A Service of Thanksgiving and Praise for Herman Godfrey Benson A Service of Thanksgiving and Praise for Herman Godfrey Benson
A Service of Thanksgiving and Praise for Herman Godfrey Benson
Lay Minister Herman Godfrey Benson 1941 - 2011 20 Layout: MDW of T: 361-7763 W: printme7777.weebly.com Printing: SAM’s Business Machines T: 326-1766/8 E: sales@sbmbahamas.com W: sbmbahamas.com
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A Service of Thanksgiving and Praise for Herman Godfrey Benson A Service of Thanksgiving and Praise for Herman Godfrey Benson
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A Service of Thanksgiving and Praise for Herman Godfrey Benson
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A Service of Thanksgiving and Praise for Herman Godfrey Benson A Service of Thanksgiving and Praise for Herman Godfrey Benson
A Service of Thanksgiving and Praise for Herman Godfrey Benson
A SERVICE OF THANKSGIVING AND PRAISE for the life of
Lay Minister Herman Godfrey Benson Born: 16th July, 1941 Died: 22nd July, 2011 Service held at THE CHURCH OF GOD OF PROPHECY Queen’s Street, Cockburn Town, San Salvador, Bahamas Saturday, 6th August, 2011 at 2:00 pm CHIEF OFFICIANT Bishop Pastor Clarence N. Williams, CA, PA. Senior Pastor, Church of God of Prophecy Seven Hills, Nassau, Bahamas and The Bishop of Turks and Caicos Islands ASSISTED BY Other Ministers of the Gospel INTERMENT North Victoria Hill Public Cemetery San Salvador, Bahamas 18
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A Service of Thanksgiving and Praise for Herman Godfrey Benson A Service of Thanksgiving and Praise for Herman Godfrey Benson
A Service of Thanksgiving and Praise for Herman Godfrey Benson
OBITUARY We remember Ben “King Cole” It was 70 years ago on July 16, 1941, in the quiet little settlement of North Victoria Hill, San Salvador that Joseph and Aramina (Deceased) became the proud parents of a second son, whom they named Herman Godfrey Benson, affectionately known as “King Cole.” Herman obtained his education at San Salvador All-Age School. This institution helped prepare Herman for many changing scenes. Upon leaving school, he worked at the Pan American Base in San Salvador as an excellent Cook and his love of cooking he carried throughout his life. He loved to cook for everyone whom he welcomed in his home. He would always ask if they were hungry? Herman was gifted in many ways, and prepared many delicious meals. Later on, he travelled to Nassau and worked as a Cook on the mail boat “MV Church Bay.” In addition, he was employed at the Balmoral Beach Hotel in the Engineering Department for many years, and later became the Chief Engineer at the Pilot House Club. Afterwards, he went on to work at The Britannia Towers as Deputy Director of Engineering. Herman was an extraordinary, hardworking, neat individual with a strict code of ethics. Furthermore, he was an extremely talented man, always with a huge smile on his face, however, when it was time to work and being the man in charge, he would say, “Zero tolerance, I came to do the job and I came to do it right.” He was also employed at Sun International “Atlantis” as Director of the Water Production Plant. After a few years, he moved on as the Director of Mechanical Engineering at the Radisson Cable Beach Resort until his retirement. Being an adventurous, energetic and serious minded individual, Herman loved hunting and fishing. During his adventures, either fishing on the rocks or in his boat, one can guarantee that he never came back empty handed. He was an avid and precise shooter, who had the ability to close his eyes and shoot a bird. Even during his illness, he desired to be in the wild and on the water. During his visits with his sisters and other family members in San Salvador, excitement was always in the air; just to see Herman all dressed up in his camouflage attire, holding his gun ready to retrace his father’s steps. King Cole, as a hunter actually went into the woods and always brought back food for the family and Minerva, his eldest sister would always distribute the catch. Herman was a devoted member of The Church of God of Prophecy, Seven Hills. His devoted wife Rosemary, with the support of his sons Dennis, Godfrey Jr., Jeronomoe, Cordero, his daughter Sonia, and his mother-in-law Maud Carroll “Mama,” took care of him after becoming ill and his brother Frederick supported and took care of him also, reading the Bible and speaking encouraging words to him. Herman’s four sisters, Minerva, Ruth, Juanita and Marina, travelled to Nassau to visit him and offered their full support. His devoted niece Nurse JoAnne “Joey,” and his nephew Dale, whom he could call on at any time, was at his side whenever needed. Herman loved his family, his church brothers and sisters (who visited regularly), the Men’s Fellowship conducted by Rev. Julian A. Johnson, his neighbours, and his friends. He had the support of his children, his church family, and his loyal and devoted Bishop Clarence N. Williams, and his wife who constantly prayed with him. As Herman’s health deteriorated, Bishop Clarence N. Williams, who was his spiritual mentor and friend, came to his home as he always did and prayed, ministered and counseled until his demise. Nurse Celeste King,
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A Service of Thanksgiving and Praise for Herman Godfrey Benson
A Service of Thanksgiving and Praise for Herman Godfrey Benson
PALL BEARERS
a devoted and loving family friend, gave her time and professional services faithfully to Herman throughout his illness until he passed.
