On January 2, 2024, the Southern Asia-Pacific Division of the Seventh-day Adventist Church received disheartening news about the passing of Mrs. Heather Dawn-Small, a revered leader and Women’s Ministries Director at the General Conference. She died at the age of 66. Mrs. Heather Dawn-Small's departure has left a significant void in the hearts of the Seventh-day Adventist community across the region. Her unwavering faith and profound impact on the lives she touched will be greatly remembered.
Mrs. Small's commitment to the Seventh-day Adventist Church manifested through her distinguished 18-year tenure as the General Conference Women’s Ministries Director, a position she not only held but was re-elected to in 2022. Pastor Roger Caderma, the president of the Southern Asia-Pacific Division, joins the global church in expressing heartfelt condolences to the Small family, recognizing and honoring Mrs. Small’s tireless service and devotion to ministry.
“We are extremely saddened by the loss of a truly exceptional leader,” says Pastor Caderma. “Mrs. Small's life has left a lasting impact on the hearts of all women in the Southern Asia-Pacific region. Her legacy, forged through years of dedicated service, will forever be etched in the collective memory of those fortunate enough to have known her. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Small family during this challenging time. May the comforting presence of the Holy Spirit envelop them, providing solace, and may the promise of God’s imminent return be a source of strength and hope as we anticipate the glorious and blessed day ahead."
Mrs. Small's impact in the Southern Asia-Pacific region is deeply felt. Her passion for empowering women resonated with Mrs. Virgie Baloyo, the Women's Ministry Director of the Southern Asia-Pacific Division. Mrs. Baloyo expressed her profound sadness, describing Mrs. Small as an inspiration to women in the region. Mrs. Small actively participated in various women's initiatives, forging connections with female leaders and encouraging them to utilize their God-given skills and talents to share the gospel message with the world.
“For almost two decades, she was our visionary, creative, and dynamic spiritual leader. Truth, beauty, and Christ-centered. Her inspirational talks and the resources on the Women’s Ministry website reflect these marks. She carefully improved the works of her predecessors. Her leadership is motherly and sisterly, calling those around her "darling.". Heather Dawn Small was always empowering, inspiring, and mentoring to bring forth a better generation of women leaders and disciples. Joy was her byword; her mantra was, “Don’t let anyone steal your joy.” Behind the radiant smile was a lifetime of overcoming her own physical and emotional battles. She will now rest easy in Jesus,” Baloyo shared.
“Mrs. Small was “big” in many ways. In faith, leadership, and ideas. Clearly, she will be sorely and deeply missed,” she added.
Mrs. Small's legacy in the Southern Asia-Pacific Division extends beyond her capacity; she was a beacon of strength and encouragement for women seeking to make a meaningful impact within the Adventist community. Her passion for community engagement, coupled with her focus on evangelism, has left an indelible mark on the region, reminding us of the transformative power of faith and dedication.
Edward Rodriguez, SSD Communication Department