Memories of Brother Gumbs

N – Now that your life’s journey has come to an end,

O – Our hearts are filled with mixed emotions
Regrets, happiness, sadness, and joy

R – Regrets of not speaking to you as often as we use to, happiness that you are in a better place free from sorry and pain. Sadness that you are no longer here to tease about coffee and so much more. Joy that you died in the Lord and will be with our maker forever.

I – I reflect on my early days, I always wanted to be the first to wish you happy birthday. Waiting up until midnight. That special love you had for our family. You loved my grand mother, Mama Fan, dearly, and she loved you too. You not only prayed for but prayed with my family. Always ending a telephone conversation with a prayer.

L – Lately, as the years progressed, it became an early morning call. Sadly, this year, I was unable to reach or speak to you on your birthday.

G – God has blessed you with so many qualities. A heart full of love. Your powerful messages you preached. Your laughter, oh, that big belly full of laughter. You were a genuine person who loved and cared for all. Not just your family and your congregation. You gave and you gave.

U – Under trying circumstances, like after hurricane Hugo, volcanic eruptions, you set things in motion through your connections, and many across the island benefited. You continued even after you relocated.

M – Ministry was you. Not only in the church, but in the caring and nurturing life you lived.

B – Bible school. Yes, vacation Bible school. Many of us will continue to reflect. Children from all over Montserrat from every religion came summer after summer. Even those who didn’t attend any form of church. Parents knew their children were safe and well looked after.

S – Service above self was you, Brother Gumbs. We love and appreciate all that you did. Continue to rest in peace and that you will rise in glory on that great day when all the saints go marching in.

Condolences to Sister Gumbs and the rest of the family.

Best wishes
Alarice C. Fenton
MONTSERRAT