Dale Marche (Nephew) Keith Williams (Nephew) Duke Kerney (Nephew) Floyd Dorsette (Nephew) Humphrey Omnski (Nephew) Clement Jones (Nephew) Alvin Avarity (Nephew) David Knowles (Friend)
Fredrick Benson (Nephew) Julian Ferguson (Nephew) John Ferguson (Nephew) Devon Ferguson (Nephew) Pedro Williams (Nephew) “Lil” Stafford Benson Jr. (Nephew) Jevon Messam (Nephew) Dwight Knowles (Friend)
HONORARY PALL BEARERS Jeronomoe Benson (Son) Godfrey Benson (Son) Dennis Benson (Son) Bernard Benson (Son) Herman Benson Jr. (Son) Stafford Benson (Son) Fredrick Benson (Son)
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS We the family would like to express a sincere and heartfelt thank you to our family and friends for sharing our grief and consoling us in our time of sorrow. Your visits, prayers, kind words, gifts and telephone calls gave us strength and courage to carry on. Our sorrow is easier to bear with the help of God and friends and family like you and we appreciate all you have done for us during our time of bereavement. May Almighty God bestow His richest blessing on each and every one of you.
The Family
On the 21st of July, 2011, his health started to fail him and Bishop Clarence N. Williams prayed and anointed him. Later that evening, The Reverend Father Atma Budhu from Epiphany Anglican Church, prayed, anointed and had a song service along with family members. In the wee hours of the morning, Bishop Clarence Williams was called upon, along with nurse Celeste King and at 6:33 am on 22nd July, 2011, Herman slept peacefully away into eternity. Left to mourn is his strong, supportive, devoted and loving wife: Rosemary. Loving children: Jeronomoe, Dennis, Herman Godfrey, Bernard, Godfrey, Sonia, Slone, Nurse Leotha, Kendra, Christina, and Sharon Benson. Adopted sons: Senator Hon. Michael Pintard, Ronald Rollins, Cordero Greenslade, Arthur Adderley, Raymond and Rayshad Cartwright. Supportive sisters: Ruth Nairn, Minerva, Juanita, and Marina Benson. Supportive brothers: Frederick and Stafford Benson. Grandchildren: Zenobia & Renardo Benson, Obrinique Rolle, Manesha Barton, Kendrick Williams, Laurrane Benson, Sherika, Stacy & Indera Benson, Jamal Detiko Benson, Terica Russell-Bartholomew, Dawn, Renaldo, Antonio, Eric Jr., Runeil, Antinice and James. Great-Grandchildren: Alphanique Benson, Carlisa, Carlington Jr., Daraughn, Sirlesto and Latia. Daughter-in-Law: Tina Benson. God-Child: Javis Jones. Father and Mother-in-Law: Wendall and Maud Carroll. Sisters-in-Law: Josalee Benson, Jennifer Carroll, Andrea Cooper, Melinda Rolle, Shirel Cartwright and Beluah Carroll. Brothers-in-Law: Edison Carroll, Michael Carroll, Michael Cooper, Craig Cartwright & Trevor Rolle. Nieces: Joann, Angelia, Cindy, Olga, Sloan, Neisha, Garnell, Denise, Kim, Rochelle, Sonia, Rea, Marlene, Pandora, Tanya, Nicole, Arlene, Esther, Mordell, Unice, Rebecka, Feistina, Amelia, Shantell, Ameaka, Karis, Anika, Debbie Bullard, Levander, Alvonetta, Simone, Pedra, Tredijah, Trevier, Arianna, Shantia, Shannel, Melina, Debbie Marche, Charlene Kerney, Wenzelee, Nioka, Yvonne, Tatiana, Delareese, Margaret, Chacara Carroll. Nephews: Isiah, Rufus, Winton, Cardinal, Alvin, Clayton, Keith, Duke, Floyd, Clement, Dale, Humphrey, John, Devon, Julian, Frederick Jr., Stafford Jr., Alvin Jr., Charlie, Kenny, Cecil, Andre, Beau, Chen, Van, Kelsey, Harry, Gerrin, Neil, Dennis, Raymond, Rayshad, Raynaldo, Michael, Arthur, Miguel, Travis, Brandon, Kayvan and Kevyn. Other relatives and friends including: Laura Benson & family, Bishop Clarence N. Williams & Dr. Barbara Williams & family, Rev’d Atma Budhu & family of Epiphany Anglican Church, Rev’d S. Sebastian Campbell & family, St. Gregory’s Anglican Church Usher Board, Social Committee, ACW, ACM, Prayer Group, & Vestry, Allison Rollins, Carol Barr & family, Berlice Pintard, Alurick Butler & family, Diane Jones & family, Idell Jones & family, Cardine Fernandez & family, Max Ferguson & family, Nathanial Jones & family, Clifford Fernandez & family, Nancy, Alfred, Violet, Roy Storr, Cedrick Storr & family, Ellie Storr & family, Helen Arnette & family, Evelyn Stirrup & family,
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A Service of Thanksgiving and Praise for Herman Godfrey Benson A Service of Thanksgiving and Praise for Herman Godfrey Benson
A Service of Thanksgiving and Praise for Herman Godfrey Benson
Evelyn Woods & family, Elan Arnette & family, Crayvon Arnette & family, Norris Arnette & family, Florie Lightfoot & family, Rhonda Nottage & family, Wellie Fernander & family, Austin, Lloyd, Mike, Bethsaida & Elva Jones, Clemintina Storr & family, Cathrine Storr, Hazel Edgecombe, Blonie Butler & family, Matina Williams & family, Jervis Jones & family, Judith Gibson & family, Faith Jones & family, Dianne Benson & family, Theresa Strachan & family, Roland & Maudline Pinder & family, Inez Jones & family, Pastor Hanna & family, Millicent Williams & family. Hank & Taz Porter (Chicago, Illinois), Clifford Galanis & family, Osborne & Christine Sawyer & family, William & Patrice Carroll & family, Tony & Marva Cleare & family, Danny Knowles & family, The Saunders family, Trudy Deal & family, Keith Gilbert & family, Andre Seymour & family, Catherine Dean & family, Franklyn Simmons & family, Clayvone Seymour & family, Lily Major & family, Bradley Forbes & family, The Gibson family, Gary & Monique Greenslade & family, Mike Saunders & family, Edith Gilbert, Adderley & family, David & Charlotte Hostt & family, Philip Carroll & family, Melvin Carroll & family, Armstrong family, Rigby family, Charles & Pat McPhee & family, Barbaramae Young & family, Golda Scott & family, Sheldon Morris & family, The Williams family, Shirley Williams & family, Margaret Pratt & family, Abigail Ferguson & family, Hepburn family, Carlington & Cleora Wilkinson & family, Edward Williams & family, Spike Mackey & family, Celeste King & family, Rochelly Adderley & family, Andrelly Dean & family, Romer, Edwards & family, Miller family, Muriel Symonette & family, Dennis Carew & family, Edith Gilbert & family, Antone Hamilton & family, Frank Knowles & family, Janet Weech & family, Arthur Adderley & family, Xavier Rolle & family, Stephen Miller & family, Erica Armbrister & family, Learlene Christie & family, George & Helen Adderley & family, Greg & Sheena Adderley & family, George Meyers & family, Stephen Sawyer & family, Phyllis & Kevin McKinney & family, Joycelyn & Davian Lightbourne & family, Erica Stubbs & family, Birdie Woodside & family, Barbara Duncombe & family, Edith Moore & family, Bernard & Lisa Fristch of Malibu, California, Tom & Mary Basden & family, The Maynard family, Farquharson family, Luther Major, Donna Topey, Vanita Carroll, Gail Williams, Pearl Deveaux & family, Deidre Pinder & family, Jennings family, Endel Adderley & family, Munnings family, John Munnings & family, Kevin Kemp & family, The Louis Family, Darville family, William King & family, Sharine Thompson & family, Leoana Strachan & family, Barbara Barns & family, Sue Bains & family, Shirley Newton & family, Lashan Smith & family, Jefford, Martin, Eddie, Gladstone Sands & family, Anthony Romar & family, Ben McPhee & family, Bramen Jones & family, Jeffrey Pratt & family, Nacho Ranger & family, Don Roker & family, Endell Adderley & family, Charles & Barbara Hanna & family, Salvan Mercant & family, Celso & family, Patrick, Vivian Ellis & family, Cynthia, Nelly Rolle & family, Stephanie Wells & family, Faith R. Ene, Altair Poitier, Constance Delancy & family, Cesar Sena & family, Wellington & family of Fort Lauderdale, Rev’d Julian A. Johnson & Family, Rev’d Rowena S. Fawkes & Family, Dottis Stockdale & Family, Hopeful & Family, Members of the Church of God of Prophecy Seven Hills & Men’s Fellowship, Choir & Lay Ministers, Trevor, Anderson, Livingston, Tennison, Kuran, Travis, Dr. Walif Aji M.D., F.A.C.C. of the Hollywood Heart Center (Florida), Dr. Graham Cates & Family, Dr. Dean Tseretopulos of the Lyford Cay Hospital, Dr. Kunz, Nurse Linda, Indera, Kim, Christal, Ruth, Michelle, Juliete, Lorrinder & Judy, Dr. Kirk Christie & family, Miguel Christie & Family, Dr. Conrad Morgan & family, The Radisson Cable Beach; The Atlantis Utilities Department and the entire Atlantis family, Olive’s Pharmacy, Benson Welding & Mechanical Engineering, The Lyford Cay community, Enviroscape Company Ltd, Bahamas Hotel Industry Management Pension Fund, The Southern Heights community, the entire community of San Salvador and a host of other relatives and friends, too numerous to mention.
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A Service of Thanksgiving and Praise for Herman Godfrey Benson
A Service of Thanksgiving and Praise for Herman Godfrey Benson
GOD’S GARDEN
ORDER OF THE SERVICE
God looked around His garden, and He found an empty place He then looked down upon the earth, and saw your tired face He put His arms around you, and lifted you to rest; God' s Garden must be beautiful, He always takes the best. He knew that you were suffering, He knew you were in pain He knew that you would never, get well on earth again. So He closed your weary eyelids, and whispered " Peace be thine " Then He took you up to Heaven, with Hands so gentle and kind. It broke our hearts to lose you, but you did not go alone, For part of us went with you, the day God called you home.
BY THE MERCY AND GRACE OF GOD San Salvador Praise And Worship Team Family Viewing Of Body And Seating Pallbearers Positions The Coffin At The Altar Ministerial Procession Of The Body
I will miss you!
Ms. Allen A TRIBUTE TO “UNCLE” I have always been proud to say “Uncle”. Now uncle I can solemnly say: “It is finished! the battle is o’er, it is finished! there will be no more war” “Uncle” you have lived a full life, with family and friends then you grew close to the lord. “Uncle” you have impacted many lives one way or the other. I will treasure the memories of our days around the rocks fishing … We made our own tract road to the beach, “ Uncle” you loved the “wild”, you would be all camouflaged up, actually the first time I held a shot gun it was yours. I must say that your wife rose is an excellent chef but she knew you would pull out one of the “Benson” special recipe and it was over. Uncle I can’t forget us going through open heart surgery together, therapy together and recovered together but this time, that Voice came in the wee hours of the morning and said: “This is My beloved son… Herman!” “It’s alright now; you’re in your Saviour’s care.” “Uncle” I love you. “Uncle“ I miss you.
