Dear Fareeda, I was so sorry not to have been able to come to the funeral or even see it livestreamed. It was a privelege to serve with you and Bryan on the Red Sea Mission Team Council, and then the ReachAcross Board of Trustees. Bryan was a real encouragement to me when I was Charman, and then when I became the full-time UK Representative. When he said that he was praying for me, it meant so much. I wish I had got to know him better, because he was clearly a great servant of the Lord. Jane and I pray that the Lord will continue to comfort you.
Warmly in the Lord Jesus,
Steven & Jane (still in Leicester, retired, but still serving where I can)
A day or two before the funeral I was reading 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and it struck me how much the passage described Bryan. I first met him and Faride in 1985 but was only in Birmingham for a few months more before moving. However he kept in regular contact with me all over the years as I got married, went with J Nam as missionaries to Japan and then reached out to Japanese in Cambridge. My main memories of Bryan are (1) humility: he was always interested in our lives, asking for our prayer news and saying little about himself, despite his many gifts in Bible teaching, medicine, languages and music. He was kind, gentle and gracious to everyone. He also had a part in us coming together in marriage! (2) hospitality: his home was always open and I noticed that many others visited and stayed there. He and Faride always extended us a warm welcome the many times we stayed with them in Birmingham. Our daughter, Angela, also has good memories of visiting them. (3) heart for God and the world: he was a man of prayer and was always seeking, in one way or another, the advance of the gospel. Although his main focus was not the Far East we were impressed by and greatly appreciated his genuine interest in our work among the Japanese people. By God's grace we aim to follow his example as a man of God.
We will certainly miss Bryan and pray that his family may experience God's comfort at this time but we also thank the Lord for his life and rejoice with many others that he is now forever with his Saviour in our home in Heaven!
Roger and J Nam Stevens
Dear Mary, We learnt of your father’s passing this week from Elle and I thought of the last time that we met at your home in Chiswick with you and Aimee and if my recollections are correct, Paul too but briefly. I thought about how you will be feeling now and in the months and years ahead as you reflect on him and your life and times together. As John and I read his profile we learnt about his love of God and how he expressed this in serving in difficult places and then at home, but always committed to God. You are blessed to have had him as your father and you must be proud of his life and quietly rejoicing that he is now in safe hands. God’s blessings on you at this time especially.
Love
Sue and John Dearin
Less than ten years ago, in his early eighties, Bryan kindly gave us quite a few hours of his time to introduce us to the basics of Urdu and living in Pakistan (while Faride fed us tea and biscuits). These times proved invaluable when we spent a couple of years working there. Years later Bryan still remembered our family and enquired after them. A gentleman with a servant heart.
John and Zoe Williamson
Uncle Bryan was such an encouragement to me in prayer and sharing the Gospel. I loved reading his Christmas letters! I haven't seen him for many, many years but have such fond memories of him, a quiet, gentle, loving man of God. I remember Sunday night pancakes as a child, piano playing and visits to the country. I look forward to being reunited in heaven one day. I'm praying for you Auntie Fareeda, William, and Mary and family as you grieve.
With much love,
Suzanne Wiersema (Illinois, USA)
We found Dr Bryan Drever to be a diligent, zealous and humble pastor and leader of the elders at KHEC. Apart from preaching each Sunday from the word of God which we found to be full of foundational truths, Bryan would visit our family (as he did every household we understand) to find out how we were getting on and to pray with us. We had Meghan as a baby in 1987 when we came to KHEC and Faith arrived in 1990. Our girls benefitted from the Mum and Toddlers, Sunday School and holiday clubs as we grew spiritually under the preaching of Bryan. We enjoyed and appreciated corresponding with Bryan and Fareede each year, most recently at Christmas 2022. God bless good and faithful servant.
Mark and Karen Limbrick, Meghan and Faith 1987 - 1993
Bryan Drever was a man of excellent and impeccable character. A leader amongst men here on earth. Who he was, and the example he left behind, is remarkable. If there were more men like Bryan Drever, this world would be a far better place for all. His call to duty, and his extreme discipline in helping his fellow man, teaching people about his Saviour and Lord Jesus Christ, was most remarkable. We are really privileged to have known Bryan and his wife Fareeda, who was exactly the same in purpose, and life's efforts to serve humanity, and further the good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ. I myself have see heaven, in March, 1981 when my own husband passed on to be on the other side, I know what a place heaven is, of extreme joy, and extreme peace, such as it not explainable in human terms. One can only rejoice with Bryan, that he is in this heavenly place, and enjoying the fruits, and sights of heaven, as tis truly stated in That old hymn, ear hath not heard, and eye hath not seen, what God has prepared for those who love him.
Elizabeth Georgina Holley
Thinking of you Fareeda and children and grandchildren. I got to know you and Bryan at the ReachAcross monthly Friday prayer meeting. I was always grateful for your welcome, faithful prayers, email messages and piano playing. Bless you as you reflect and remember and grieve.
Hannah Satterthwaite
Bryan was a man that both Peter and myself deeply respected and held in great esteem . He was a real blessing to both of us and a great encourager in the work of the Gospel. It was our joy to work with him and Fareeda in the outreach in Birmingham for a good number of years. Lovely to see all the photos on the video.
