DEC 11, 1966 - JUNE 28, 2023
A Celebration of Life
SATURDAY, JULY 15, 2023
10:30 AM
OFFICIATING MINISTER
REVEREND NORBERT STEPHENS
MR. KEVIN BAILEY ORGANIST
MR. AUDLEY DAVIDSON
SOLOISTS
DWIGHT RICHARDS
MIGUEL THOMAS
Who would have dreamt that we would be here today at a Thanksgiving service for Junior. Certainly not me and I am sure many of you didn’t see this day coming so soon.
We met over 40 years ago at what he would say was the ‘only school,’ Wolmers. It was in sixth form when the boys and girls school was integrated. Being early birds, Junior and I started spending our mornings together, chatting about everything and anything random. We developed a close friendship which only strengthened over time and eventually turned into a beautiful relationship spanning over 30 years. Junior claims that he always knew I would be his wife but like anything else as he would say it was all about the ‘planning, timing and execution!’ He is the only person whom I have spent hours with on the telephone outside of a meeting setting.
Junior loved music from all genres and appreciated the wisdom of songwriters like Bob Marley before many did. One thing that stands out about him is the many deep statements that he would reflect on and adopt and share with his family and friends. We tried to capture some of these in the pages of the guest book as they were guiding philosophies of his life.
My husband was a man who believed that all individuals were created equally, and the only thing that separated us was the access that we were born into and the opportunities created for us in life. He believed in leading by example and did this in the everyday interactions with his children and those around him.
"YesIndeed!"
He was not a quitter, it was important to him that he finished any task. Many of our leisurely days were spent driving, whether out of town for family trips or in Kingston visiting new construction sites; Junior would say we going to spend some time assessing ‘how am I living.’
Junior was a lover of nature. He loved birds especially. He could spot a treasure in a piece of driftwood a mile away and immediately think of how it could be placed to decorate or beautify. He saw beyond all the faults and what some would see as scrap he could see in it new life and possibility.
Junior was social. He had several groups of friends who were all very special to him. His relationships spanned from his school days to his current work connections. Fridays were his night out as this is when he would connect with ‘his people.’ He was always game for an adventure and to learn new things. The onset of Covid 19 prompted us to start annual vacations with friends and last year we took on the challenge to catch up with the new dance moves and make a Tik Tok. He was the only taker but of course they have not yet finished the Tik Tok.
My husband was Uncle Junior to many as he spent the time getting to know Kristoff and Alexandria’s friends. He listened to them from a non-judgmental place and was always fun to be around.
I will miss my partner. On the weekends he would never say, what do ‘ you ’ have to do, he would always say, what do ‘ we ’ have to do. With all my love...
Orleen
The more you are thankful, the more you attract things to be thankful for.
ALEXANDRIA BATSON
1st HYMN
All Things Bright and Beautiful
Refrain:
All things bright and beautiful, All creatures great and small, All things wise and wonderful: The Lord God made them all.
Each little flow’r that opens, Each little bird that sings, He made their glowing colors, He made their tiny wings.
Rev. Norbert Stephens
Alexandria Batson with the urn
Orleen Batson and Kristoff Batson
With love Daddy, your Princess
1st Scripture Reading
Ecclesiastes 3: 1-13
The purple-headed mountains, The river running by, The sunset and the morning That brightens up the sky.
The cold wind in the winter, The pleasant summer sun, The ripe fruits in the garden, He made them every one.
The tall trees in the greenwood, The meadows where we play, The rushes by the water, To gather every day.
He gave us eyes to see them, And lips that we might tell How great is God Almighty, Who has made all things well.