Joey (Joanne) TRIBUTE TO HERMAN G. BENSON — MY FATHER Born Pintard but the man I spent most of my childhood with was Herman Benson. My love for spear fishing, boating and engineering came directly from him. He was an avid sportsman. He taught me and my brothers how to make model airplanes. We went hunting birds in Andros and New Providence together. Those memories never left me. Those experiences shaped me. He and my mother were hard workers and through their work ethic I grew to enjoy work. Fresh out of high school I gained work experience on Benson’s engineering team at Britannia Beach Hotel. He was trusted by the owners of the resort because of his knowledge, commitment to the hotel and his leadership skills. He was and is the most brilliant self-taught man I knew. He was a master plumber, pipe-fitter, AC technician, welder and he understood electrical and mechanical engineering as well as the university trained engineer. Benson worked hard and played even harder. His smooth America accent, bow legs and amazing confidence made him irresistible to the ladies. People just loved Benson, even when he was wrong you still cared about him. Over the years I wished that he saw in the mirror what we, his children saw when we looked at him, a giant of a man who never really appreciated how powerful and influential he was. Nevertheless, my life has been far better for having had Benson in it. We will miss you and continue to love you. Rest in peace Daddy.
Hymn ………………………………………………… “How Great Thou Art” O Lord, my God, when I in awesome wonder, Consider all the world’s Thy Hands have made; I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder, Thy Power through out the universe displayed.
And when I think that God, His Son not sparing, Sent Him to die, I scarce can take it in. That on the Cross, my burdens gladly bearing, He bled and died to take away my sin.
Then sings my soul, my Saviour, God, to Thee, How great Thou art, how great Thou art; Then sings my soul, my Saviour, God, to Thee, How great Thou art, how great Thou art.
When Christ shall come, with shouts of acclamation, And take me Home, what joy shall fill my heart; Then I shall bow, in humble adoration, And there proclaim, my God how great Thou art.
Opening Remarks ………………………….. Bishop Clarence N. Williams Hymn ……………………………………… “When We All Get To Heaven” Sing the wondrous love of Jesus Sing His mercy and His grace In the mansions bright and blessed He’ll prepare for us a place.
Let us then be true and faithful Trusting serving every day Just one glimpse of Him in glory Will the toils of life repay.
When we all get to Heaven What a day of rejoicing that will be! When we all see Jesus We’ll sing and shout the victory. While we walk the pilgrim pathway Clouds will overspread the sky But when trav’ling days are over Not a shadow not a sigh.
Onward to the prize before us Soon His beauty we’ll behold Soon the pearly gates will open We shall tread the streets of gold.
Pastoral Prayer…………………………………………. Pastor Alrick Butler Pastor, St. James Baptist Church
Michael C. Pintard 14
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A Service of Thanksgiving and Praise for Herman Godfrey Benson A Service of Thanksgiving and Praise for Herman Godfrey Benson
A Service of Thanksgiving and Praise for Herman Godfrey Benson
First Scripture Reading: Job 14:1-22 ……. Michael Cooper Jr. (Nephew) ‘A mortal, born of woman, few of days and full of trouble, 2 comes up like a flower and withers, flees like a shadow and does not last. 3 Do you fix your eyes on such a one? Do you bring me into judgment with you? 4 Who can bring a clean thing out of an unclean? No one can. 5 Since their days are determined, and the number of their months is known to you, and you have appointed the bounds that they cannot pass, 6 look away from them, and desist, that they may enjoy, like labourers, their days. 7
‘For there is hope for a tree, if it is cut down, that it will sprout again, and that its shoots will not cease. 8 Though its root grows old in the earth, and its stump dies in the ground, 9 yet at the scent of water it will bud and put forth branches like a young plant. 10 But mortals die, and are laid low; humans expire, and where are they? 11 As waters fail from a lake, and a river wastes away and dries up, 12 so mortals lie down and do not rise again; until the heavens are no more, they will not awake or be roused out of their sleep. 13 O that you would hide me in Sheol, that you would conceal me until your wrath is past, that you would appoint me a set time, and remember me! 14 If mortals die, will they live again? All the days of my service I would wait until my release should come. 15 You would call, and I would answer you; you would long for the work of your hands. 16 For then you would not number my steps, you would not keep watch over my sin; 17 my transgression would be sealed up in a bag, and you would cover over my iniquity. 18 ‘But the mountain falls and crumbles away, and the rock is removed from its place; 19 the waters wear away the stones; the torrents wash away the soil of the earth; so you destroy the hope of mortals. 20 You prevail for ever against them, and they pass away; you change their countenance, and send them away. 21 Their children come to honour, and they do not know it; they are brought low, and it goes unnoticed. 22 They feel only the pain of their own bodies, and mourn only for themselves.’
