Wendy Smith MBE, a remarkable woman with a celebrated career of service and adventure, has chosen to continue her life’s journey at Frome Nursing Home. Wendy’s diverse life experiences, from serving in the Royal Navy to receiving an MBE from Queen Elizabeth II, reflect her independent and adventurous personality.
Firstly, Wendy’s journey began with her training at HMS CERES in Yorkshire, followed by a draft to HMS Victory. Serving in Malta between 1958 and 1959, she laid the foundation for a life rich in travel and service. After leaving and later re-joining the Navy, Wendy’s career spanned various roles and continents, including South Africa, where she became a travel consultant and tour guide in Johannesburg from 1964 to 1984. Her global expeditions allowed her to share the wonders of the world with many clients.
Then, in South Africa Wendy’s passion for sports led her to coach and administrate badminton in Southern Transvaal (now Gauteng) for 18 years. Her dedication earned her a position on the Board of the South Africa Badminton Union as Convenor of Coaches. Her sporting journey continued in England, where she assisted the England Team Manager at the Badminton Association of England Headquarters in Buckinghamshire.
Wendy returned to South Africa in 1986, taking on a pivotal role in the South African Naval Cadet Corps and working with the SPCA (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals). Her career resulted with a notable nine-year occupation at the British Consulate in Cape Town, where she served as Personal Assistant to the Consul-General. Wendy’s exemplary service was recognised when she was awarded the MBE by Queen Elizabeth II in Cape Town on 25th February 1998.
Today, Wendy now lives at Frome Nursing Home, a place that nurtures independence and encourages a continuation of life for its residents. I was lucky enough to visit and talk with Wendy here in Frome, alongside her Niece Sharon who resides in both England and South Africa. Over a cup of tea and biscuit I got to understand that Wendy is a very independent person who takes pride in looking after herself which is something that the care home supports her with.
Frome Nursing Home is dedicated to creating a safe and welcoming space that feels like home, ensuring that residents can maintain their independence and dignity.