A Life of Purpose | Anita Louise Doherty |
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A REQUIEM EUCHARIST FOR THE LIFE OF THE LATE
ANITA
LOUISE DOHERTY SUNRISE: 25th January, 1949 SUNSET: 27th March, 2022 AGE: 73 years SERVICE HELD AT The Pro-Cathedral of Christ the King Saturday 9th April, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. OFFICIATING Canon Norman Lightbourne ASSISTED BY Fr. Colin Saunders Canon Curtis Robinson The Very Rev’d Harry J. L. Bain The Venerable Earl Hepburn Fr. Stephen Grant Fr. Oswald Pinder Fr. Jude Edomwonyi Fr. Kirkland Russell Rev. Marie Roach-Hepburn ORGANIST Stephanie Seymour Kevin Tomlinson INTERMENT The Columbarium & Remembrance Garden The Pro-Cathedral of Christ the King
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| Anita Louise Doherty | A Life of Purpose
Life & Legacy of
ANITA L. DOHERTY L
oving Wife, protective Mother, adoring grandmother, supportive Sister, loyal Friend, distinguished Educator, and Chief Warrior. Mrs. Anita Louise Doherty nee deGregory was the epitome of what a phenomenal woman should be. Anita made her grand entrance into this world on Tuesday, January 25th, 1949. The first child from the union of Basil (Peter) and Theresa deGregory, Anita was born in Nassau, Bahamas, and was truly a “Tuesday’s child” - “full of grace”; and what a blessing
and a perfect gift from God was she. In 1950 Anita’s little sister Patrice (deceased) made her appearance, and their parents would add to the family in almost each of the years that followed their sojurn in Nassau. Sharon (deceased), the third child was born in 1952 followed by Basil (“Basie”)in 1953 and Deidre in 1954. Anita described the excitement of the arrivals of her younger brother’s and sister’s as presents on Christmas morning; so for her, Christmas came twice a year! In 1954 while living on Hospital lane, Anita started her formative education at Ms. Phoebe Smith’s school, and shortly after Craig was born in 1955 and her parents hauled
their brood from Nassau to Peter’s birthplace, the capital of Grand Bahama, West End. Anita was at the tender age of 5 when she first planted her feet where she would later become known as one of the greatest icons of Grand Bahama, a child of the West End soil. It would be in West End that the “deGregory” name would become synonymous with and remain an integral part of the rich history of the Settlement. Anita’s parents established themselves as leading entrepreneurs in the community and opened The Anglers Hotel and The Anglers Grocery Store. Anita’s father being a pilot, would travel back and forth to Coconut Grove to the produce exchange and Anita played the role of Mother’s little helper. In 1959 Anita’s baby brother Kim was born, in West End and was exactly ten years her junior. Anita was a kind soul who wholeheartedly welcomed her Mother’s adopted daughter Gurtha and father’s children Dexter, Derek, Eartha, Candace, Peter, Porche, Troy, Sean, Peter, Kamal, and Kazim, making the deGregory family
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what we know them today; a group of fun loving personalities. The perfect team. She continued her matriculation at the West End All Aged School, where she zestfully played “rounders” and “races” in the schoolyard and on streets adjacent to the sea wall. Residing across the street from the dock, her father Peter was renowned for throwing children into the water, in an effort to ensure that everyone would learn to swim, whether they liked it or not. In 1961 as life would have it at the age of 11, she was accepted and attended the prestigious Hampton School for girls, in the lofty mountains of Malvern, Jamaica. Anita’s father visited the Caribbean country often. Safety was crucial to him, so even though she was schooling away from home, she was never too far because he would think it nothing to hop on his plane and fly to Jamaica to make sure all was in order. At Hampton, Anita continued her zeal and interest in sports and participated in all the athletic activities that were offered. Her raw talent was quickly recognized by the Director of Sports and Physical
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Education, who encouraged her to develop her potential to the fullest. Throughout her years at Hampton, Anita dominated field hockey, tennis, and netball, bringing home a title for one or the other every year. However, it would be in her final year that she would lead all three of her teams to national victories, conquering and acquiring all three cups! On an individual level, Anita also won Jamaica’s under 16 and 18 divisions in the National Tennis Championships. Upon graduating in 1967, Anita was recommended by her P.E. teacher and given the opportunity to attend Ulster College of Physical Education in Northern Ireland, where she pursued studies in Teaching and Physical Education. While at Ulster she represented Ireland on their national level in Under 21 netball tournament and track and field events. Anita was a fashionista and a connoisseur of wigs, long before wigs were in style. Her sister Deidre recalls that while Anita was aggressively chasing an opponent at one of her many netball matches, her wig flew off. With confidence, Anita gracefully picked up the faux hair and threw it into the crowd who accepted it
