The late Revd Wyndham Rees died after a long illness, courageously borne, at his home in Ammanford. His funeral was held on Saturday, 10 August, 2013 and a large crowd which included family and friends gathered at the nearby Pisgah Baptist Chapel, to honour his memory and to bid their fond farewells. He leaves a devoted wife, Margaret and a loving son, Eirian.

The large gathering was a testimony to the warmth and respect in which he was held among his colleagues in ministry and within the surrounding community.

Wyndham spent his early years at Cwmrhydyceirw near Morriston in the Swansea Valley the only child of Trevor and Katie Rees; his father was a local shop keeper. The home was situated next door to the Tabernacle chapel and it was there that Wyndham first nurtured his skills within the context of the Sunday school and chapel life. The family then moved to Brynderw, Rhydypandy and settled at Salem Baptist church, Llangyfelach under the ministry of the late Idwal Wyn Owen.

It was here that Wyndham was baptised on the profession of his faith in the Lord Jesus and commended by the church to train for ministry at Cardiff Baptist College in 1951. Three years later he was ordained and inducted at Ainon, Pontrhydycyff and Calfaria Cwmfelin near Maesteg. It was during his time at Ainon that he met Margaret whose family were faithful members at the church. They fell in love and were married at Bethania, Maesteg on the 23rd June, 1956 and shortly afterwards, Wyndham received a call to Bethania, Blaengarw and Sardis, Bettws where he and Margaret spent 8 happy years of ministry.

In 1964 Wyndham received a call to Pisgah Penybanc and Salem Llandybie and in 1984 the church at Bethesda, Tycroes joined the pastorate.
Wyndham had a kind and gentle disposition, a commanding pulpit voice and an incredible memory; he served the churches of his charge with commitment and zeal. The birth of their son Eirian brought great joy and contentment to the home and Wyndham and Margaret were proud and devoted parents.

Psalm 116:15 seems to sum up Wyndham’s life: “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints...” for he truly was one of those saints. We remember his life and ministry with thanksgiving and value his friendship and the privilege of knowing him. We extend our sympathy to Margaret and Eirian in their loss and sorrow.  

J.T.J.