which was seldom deflated by the vagaries of life.  

The fact that faith lost both legs at 18 did not stop her from reaching for the stars. After graduating from the University of Technology in Kingston, Jamaica with a diploma in Architectural Technology she then went on to do the Bachelor of Science in Physical Planning and Environmental Resource Development. 

Faith climbed rapidly to the top of her field. She was not only resourceful but also determined. She learnt to drive and bought a car, a feat that many still marvel at. 

But in spite of her drive and numerous achievements Faith realised that the most crucial aspect of her life was missing, a relationship with God. Faith was baptised in the campus ministry shortly after she lost both legs. However a couple years later she fell away. It took a near death experience in December 1999 for her to realise that her most important focus needed to be her relationship with God. 

Faith was restored in March 2000, approximately 10 years after she fell away. She studied with Karlene Jean-Baptiste, Caroline Mahfood, Pat Williams and Andrea Watson; all except one of these women had studied with her while on campus. 

After her restoration, Faith gave her heart in every way. She raised over five thousand dollars for the annual Walkathon and did all her 25 laps around the National Stadium. In addition, she sold 22 tickets for Women’s Day. Faith also co-ordinated the Love Basket for her Sector and worked assiduously to see that everyone contributed. 

Undoubtedly, Faith shone in her life as a disciple but the brightest spark in her life was her relationship with her 13 year-old son, Shane. Shortly after Faith was restored Shane was baptised in the Teens ministry. 

On September 2, 2000 Faith died peacefully in her sleep. She lived a life that was purposeful but her light has not gone out, her son is still faithful today and her sister is now studying the Bible.