MATTHEWS, Rev Alan James Stevens (1926-2023)

Modified on Fri, 26 Jul 2024 13:12 by Caroline Stok — Categorized as: Biography - All, Biography - Students, Geelong College

MATTHEWS, Rev Alan James Stevens (1926-2023)

Alan boarded at the College from 1941-1943, following his brother Jack who had attended from 1938-1940. Jack was killed in action in New Guinea, May 1945. Both had previously attended Rishworth Higher Elementary School prior to College.

A member of Calvert House, Alan was involved in athletics and rowing. In 1941 he was part of the winning Junior Fours crew at the Annual School Regatta (alongside D Macmillan, M Alexander, D Philp and P Eaton). In 1943 he received house rowing colours and reached the rank of sergeant in the cadets.

Alan would go on to study theology, working in parish ministries in Victoria, United Kingdom, Northern Territory and finally settling in Western Australia in the 1970s. He was married to Betty, who became the first Deacon to be accredited in the Uniting Church in 1992. They have two children.

After retiring, Alan continued to be involved local church activities, as well as refugee support and Aboriginal reconciliation. He also credited George Logie Smith as nurturing a love of music, and sang in a number of choirs.

Alan passed away 10 September 2023, aged 96 years.

Sources: The Age 16 September 2023, Pegasus, Ad Astra, OGC 1938.