Elizabeth Hayes
We hold many treasured memories of Bryan (and of course Fareeda) across many years. We first met in 1993 when we were assigned to KHEC whilst at BBI. Both Bryan and Fareeda were instrumental in our training to serve the Lord and it brings back many happy memories of those days. We have been to their home many times on invitations to lunch and Bryan, as well as other friends in KHEC has continually kept in touch with us by phone and email and knowing him has been a privilege. We shall miss Bryan very much but we know that he is now with our beloved Saviour and we pray the Lord will comfort them at this sad time. Our sincere condolences to Fareeda and all the family.
Alan & Pauline Ashmore
I count it a privilege to have known Bryan, mainly through prayer meetings for the Middle East. What an inspirational man who cheerily served the Lord with such enthusiasm, diligence and faith. My last visit to Kingsway a few months ago when Bryan and Faride were no longer able to attend, was a tribute to their ongoing prayers for that congregation. I visited them briefly afterwards to encourage them by what I had witnessed in the service. May the Lord comfort Faride and provide for her needs at this sad time.
Brigid Bourne
Bryan was a totally amazing Christian, faithful to the end. He was a great friend and brother-in-law. He is sorely missed. Our prayers are with our wonderful (Jeanette's) sister Faride, Mary, William and the family.
Nigel and Jeanette Wilkinson in Peoria, Illinois , USA.
This is really a sad moment for me and family in Pakistan as they were regularly received updates. Since December last year when my mother died, He really shared his sadness and prayed with me. He worked with her when he was in Pakistan, serving as Doctor in Mission Hospital Jalal Pur Jattan. He has been a faithful prayer support and i can feel the loss of a regular prayer partner. He advised me, Supported me in my life challenges and was always there to help me. Him gathering people to pray for ministries and supporting has caused many to come to faith and follow Christ. I dont have many words to say, but I feel that i have lost a close family. Will Miss him greatly.
Cicel Benjamin
Hebrews 11; 26 ' ... esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt; for he looked to the reward.' We came to Helensburgh in 1985, long after Bryan had moved on. However, the prayer updates were often used at a midweek 'missionary prayer meeting' and we also met Bryan & Faride on their annual pilgrimages to Helensburgh. Such a selfless, humble and Christlike couple who could otherwise have wasted their lives on comforts but rather invested their lives in service for Christ and blessing of others. The reward is now ready for Bryan. 'In Christ ... For Christ ... now With Christ' (Far better!)
Jim & Violet McLatchie
Dear Faride and family.--we were very saddened to hear of the loss of your beloved husband and father. He will be missed in so many ways. Not long after moving to the UK and Birmingham in 1995, we were introduced to Bryan and Faride. And from the beginning, we were struck by their committment to the Lord, to the church (Kings Heath EC, Ladypool Rd, and the wider body), to prayer, and to outreach (abroad in the past, as well as locally). I (John) personally learned a lot about evangelism when accompanying each of them individually on the doors, and marvelled at Bryan’s methodical record keeping! They were both always ready to share their home with hospitality and their language skills with numerous others. Most of all, we appreciated Bryan’s faithfulness, humility, gentleness and care for others--Christlike qualities. And now he is with the Saviour whom he loved.
With our love and prayers,
John and Irene Johnson (now in Nottingham)
Madam Fareeda and family kindly accept condolance from us all. Dr Bryan is like a FATHER for me and my family. He has done alot for us all which we cant repay . But now he is with the HEAVENLY FATHER in HEAVEN . He will be missed always. He was kind and helpfull gentleman . He knew the problems of people and is always there to help. He was godly PERSON.
ASIM SHABBIR
Dear Faride , William and Mary, This is such a sad time for you , yet a thankful time for having such a gracious husband, father and friend. I loved Brian's quiet manner and sense of humour. One experience always stands out for me when in Radda Yemen, I had the privilege of watching him perform cataract surgery. I remember especially the way he gently prayed with his patient in arabic before the procedure. Loved his sermons, and took on board some wise counsel he gave me. Thank you Lord for thr gift of knowing one of your saints.
Helen D' Souza
Such a lovely gracious man. I met him at the ReachAcross (Red Sea as was) prayer meeting. As he was a quiet man, I didn’t expect anything when he was asked to preach. How wrong I was. I was so blessed and always looked forward to him giving the devotional in the prayer meeting. As per Bunyan the bells of heaven will have been ringing. Home forever
Vivienne Miller
We remember Dr. Drever's kindness and willingness to provide medical care, "All you had to do was ask." Our thoughts and prayers for comfort are with your family in your loss. With love, the Innigers.
Laura and Gloria Inniger
Dearest Mary, William and Faride and family, I have such fond memories of your dad/ husband, particularly the times when I had the chance to stay at your home in Birmingham when I was in my late teens. Dr Drever was never very talkative, but I felt he was completely present and enjoyed hearing us talking and laughing together. I admired his stillness. I also enjoyed witnessing the deep love between your parents, Mary and William, how very sweet, kind and caring they were to each other. Marcus and I are sending so so much love to all of you in this difficult period. He’s looking down at you with love and he is in a good place (the best place!!)