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with cheers. She still made the goal. While in Ireland celebrating Rag week, on a breezy summer evening in 1968, Anita attended the charitable Rag Ball. There standing statuesque in bright green fishnet stockings she caught the eye of an impressionable handsome local Irishman, a Royal Air Force pilot by the name of John Doherty. That evening as fate would have it, the two were honored and crowned Prince and Princess of the Rag Ball, thus sparking a love affair of a lifetime. John became enthralled and after introducing “Nita”, as he affectionately called her, to his family, they acted more like her parents than his, he fondly recalls. After one and a half years of dating, John eagerly popped the question “will you marry me?” on the steps of the City Hall in Belfast. Nita joyfully said “yes”. Upon graduating after her engagement, she moved back to Grand Bahama with her fiancée in tow. Originally setting the wedding date for July, Anita and John decided to postpone their special day to accommodate her representing The Bahamas, in Track and Field at the 1970 British Commonwealth Games, taking place in Edinborough, Scotland slated for that same month. Having decided on December later that year, Anita got beautifully dressed on the
morning of the 20th and left Patrice and Deidre behind, shouting, “You all are not ready! I am leaving! See you there!”, and made her way to Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church to finalize her nuptials. She was never late! While teaching at Hawksbill High School in 1972 the young couple welcomed their firstborn, Sean Patrick on March 8th. In 1974 Anita accepted a teaching post at D.W. Davis and the family relocated to New Providence. Shortly after, tragedy struck when a drunk driver hit and killed Sean in a horrific bicycle accident. Due to this traumatic experience, she thought it best to move back to Grand Bahama to be nearer to her immediate family. On August 11th, 1975 Anita gave birth to their second son, whom she adoringly named John Patrick, after his late brother. They made it a point to call the baby ”Lil John” to distinguish him from his father. Making sure Lil John would have company and because they did everything together, Anita mapped out a schedule ensuring that her sisters Patrice and Deidre would also give birth that year. Cousins Melissa Louise (Deidre’s firstborn) whom in true big sister fashion Anita named after herself and Adam (Patrice’s
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focus on family and healing. In 1979 Mrs. Doherty, began her long and distinguished career at Freeport High (FHS), which then became Freeport Anglican High (FAHS), and is now Bishop Michael Eldon School (BMES) as a P.E teacher. Throughout her time as a teacher at the esteemed school which dates back to 1965, she taught many other subjects including English and Family Life. Mrs. D, as she was revered and called by her students, added to the historic greatness of this educational institution and dedicated herself to the mission of Bishop Michael – to educate students in body, mind, and spirit. Educating the total person in an atmosphere of acceptance, discipline, and love. “Are you a duck?, she would always ask. “Or are you an eagle?! There were no ducks at “her” school. Mrs. Doherty gave the best and expected the best. She took absolute pride in producing and nurturing her students, reminding and reiterating that ducks follow but eagles lead! Mrs. D with her warrior spirit led by example, and
firstborn) were also born mere months after each other. The Three Musketeers. Following the arrival of John Patrick, her husband John was hired to fly for Libyan Arab Airlines and moved to Africa. Anita and baby John emigrated and joined him the following year. Upon vacating Libya, the family returned to make a life in Nassau, where they had their third son Kerry. Sadly Kerry succumbed to an infection of the umbilicus ten days after birth and after this loss, Anita took the next 2 years to 6
| Anita Louise Doherty | A Life of Purpose
ensured that she fostered a sense of value and acknowledged everyone she encountered. She showed you, you mattered. She made you feel special and she made you feel like family because to her, you were indeed special, and you were indeed family. In reflecting on the history of her school, she was often struck by the wonderful community and the closeness that was created and garnered at FHS, FAHS, and BMES throughout the years. Mrs. Doherty’s tenure at BMES lasted a remarkable 38 years, she was the heart and soul of the institution. She transitioned from teacher to Senior Mistress and in 1987 she became Vice-Principal of BMES. As the years passed Anita balanced family and school life well. She would spend every Sunday with her immediate and extended family, whether at Club Caribe on the beach, yachting on the “Anita Louise” to Peterson’s Cay which culminated at Britannia Pub where the catch of the day was scaled and served as dinner. Her house was the headquarters for all to connect and rehash the
events of the week. She orchestrated and officiated weekly swim races against the cousins. “Marco”…“Polo!” resonated throughout the day and Byron Lee & the Dragonaires played in the background. It was no surprise that 11 Ocean Hill Boulevard was “Party Central” and would kick off the holiday season every year. December 25th at Anita’s, 26th at Deidre’s, the Sunday that followed at Patrice’s, and New Year’s Day at The Moss’. Family time was of the utmost importance. The village and its upkeep were essential for the nurturing of the unit as a whole. Her parents ingrained in her, the value of family togetherness and its relevance. Saturday days were scheduled for tennis at the Grand Bahama Squash Club. Her nieces and nephews would be hip to hip to tag along, and Lil John and Adam spent so much time there, that they became masters in table tennis. Anita garnished the potential in all “her” children and felt it was imperative to their overall development. Saturday nights were spent on Focal Field, playing night
