Smith, Thomas (1513-12-23 - 1577-08-12)

Thomas Smith was born on 23 December 1513. He was the son of John Smith, Sheriff of Hertfordshire. Smith matriculated at Queens' College, Cambridge in 1526, graduating B.A. in 1530 and proceeding M.A. in 1533. He held a fellowship at the College from 1530 until 1547. Smith was Public Orator from 1538 until 1542. He became Regius Professor of Civil Law in 1540; two years later, he was awarded the degrees of LL.D. and D.C.L. Smith's career continued to flourish upon his appointment as Secretary of State in April 1548 and his knighthood in the same year. As a diplomat, he frequently served in embassies abroad. Smith died on 12 August 1577 and was buried at the church of St Michael's, Theydon Mount. Smith himself designed the tomb, and Andrew Perne preached his funeral sermon.