Yasmin Nibbe and Marcus Hogle
In our SpiritCare service for older adults in a care community in South San Francisco, Rev Dr Tom Nibbe reminded us of the amazing ministry of Bryan Drever in Pakistan and his global influence.
Angela Hey
Dear, Fareeda, William and Mary, You are in our thoughts and prayers. Please accept our condolences 💐. Bryan was indeed a wonderful man of God. We remember him from Jalalpur and then from Birmingham both Freda and Bryan have been visiting us almost every year in Scotland 🏴 before their health was seriously affected and gradually deteriorated Kindest Regards,
Rev Peter Gill and Family
Dear Farida, William and Mary Our condolences to you all. We have heard of your beloved husband and father passing away and can't imagine how sad this must be for you, his loved ones, to be separated for the time being. May God himself comfort you and help you through this time of loss. We have fond memories (going back to the early nineties) of all four of you, you precious family. And especially fond memories of pastor Drever, serving all the members and visitors at Highbury Church. He and you Fareda have been such a blessing and model to us regarding your love for the Lord and all the people around you, your joy and humour. We can still picture pastor Drever playing his little accordeon and singing in the congregation. We thank the Lord for you all and especially at this time fondly remember God's faithful servant pastor Drever.
Manfred and Maja Nufer
We will always remember living in O'Spring by the Drever family. Dr. Drever was a talented colleague with a humble spirit and steadfast faith. We were so impressed with his keen focus to excel at language learning. As I recall, he always carried flash cards. I am sure this man of God kept this style of dedication until He was called Home. Msy God bless and keep his family and all who will miss this brother in Christ.
Herb and Alice Ellis
Dear Fareeda, William and Mary, I have know Bryan for many, many years since the children were very small and their parents serving in Yemen (as I was too). He was one of the most godly men that I know and caring of individual souls. Just recently he has been the link with Shabir and Zeinab and I do hope that someone else is now taking care of them and can funnel news and prayer needs to us. Bryan was a faithful pray-er and it was so sad to see his strength and health failing in the last few months. His concern for Fareeda was amazing and beautiful to see and I am so thankful that he is now at peace and with the Lord he loved. There must have been a massive party to welcome him home. That leaves you all missing him enormously, I do trust you are strengthened and comforted by our prayers and that you are conscious of the loving arms of our Saviour around you. May God bless you all.
love Anitra Lockwood
Dear Fareeda and family We are very sorry to hear of the loss of your dear Bryan, but rejoice that he is now in heaven with his Lord and Saviour, whom he loved and served so faithfully for so long. We got to know him and Fareeda well in our days at Ladypool Road Congregational Church, and have kept in touch for 30 years. His gentleness, sincerity and faithful prayer life, as well as his evangelistic zeal and perseverance shone through. Margaret was part of the team that did outreach with Bryan from Ladypool Road, and was blessed and encouraged by his support and example. When we moved away as a family, he continued to keep in touch with us by phone or email, asking for prayer needs and giving us his news of his family, and asking us to pray for them. This we do now at this time of sadness for you all. May you know God's comfort and enabling.
David and Margaret Sales
What a wonderful man of God. He was faithful indeed to our whole family. We were members of KHEC in the late 80s and he has never stopped praying for us and our ministry since, taking a deep interest in our service and our growing family. We rejoice that he is in Heaven but we are so sad that he has gone from the world. Our prayers are with the family
Andy and Kath Harrison
Dear Faride and Family, my heartfelt condolences to you on the home-calling of Brian. I had the privilege to meet you and Brian in 1995 and 1996 when I was on the candidates course for RSMT. I remember very well meeting you two. The impression of your Spirit filled Love and dedication first to the Lord and to all people around you two was very strong. Your sacrificial service to Jesus and His message has remained with me since as an example to follow. May you feel the Lord`s comforting arms around you and His joyful celebration over both of your lives. Blessings and prayers,
Ulrike Beck
We were so sorry to hear of Bryan's Home-going! We are very sad for the family and the loss of this Man of God. We have wonderful memories of Bryan & Farida -- their thoughtfulness, kindness, hospitality & generosity! We valued Bryan's wisdom and enjoyed Farida's spontaneity. :-) We expect to be in Birmingham end of August, and planned to visit them during our time in the city. Instead, I love to imagine the welcome Bryan received in Heaven! He will so enjoy meeting his Savior and being with Christ - in a new strong body. What wonderful joy and gladness for him! May you, his children & family, know God's comfort and presence at this time.
Laurence & Peggy Epp (now in Calgary, Canada)
It was always encouraging to have a short stay with Bryan and Fareeda when I went from Pakistan to Birmingham for the annual meetings of the mission. May you, Fareeda, and your family and friends know the comfort of your Lord and Saviour as you mourn the loss of Bryan.
Ian (and Dorcas), Australia.
June and Alan were blessed by receiving Brian and Farida's newsletter. Brian also prayed for our family regularly for which we were so thankful. We also enjoyed our fellowship with Brian and Farida when they visited Helensburgh. Phillipians Ch. 1v3
Alan and June Biggs
