We regret to record the death of Mr. Arthur E. Smith, which took place suddenly at King's Somborne, on February 17th. The funeral took place on February 21st, and the Winchester and Portsmouth Diocesan Guild were represented by the Master, Mr. G. Williams (North Stoneham), Mr. W. Andrews (Winchester), Mr. E. J. Harding (Portsmouth), Mr. W. Linter (Fareham), Mr. J. Smith (Wickham) and Mr. G. Pullinger (Bishopstoke).
Following the lowering of the coffin, a course of Grandsire Triples was rung on the handbells over the grave by E. J. Harding 1-2, W. Andrews 34, G. Williams 5-6, W. Linter 7-8.
Mr. Smith was of a very jolly nature, and well known to Hampshire ringers. His car was often at the disposal of members for getting to out-of-the-way towers. He had taken part in three peals for the Winchester and Portsmouth Guild, and was very interested in all matters connected with ringing. He was largely instrumental in getting the old five bells at King's Somborne rehung and increased to six a few years ago.
As senior member of a firm of agricultural engineers, he was well known to farmers in the counties of Hampshire, Wiltshire and Dorset.
The Ringing World No. 1302, March 6th, 1936, page 158