Michelle Carter
WINTYBATSON
FATHER COLINBISPOTT
BROTHER
NEVILLE(CRAIG)KNOWLES
FRIEND
DWIGHTRICHARDS
KARENPHILLIPS
FRIEND
MICHAELFRANCIS
FRIEND
SUZETTEWHYTE
SISTER IN LAW
MIGUELTHOMAS
PATRICKHUNTER
FRIEND
DONELMILLER
FRIEND
TSPECTRUMMANAGEMENTAUTHORITY
‘My Son in whom I am well pleased’
SIR 'B'
‘My BIG, Little Brother’
From way back when, my friend’
Musical Selection - Moon River
Mr. ‘B’
My Bredren, My Brother
Our Brother-in-law
Solo: The Holy City
Henry, my Friend
Friendships and the Working Journey
And can it be that I should gain
An int’rest in the Savior’s blood?
Died He for me, who caused His pain?
For me, who Him to death pursued?
Amazing love! how can it be
That Thou, my God, shouldst die for me?
Amazing love! how can it be
That Thou, my God, shouldst die for me?
He left His Father’s throne above, So free, so infinite His grace; Emptied Himself of all but love, And bled for Adam’s helpless race:
’Tis mercy all, immense and free; For, O my God, it found out me.
’Tis mercy all, immense and free; For, O my God, it found out me.
Long my imprisoned spirit lay Fast bound in sin and nature’s night;
Thine eye diffused a quickening ray, I woke, the dungeon flamed with light;
My chains fell off, my heart was free, I rose, went forth, and followed Thee.
My chains fell off, my heart was free, I rose, went forth, and followed Thee.
No condemnation now I dread; Jesus, and all in Him, is mine! Alive in Him, my living Head, And clothed in righteousness Divine, Bold I approach the eternal throne, And claim the crown, through Christ my own. Bold I approach the eternal throne, And claim the crown, through Christ my own.
Tis mystery all! The Immortal dies!
Who can explore His strange design?
In vain the firstborn seraph tries
To sound the depths of love Divine!
’Tis mercy all! let earth adore, Let angel minds inquire no more.
’Tis mercy all! let earth adore, Let angel minds inquire no more.
He has been a friend of mine for all these years. Through laughter, worry, toil and tears. We met in High School at Wolmer’s as friends and blossomed into a family. As youngsters we spent many weekends on the seashore in Copa Cabana where he resided at the time.
As we matured into adulthood, we kept our friendship and when we started our own families, we became each other’s families.
Anyone who knew Junior knew how positive and encouraging he always was, always beaming with his radiant smile. You would never communicate with him, and not receive a positive response. His mantra;
“Working with Life and Giving Thanks”. Even in the hospital during his pain, his response to the doctors and nurses would be so positive, you’d not believe he was in pain unless he told you.
Junior, I will miss your friendship, your captivating smile, your kindness, and amazing sense of humor. I will never forget the days we spent making family plans and exchanging thoughts. While Alexandria attended school in New York, I will never forget the days you came to visit her and refused to return home until we spent some time together; even if it meant that I had to cancel my engagements to make it happen.
My heart aches. Losing a family member is a different kind of pain. Getting the news of Junior’s passing hit me real hard, as I had just been with him a few days prior. He had been in our prayers from the day his diagnosis was made known.
Though we knew the challenges of this dreaded disease, the signs were so encouraging. I communicated with his wife Orleen, while other mutual friends communicated directly with him and told me he was very upbeat and we were all encouraged at the fact that he would be travelling overseas to narrow down the source of the tumor, so he could start treatment. When he came to America, I made plans to visit and spend time with him and I am very happy that I did. There are so many fond memories that warm my heart.
A limb has fallen from the family tree. I keep hearing a voice that says, “Grieve not for me. ” Remember the best times, the laughter, the songs, the good life he lived while he was strong.
Family and friends let’s continue his heritage; he’s counting on us. Keep smiling and surely the sun will shine through.
Michael 'Frano' FrancisA gentle giant. Quiet, soft spoken, assertive are some of the words that I would use to describe my very colourful friend, HENRY BATSON. It is funny that I have to think hard sometimes to remember his first name as for me he was always just Batson. If one should ask how long I have known him, I am sure it has been for over 30 years. During this time, he became my friend, my confidante, my advisor and non-judgemental counsellor. This is the man who would literally show up at the times when I needed him most, when my mind was heavy with challenges. He would sit with me with his Guinness and chat for hours, solving my challenges and quietly clearing the confusion.
