It is with great sadness that we share that Duncan Forsyth, our Academic Manger, died on Thursday 27 April 2023 from cancer.
Duncan joined the college in 2018 and he has been an integral part of our community and a beloved member of our staff team who will be greatly missed. Whilst so much of what Duncan did within his role was ‘behind-the-scenes’ – whether that be managing government data returns, meeting the reporting requirements from our accrediting bodies or negotiating the mysteries of the inner workings of moodle (and so much more) – he has had a hugely significant impact on the life of the college and he leaves a legacy through his work. Duncan had a unique talent for approaching tasks with his characteristic humour, humility, dedication and diligence. We remember the brilliant way he would bring levity by infusing briefings and inductions on topics such as GDPR and quality assurance with Taylor Swift references, Hogwarts comparisons, or even finding a way to turn it into an opportunity to preach the gospel. His desire to continue working through years of treatment and illness, and continuing to deliver with excellence, commitment and a servant-hearted attitude right to the end, has been incredibly inspiring for all of us who have journeyed with him.
Duncan joined the team already living with cancer, and his time on staff has been underpinned throughout by his absolute faithfulness and steadfastness. When Duncan spoke about his faith, particularly during the hard times, it always left an impression, and hearing him share his testimony or preach the gospel you couldn’t help but be moved and impacted by his deep faith and the way that he understood and lived out the words of scripture.
Duncan has been a support to so many and done so much to serve the college and those who are part of its life. Duncan will be acutely missed by staff and students alike.
Please pray and give thanks for Duncan’s life, the impact that he has made on each of us individually and as an institution. Please pray for his wife Cerys, step-son Dylan, family and friends, and for us as a community as we grieve the loss of Duncan.
Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.”
The family would love you to share stories, memories, condolences and pictures on Duncan's memorial webpage.
Cards of condolence can be sent via the college at the following address and they will be passed on to the family: Cerys Forsyth c/o St Mellitus College, HTB Courtfield Gardens, Collingham Road, London, SW5 0LX
Flowers and gifts:
In case you didn't know, Duncan loved theology! He and Cerys agreed that they would love to use any donations following his death to invest in furthering a love for theology in Jesus' church. Therefore, instead of flowers or gifts, the family invite you to donate to a pot that will be restricted to being used for this purpose. To do this please use this link.
The funeral service will be held on Friday 19th May 2023. If you would like to receive details for attending the funeral and celebration of Duncan's life please contact the college (info@stmellitus.ac.uk)