Colin Smith, the longstanding Editor of the Catholic Standard newspaper, passed away yesterday after being hospitalised for a brief period.

His death was announced by the Guyana Press Association, which last night said it was “profoundly saddened by the passing of our Dear Brother, Colin Smith.”

The GPA said Smith, referred to as ‘Uncle Colin’ or ‘Smithy’, served with distinction at the helm of the Catholic Standard newspaper and in the Caribbean when he was a part of the now defunct BBC Caribbean Service.

“Mr. Smith was always well-mannered and respectful to his colleagues and across Guyana’s political divide. He also brought with him to the profession a quality of acquiring the best answers,” the GPA said.

Smith worked not only in print but also in broadcast media throughout his career as he hosted the weekly Catholic Broadcast.

The GPA last night said when the media landscape evolved technologically, Smith did not hesitate to be part of that transformation in which virtually all media are digital and online.

“Hidden and not well-known was Colin’s training in the maintenance and repair of electronic equipment which

made him one of the very few rounded and versatile media professionals,” the GPA said.

Meanwhile, President of GPA, Nazima Raghubir in remembrance of Smith on her Facebook Page said his contribution to journalism should not be forgotten.

“Colin Smith was the person who had described the killings of 2002s thereabouts as ‘phantom killings.’ During a post cabinet press briefing, Colin asked then Cabinet Secretary Dr Roger Luncheon, how he would explain the “phantom killings,” that were happening,” she said before explaining “Many folks had assumed it was Luncheon who gave the killings that title.”

Indigenous rights activist Immaculata Casimero, in a tribute, said Smith was such a humble soul. “He assisted me many times whilst I was attending school in Georgetown. He used to say, “Here’s a pocket piece Imma, to buy something that you really need.” He was a good friend of my father’s. RIP Uncle Colin,” she stated in comments.

Many others familiar with his work and dedication to the media profession also shared messages of condolence as they reflected on the life of Smith.