And now, my brother, you have left me with a sister and two more children, Orleen, Kristoff and Alexandria. They are now in my care. Thanks for all that you have done for me, It is nothing but love… FOREVER
Hubert Kerr
It is with heavy hearts that we pay tribute to my dear friend Henry Batson who left us too soon. We shared a bond forged by similar interests in aviation from college days. As life played out he became a top-rated professional in another field while I stayed in aviation. He played a significant role in my life as a friend and was a groomsman at my wedding. Today we gather to celebrate the impact he had on all of us.
Since we met as freshmen in college, we remained in touch and always exchanged words of encouragement while the ups and downs of life, health and family happened. Henry was great friend and so enthusiastic about life. I would share with him news about job changes and significant events in life such as relocations.
Though we chose different careers paths our friendship remained strong throughout all these years. He always had wise words to share with his genuine smile. Many times the conversations on different topics such as finance, politics, sport and career were shared on weekend walks at Police Officer's Club and then later at Mountan Spring. He was an incredible person who shared kindness wherever he went. As we feel his loss, let us remember his blessed soul, loyalty and love for life and family. His spirit lives on in those who were fortunate to call him friend.
To his family, my heartfelt condolences and unwavering support go out to you. Take comfort in knowing that Henry was a great father, brother, advisor and professional who touched the lives of many.
Rest in peace my brother. Thank you for the joy you brought to our lives. Your memories will continue to inspire us to live each day to its fullest just the way you did, until we meet again.
Carlton SolasHenry Batson , classmate, friend, brother from another mother .The person we named 'satellite " in 1985 because of his ability to know the names of people , cars they drove, license plate numbers, location and other minute details, has left us in bewilderment with his passing. A smart, quietly passionate , assertive , positive , astute human being . Henry was well known , loved and admired by all. In his later years his ability to connect friends, situations and link ups across the world was phenomenal and worthy of note. He was the glue that stuck people who he came across together. His measured demeanor and way of speaking was legendary. A great, great, great human being. He will be very sadly missed . Heartfelt condolences to the family who must be deeply hurt. Sleep well my brother until we meet again.
Patrick HunterOur paths crossed in 1996 during our Master's Degree journey. Henry's remarkable spirit initiated our project group, and we ' re forever grateful. Henry injected humour through daunting challenges with completing our group projects, stress, and tears, calming our anxieties and helping us excel. Our group consistently delivered exceptional work, earning top grades. Beyond academics, he was a dear friend; these cherished memories are etched in our hearts and minds.
News of Henry's passing has left us shocked and profoundly saddened. The void he leaves behind is immeasurable. We stand united in grief, sharing tears and fond remembrances. We extend our deepest sympathies to Orleen, Henry's beloved wife, and their children. Rest in peace, dear Henry. May your soul find eternal serenity.
With love and heartfelt condolences,
Pat, Carol, and Wade"NOMATTERWHERELIFETAKESYOU,ALWAYSPACKAPOSITIVEATTITUDE."
Heisrichestwhoiscontentwiththeleast,for contentmentisthewealthofnature.
Socrates
“Of all my mothers children I love myself the best”.
You had me repeating this from the day I could put a sentence together. It might sound ridiculous to many but overtime I came to understand the meaning. It meant with the love of self I would always be thinking of doing the right things, I would always think of others because if it did not feel right for me then I would not give it to others and that I was responsible for my happiness.
Thank you Dad for always finding the time to be at Every swim meet, tennis match graduation or special event that I had. I would always look and see that smile of of adoration and encouragement on your face in the stands. Knowing that you were always going to be there was motivation for me to always give my best.