Musical Selection …………………………………….. Nieces and Nephews Tribute … Clifford Galanis (Friend) - read by Pedro Williams (Nephew) Solo ………………….... “Oh What A Sunrise” - Delerase Benson (Niece) As I Knew Him … Bert Deveaux (Friend) - read by Jevon Messam (Nephew) As I Knew Him … Jeffrey Pratt (Friend) - read by Keith Williams (Nephew) 2nd Scripture Reading: 1 Corinthians 15: 35-58 … Cedric Storr (Nephew) 35
But someone will ask, ‘How are the dead raised? With what kind of body do they come?’ Fool! What you sow does not come to life unless it dies. 37And as for what you sow, you do not sow the body that is to be, but a bare seed, perhaps of wheat or of some other grain. 38But God gives it a body as He has chosen, and to each kind of seed its own body. 39Not all flesh is alike, but there is one flesh for human beings, another for animals, another for birds, and another for fish. 40There are both heavenly bodies and earthly bodies, but the glory of the heavenly is one thing, and that of the earthly is another. 41There is one glory of the sun, and
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A Service of Thanksgiving and Praise for Herman Godfrey Benson
A Service of Thanksgiving and Praise for Herman Godfrey Benson
TRIBUTE TO OUR “UNCLE BEN” Herman Benson also known as Uncle Benson, was truly a loved man, and he will be missed. He was enthusiastic with everything he did. I would always remember the fun times he would carry all his nieces and nephews out on the park to play baseball. At first we all would nag and complain saying “who going in the hot sun?” or “we don’t know how to play baseball,” but that did not phase him from carrying us all. I must say we all did have a splendid time, and was treated with pizza afterwards. Of course he did not tag along with eating pizza, but oh boy!! He sure did love his fry fish. Uncle Benson loved the outdoors; he mostly enjoyed fishing and hunting. He always cared about my sister and I, he showed his love and concern by asking “how we were doing” or “are we behaving.” We all admired him and knew he was a warm hearted person. He was active in church. Uncle Benson exemplified the virtues of being a good father and he loved “jay” with all his heart. It would be difficult for us to accept that he wouldn’t be among us physically, but in our hearts spiritually. Goodbye Uncle Benson and may your heart rest in peace.
Love Tredijah & Trevier TRIBUTE TO MY SECOND FATHER How do I begin to accept that you are gone. Words cannot express what joy you brought to my life and to the lives of others. Uncle Ben a true believer in God. I keep having the images of when my brother Rayshad and I visited during the summers and you would take “jay” and us fishing or beaching and of course to church 10 times a day. I am going to miss those days Uncle Ben especially when Auntie Rose and you would always argue about you wanting to feed us 24/7. I promise I was coming to visit in August but God decided He needed you before I did. Thank you for helping make me the man I am becoming today. Thank you for taking me on my very first trip to Florida, you have impacted my life in so many ways. I was like your second son next to Jay. You have left foot prints in my heart, soul and mind. This summer I am without you but we will meet again someday but until then I have the precious memories we shared right in my heart. Thankful for the years God lent you to me and me to you. Love you always Uncle Benson and may your soul rest in eternal peace. Love, your adopted sons
Raymond and Rayshad TRIBUTE No matter the time lost, being in your presence was like no time had pass. You were always so concerned about others well-being. Your character was one that people couldn’t help but love. I am so happy that you were able to see July 19th, as you had asked God to see. I thank God for the last sight I have of you, where you looked and sounded so good with that warm smile. You gave my family, especially my sister Melissa (deceased), and I many wonderful memories that I will never forget — of which I am so grateful. Your love of aircrafts, sea and sea life was so remarkable! I smile when I think of the aircrafts that hung from the ceiling in places where you lived, going to work with you and seeing the engineering plants you had to deal with- ‘A man of many talents you were.’ My heart aches, but knowing that you were ready to go, in every sense of the word, puts a smile on my face. Unca Benson (as we affectionately called you), you enjoyed life, and I am thankful and so grateful for the part you played in my life - YOU ARE SO LOVED.
