A popular teacher who spent 34 years of his career at Monmouth School has died, aged 87.

Roger Smith joined Monmouth in September 1955 as Master in Charge of Spanish.

He latterly taught A level Economics before becoming Director of Sixth Form Studies in September 1982.

Mrs Jo Booth said: “My husband, Richard, owes Roger a great deal as he helped him achieve his Cambridge place to study French and Spanish at Fitzwilliam College. We will never forget him.”

Former pupil, Tony Kear, said: “Whenever I recall and recount how I started my working career I fondly refer to Roger’s wise counsel that started me on the road to my future success without university.

“His Economics and Spanish lessons were delivered in such a way that he commanded respect and made them and my school life so enjoyable. I am truly sorry to learn of his passing.”

And former Monmouth School for Girls’ pupil, Kate Stewart, said: “I loved our Spanish lessons with Mr Smith. He was a fabulous teacher and we loved our outings to the boys’ school to see him.”

Educated at Lincoln School and Queen’s College, Oxford, Mr Smith joined Monmouth under the Headship of Revd, Cecil Cullingford.

After serving as a House Tutor in Town House, Mr Smith was appointed as Housemaster of Hereford House in September 1962, where he remained for 19 years.

After stepping down from this role, he took on the newly-created post of Director of Sixth Form Studies in September 1982 until his retirement in 1989.

Mr Smith was made a Freeman of The Haberdashers’ Company on 6th February 1990.

A keen sportsman, Mr Smith was also politically active and served as the Mayor of Monmouth in 1975.

Mr Smith, who died on 11th October, is survived by wife Shirley (formerly Headmaster’s Secretary) and their three children – Anne, Jill and Phil – all of whom attended Haberdashers’ Monmouth Schools.

Mr Smith’s thanksgiving service will take place in Monmouth School for Boys’ Chapel on Wednesday 30th October at 11.30am. Please join the family afterwards in the library.