You always said that you did not believe in children’s out patient care so we were to make the best of opportunities because you won’t be around forever. I remember the day you told me that when I sat in your car I should look like I was begging a drive. “ Look your part you said” no reclining of seat, “this belongs to Henry Batson” . That was your lesson on not taking things for granted and the importance of gratitude which is how you lived your life.
Thank you for showing me how to be an authentic, decent and dedicated human being , not sweating the small stuff and always carrying things through to the end no matter how hard. You have taught me the importance of family and how to be a man by the way you cared for Mom, Alexandria and me.
You loved me unconditionally and I could ask for no more. Our time was cut short, as there was so much more for us to do together. I was not given the opportunity to do the things that I wanted to do for you now I have shown that I will not need out patient care.
I will however hold on to all the beautiful memories that we shared, you were a great father and I owe a lot to you for the person I am today. I will always reflect on some of the quotes that you adopted quotes that really put things in perspective.
I will always love you and you will forever be in my heart.
2nd Scripture Reading
St. John 11: 33-35
PRAYER FOR THE FAMILY
PRAYER OF COMMENDATION
Angela Batson (Sister)
HYMN
When peace like a river, attendeth my way
When sorrows like sea billows roll
Whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say
It is well, it is well, with my soul
Refrain
It is well (it is well)
With my soul (with my soul)
It is well, it is well with my soul
Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come
Let this blest assurance control
That Christ has regarded my helpless estate And hath shed His own blood for my soul
Refrain
My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought!
My sin, not in part but the whole Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, o my soul!
Refrain
Solo: Time to Say Goodbye
Rev. Norbert Stephens
RECESSION:
Musical interlude
IFYOU CAN'T FLY THEN RUN, IF YOU CAN'T RUN WALK, IF YOU CAN'T WALK CRAWL, BUT BY ALL MEANS KEEP MOVING.”
In this my last letter to you I want you to know how happy you made me. In this my last letter to you I want you to know how happy you made me.
I will miss your friendship, words of encouragement and your adoration. I I will miss your friendship, words of encouragement and your adoration. I will miss your just calling me in the middle of the day to ask ‘how things.’ will miss your just calling me in the middle of the day to ask ‘how things.’
I will miss sitting and watching you interact with your birds. I will miss I will miss sitting and watching you interact with your birds. I will miss our conversations. I will miss your practicing the new dances and asking our conversations. I will miss your practicing the new dances and asking me why I hadn’t caught them yet. I will miss the random pieces of paper me why I hadn’t caught them yet. I will miss the random pieces of paper around the place where you wrote down a new song that you had never around the place where you wrote down a new song that you had never heard before. I will miss your smile and hearty laughter. I will miss your heard before. I will miss your smile and hearty laughter. I will miss your smell, boy did you smell good. smell, boy did you smell good.
No words can describe the events since April 28 through to June 28, 2023. No words can describe the events since April 28 through to June 28, 2023. Two months; not enough time to even process much more understand. Two months; not enough time to even process much more understand. On June 27th I saw you embarking on a journey with yourself and your On June 27th I saw you embarking on a journey with yourself and your maker. I am happy that you were able to declare that ‘it was well with your maker. I am happy that you were able to declare that ‘it was well with your soul,’ as you sang in spite of the pain. soul,’ as you sang in spite of the pain.
Each day I open my eyes hoping that this has been a dream from which I Each day I open my eyes hoping that this has been a dream from which I will soon awaken, but it is not. As you walk on my friend, know that you will soon awaken, but it is not. As you walk on my friend, know that you gave the children and me a great life. gave the children and me a great life.
You would say every morning, ‘everyday spent above ground is a good You would say every morning, ‘everyday spent above ground is a good day,’ but honestly these last few days have not been good days. day,’ but honestly these last few days have not been good days.
This was not a part of our blue print!
This was not a part of our blue print!
Honey, I will always love you, and I thank you for the beautiful love that Honey, I will always love you, and I thank you for the beautiful love that we shared. we shared.