Terica Russell
another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars; indeed, star differs from star in glory. 42 So it is with the resurrection of the dead. What is sown is perishable, what is raised is imperishable. 43It is sown in dishonour, it is raised in glory. It is sown in weakness, it is raised in power. 44It is sown a physical body, it is raised a spiritual body. If there is a physical body, there is also a spiritual body. 45Thus it is written, ‘The first man, Adam, became a living being’; the last Adam became a life-giving spirit. 46But it is not the spiritual that is first, but the physical, and then the spiritual. 47The first man was from the earth, a man of dust; the second man is from heaven. 48As was the man of dust, so are those who are of the dust; and as is the man of heaven, so are those who are of heaven. 49Just as we have borne the image of the man of dust, we will also bear the image of the man of heaven. 50 What I am saying, brothers and sisters, is this: flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable. 51Listen, I will tell you a mystery! We will not all die, but we will all be changed, 52in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. 53For this perishable body must put on imperishability, and this mortal body must put on immortality. 54When this perishable body puts on imperishability, and this mortal body puts on immortality, then the saying that is written will be fulfilled: ‘Death has been swallowed up in victory.’ 55 ‘Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?’ 56 The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. 57But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 58 Therefore, my beloved, be steadfast, immovable, always excelling in the work of the Lord, because you know that in the Lord your labour is not in vain.
Solo ……………………..…………………………...… Angela Martin (Niece) Obituary …………………………….…………………………. read in silence Sermon from the Lord …………….. Bishop Pastor Clarence N. Williams Our Brother Will Rise Again ……………………………….. John 11: 20-27 20
When Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went and met Him, while Mary stayed at home. 21Martha said to Jesus, ‘Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died. 22 But even now I know that God will give You whatever You ask of Him.’ 23Jesus said to her, ‘Your brother will rise again.’ 24Martha said to Him, ‘I know that he will rise again in the resurrection on the last day.’ 25Jesus said to her, ‘I Am the resurrection and the life. Those who believe in Me, even though they die, will live, 26and everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die. Do you believe this?’ 27She said to Him, ‘Yes, Lord, I believe that You are the Messiah, the Son of God, the One coming into the world.’
TRIBUTE TO “UNCLE BEN” At the age of five I came to know Jeronomoe as he attended Kingsway Academy. Jeronomoe aka “Jay” quickly became my best friend. Through our friendship I met his father, Mr. Benson, who instantly become like a father to me. If no one knew any better, one would think I was his son also. I actually remember Uncle Ben saying to me, “I am no different to him than Jay”. I could remember the hunting, the fishing and so much more to mention at this time, but most of all the commitment he made in ensuring Jay and I would attend church. Besides my father, Uncle Ben was the father I felt any child would want. I love you Uncle Ben and I will most certainly miss you. You were small in stature but, a giant of a man in my heart. You are home now and I know your soul is resting in peace.
Invitation To Prayer And Salvation Prayers For The Family …………... Bishop Pastor Clarence N. Williams Dismissal Of The Body
Cordero Greenslade 12
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A Service of Thanksgiving and Praise for Herman Godfrey Benson
Recessional Hymn …………………………………………………...……. “It Is Finished”
"That Glad Reunion Day” There will be a happy meeting in Heaven I know When we see the many loved ones we've known here below Gathered on that blessed hilltop with hearts all aglow That will be a glad reunion day.
There's a line that is drawn through the ages On that line stands an old rugged cross On that cross, a battle is raging To gain a man's soul or it's loss
The earth shakes with the force of the conflict And the sun refuses to shine For there hangs God's son, in the balance And then through the darkness he cries
Glad day, a wonderful day, Glad day, a glorious day There with all the holy angels and loved ones to stay That will be a glad reunion day.
It is finished, the battle is over It is finished, there'll be no more war It is finished, the end of the conflict It is finished and Jesus is Lord
Yet in my heart, the battle was still raging Not all prisoners of war had come home These were battlefields of my own making I didn't know that the war had been won
There within the holy city we'll sing and rejoice, Praising Christ the blessed Saviour with heart and with voice; Tell Him how we came to love Him and make Him our choice, That will be a glad reunion day.
