Olwen Iris McIntyre (née Ashman), born in 1937, was laid to rest on Thursday 27th June, leaving behind a shining example of a life lived in steadfast dedication to God and His church. Born in a small village in Somerset, her early years were marked by hardships, including vivid memories of German bombers lighting up the sky and the resilience of her family living on the outskirts of Bath without running water or modern amenities.
This early perseverance set the tone for her life's work. One of her earlier roles before joining the North England Conference as a Bible Worker was as a nursery teacher, which highlighted her natural ability to engage with children, a gift she would carry throughout her ministry. Her younger brother, who had Down syndrome, helped her develop the skills and patience to work with children with special needs, a calling she embraced wholeheartedly.
Graduating from Newbold College as a part-time Bible Worker, Olwen’s first placement in a bustling industrial city in 1961 demonstrated immense courage and determination. In the same year, she married John, whom she met while being assigned to Camp Hill Seventh-day Adventist Church, where he was one of the founding members. Together they settled there, the church where she devoted the rest of her working life. Olwen became a full-time Bible Worker in 1984, serving the Camp Hill, Handsworth, West Bromwich, Ladywood, Redditch, and Kingstanding churches throughout her career.
Olwen was a dedicated daughter, wife, mother to two children, aunt, and grandmother, fondly remembered for her unwavering support and love. She served as a church organist for around 50 years, often accompanying soloists and choirs, and contributing her own voice to many services.
Her pastoral work was extensive and heartfelt. Affectionately known as “Sister Mac,” Olwen was a constant in the ministerial team at Camp Hill, providing support, trust, and encouragement to the many pastors who served there and the wider church family. She regularly visited church members, particularly the sick and lonely, and organised various church programs. Her dedication also extended to collecting for ADRA and ensuring the smooth running of Aberdaron Advent Campsite in its early days, even working in the kitchen. She encouraged people who were seeking better ways of living through health by offering practical advice and cooking demonstrations.
Blessed with a creative mind, Olwen was known for her beautiful decorations for special occasions and her thoughtful, engaging sermons that resonated with both children and adults. She ran out-of-school clubs, supported Sabbath schools, and was an active master guide and pathfinder, helping young people, especially those with special needs, reach their full potential. Even after her retirement, Olwen stayed active in church life and continued to serve as an elder until 2008, later moving to the Tamworth Seventh-day Adventist Church, where she lived out the rest of her life.
Olwen Iris McIntyre’s life was a testament to her faith and dedication to serving the Lord. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and the countless lives she touched through her ministry. She now rests, awaiting the call of the Lord she served so faithfully.
