By Hon. E.P. Chet Greene, Parliamentary Representative, St. Paul’s
The Epitome of Humility, Integrity, and Exemplary Christianity
As we gather to celebrate the life and legacy of Mrs. Daisiana George, we reflect on a remarkable woman who embodied humility, integrity and the true spirit of Christianity. From childhood, I was blessed to know Sister George, growing up within the embrace of the SDA church. My earliest memories of her are of a slow-walking, erect, pleasant woman; bespectacled and graceful as she traversed the paths to and from church. She personified grace and confidence, making a profound impression on everyone she met. I also recall her as an employee at the Deeth Hotel in English Harbour. That bit is quite easy to remember because she worked alongside my mother.
I struggle to recall the first time I ever heard her speak, but her melodious singing, that alto voice, always on point, resonated in my heart from an early age.
In the 1970s and 1980s, growing up in this community instilled in me a deep respect for her, knowing that she, like other adults then, held a parental-like authority. Sister D was more than just a villager; she was a guardian of our community’s values, always having our best interests at heart.
As a child, I was fortunate enough to be recognized for my talents and budding leadership aspirations and Sister D, with her nurturing spirit, took a keen interest in my development. For all her kind words and deeds, I express my heartfelt gratitude.
Fast forward to my adulthood and I’ve gained a clearer understanding and appreciation for her towering presence in our community. Her silent observance revealed itself to be filled with deep care and I also learned that she had been holding me up in prayer all along, making inquiries about my well-being even for a period of absence from church.
Once in church, her welcoming smile, warm embrace and gentle voice urging me to pray and trust God was a weekly staple. Sister George, though your physical presence has departed, I stand before this gathering of your family, friends and sympathizers and reaffirm my promise to you that I will always trust God Almighty to direct my path.
The realization that I can no longer drop in to say hello or share gifts on Mother’s Day or Christmas is a poignant reminder of our mortality.
You lived a long, rich and faithful life and as we say goodbye, we take comfort in God’s promise of eternal life for those who die in the Lord:
“Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on. Yes, says the Spirit, they will rest from their labor, for their deeds will follow them.” (Revelation 14:13)
These verses remind us of the faith we share and the hope we cling to, especially in times of loss. To your family I say; Sister George, you have touched countless lives and your legacy will continue to inspire and guide us. As we celebrate your rich and purposeful journey, we carry forward your spirit of humility, kindness and unwavering faith.
The following poem encapsulates my cherished memories of you:
“A Life Well Lived”
A life well lived is never lost
Its echoes linger in the hearts it crossed
With gentle hands and loving grace
You touched our lives, each sacred space
Through trials faced and mountains climbed
Your faith shone bright steadfast and sublime
In every word, in every song,
You taught us love, where we belong
Your laughter sweet, your wisdom deep
In quiet prayers, your soul would keep
A beacon bright in the darkest night
You led us on with your gentle light
Now as you rest, your journey’s complete
We cherish the memories, the love so sweet
In every kind deed, in every smile
Your spirit lives on, our hearts reconciled
So sleep on, dear sister D, ‘neath heaven’s embrace
Your legacy of love time cannot erase
In Christ’s eternal arms, you’ve found your home
Forever in our hearts, you’ll never be alone.
As we eulogize and pay tribute to Mrs. Daisiana George, let us strive to emulate her humility, integrity and unwavering faith; borrowing from those positive values she instilled in us. May her memory be a blessing and may we continue to honor her life by living out the principles she exemplified.