On one side, march the forces of evil All the demons, all the devils of hell On the other, the angels of glory And they meet on Golgotha's hill
Oh, but then I heard the King of the ages Had fought all the battles for me And that victory was mine for the claiming And now praise His name, I am free.
THE SERVICE AT THE GRAVE The Bishop Receives The body The Committal Hymn ……………………….……………………. “That Glad Reunion Day” Pastoral Prayers Pastoral Scripture Reading Committal Of The Body ………...… Bishop Pastor Clarence N. Williams “For as much as it has pleased Almighty God who acted in His own providence and wisdom to take out of this world the Soul of our Dear Brother Lay Minister Herman Godfrey Benson, we the Lord’s servants and ministers commit his body to the ground: earth to earth, dust to dust and ashes to ashes. There to await the first and certain resurrection of our Blessed Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them.”
Hymn ……………………………………………….………….. “City of Gold” Remarks by Funeral Director—Restview Hymns …………………………………………………….. “It’s Alright Now” “Last Mile of the Way” “The Haven of Rest” Bishop’s Final Remarks And Benediction 10
A Service of Thanksgiving and Praise for Herman Godfrey Benson
When we live a million years in that wonderful place Basking in the love of Jesus, beholding His face It will seem but just a moment of praising His grace That will be a glad reunion day. “City of Gold” There’s a city of light, where there cometh no night; ‘Tis a city of beauty untold; All my treasures are there and its beauty I’ll share, When I get to that City of Gold. When I leave all trouble and care, I shall say good morning up there; I will have great gladness untold; When I get to that City of Gold. There’s no sorrow up there, in that city so fair, And no sickness can enter I’m told; Shadows all will have flown, I will meet friends I’ve known, When I get to that City of Gold. Won’t you go there with me to the home of the free, Would you see heaven’s beauty unfold? If you will, come along, we will sing heaven’s song, When we get to that City of Gold. “It’s Alright Now” There was a time I travelled a lonely sinful road, Beneath a heavy burden bending low; But now all things are diff’rent, For Jesus took my load, It’s alright now, I’m His I know. It’s alright now, for I am in my Saviour’s care, It’s alright now, my Saviour hears and answers prayer He’ll walk beside ‘til I climb the heav’nly stair, And ev’rything is alright now. A-down a lonely pathway without a friend to guide, I walked in sin and sorrow all alone; ‘Til Jesus came and found me, And drew me to His side, It’s alright now, for I’m His own.
No more in sin I wonder, no more in darkness roam, The Lord has placed my feet on higher ground; Each day new heights I’m gaining, My soul is nearing home, It’s alright now, I’m heaven bound. “Last Mile of the Way” If I walk in the pathway of duty, If I work till the close of the day, I shall see the great King in His beauty, When I’ve gone the last mile of the way. When I’ve gone the last mile of the way, I will rest at the close of the day; And I know there are joys that await me, When I’ve gone the last mile of the way. If for Christ I proclaim the glad story, If I seek for His sheep gone astray, I am sure He will show me His glory, When I’ve gone the last mile of the way. Here the dearest of ties we must sever, Tears of sorrow are seen every day; But no sickness, no sighing forever, When I’ve gone the last mile of the way. And if here I have earnestly striven, And have tried all His will to obey, ’Twill enhance all the rapture of heaven, When I’ve gone the last mile of the way. “The Haven of Rest” My soul in sad exile was out on life’s sea, So burdened with sin and distressed, Till I heard a sweet voice, saying, “Make Me your choice”; And I entered the “Haven of Rest”! I’ve anchored my soul in the “Haven of Rest,” I’ll sail the wide seas no more; The tempest may sweep over wild, stormy, deep, In Jesus I’m safe evermore. I yielded myself to His tender embrace, In faith taking hold of the Word, My fetters fell off, and I anchored my soul; The “Haven of Rest” is my Lord. The song of my soul, since the Lord made me whole, Has been the old story so blest, Of Jesus, who’ll save whosoever will have A home in the “Haven of Rest.” How precious the thought that we all may recline, Like John, the beloved so blest, On Jesus’ strong arm, where no tempest can harm, Secure in the “Haven of Rest.” Oh, come to the Saviour, He patiently waits To save by His power divine; Come, anchor your soul in the “Haven of Rest,” And say, “My Beloved is mine.”
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