league women’s softball with Standard Plumbing. It was no surprise due to her agility and versatility, she played the position of shortstop - Captain of the infield, and master communicator – she was in charge. Anita made history by the being a member on the first women’s softball team to travel internationally. Her family was most important to Anita and in 2001 news spread of the arrival of her first grandchild, Sean-Ciaran. New parents John Patrick and his wife Tara, respectfully named their bundle after Anita’s late son, Sean, and brother-in-law Ciaran. Shortly after his birth, Anita scurried to Nova Scotia, Canada unannounced, to welcome her prince faster than she ran the 200m. Upon her arrival, she obliged her son and daughter-in-law with a hug and then muttered “come, come, come, gimme my gran!”. She spent the next seven days with babe in arms, cuddling, cherishing, and catering to his every need, as only “Nana” could. An immediate and beautifully peaceful bond was formed and continued throughout her life. When her son John Patrick and his family moved back to Grand Bahama in the summer of 2001, she was waiting with open arms in support of their new life. A few years would pass and the joyful news of another “gran” came to be, however this time, the “gran” was as a girl. Princess Hadyn Rane made her debut and turned out to be Anita’s twin;
feisty, fierce, and principled just like her grandmother. Hadyn’s personality mirrored Anita’s so much, that it was no doubt the deGregory blood coursed through her veins, and she was quickly nicknamed “Lil Nita”! Traditional Sunday drives would end up to Nana’s home base, no place else other than BMES, where she would spoil them rotten. “Whatever y’all want you can have. Don’t mind ya Ma and Pa”, she would say, giving them kisses on their cheeks and kisses from the candy dish. She became their biggest fans and loved her grandchildren unconditionally, allowing nothing to come before her prince and princess. Anita made it a point to attend school concerts, rugby games, or any other sporting event in which they participated. Nana would be their biggest and loudest cheerleader, even when they played against BMES. What a sight to see, Mother Warrior yelling and coaching her grandbabies from the sidelines to victory (even if they lost, they were always winners). Regardless if it were Sunday dinners, holiday celebrations, and family vacations, Nana would be toe to toe behind her beloveds. There was no question how much she cherished them and the best of her shined through them. She was the root and they were the branches. She explained and repeated the values of strong faith and an ‘I can/I will’ mindset. “What you mean you can’t?!” she would exclaim. ”Can’t, good and
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nice are words that should not belong in your vocabulary.” They held her in the highest regard and when obstacles were faced they would ask, “Do you know who my Nana is?”. She instilled a warrior mentality in them and continued to be a pillar of strength for them; a model citizen, a difference-maker, a barrier breaker, the ultimate encourager of infinite possibilities: Their Nana. In 2008 Mrs. Doherty became Principal of both BMES High as well as the Primary Schools, overseeing the students on both campuses. A devoted Anglican, she always placed God at the pinnacle of her existence. Her firm belief was that without the help of God, she would accomplish very little. She encouraged spiritual enrichment to her staff and students consistently. She believed that corporate worship, prayer, praise, mediation, and reflection, were paramount for living a fulfilling Godly life. The impact and reach of Mrs. D stretched far and wide on a global landscape, and her students prized every grain of knowledge, every word of discipline, and every minute of herself which she poured into them. As Chief Warrior, Anita exemplified the heart of a champion. Even though she battled Rheumatoid arthritis she ruled with an iron fist. Innovative, no-nonsense but compassionate, supportive, and highly respected, Mrs. Doherty was at the forefront of developing the evolved curriculum, that now heralds BMES as the school of choice in the Northern Bahamas, for both academics and athletics. In 2017 Mrs. Anita L. Doherty, laid down her pen, after an astounding 46 years in education to retire. Who would have thought? What would they do without her? Her absence would be felt, as the roaring echoing of “AHHH…SKATTA FATTA MATTA!!” would be absent from the narrow walkways to the hallowed walls of the auditorium. She was indeed a legend. A legend with her own vocabulary. A legend who did it her way. In her years of dedicated service, Mrs. D with her gift of success in achieving excellence, touched and molded the lives of many throughout the archipelago of The Bahamas. Teaching and aiding the navigation of her students was her ministry. It was her purpose. Lux Mentis Lux Orbis invenire: The Light of the Mind, the Light of the World – Discover the Truth This ‘West End Gyal” and phenomenal woman of the soil, has worn many hats and played an integral part in many organizations within The Bahamas, and internationally. Being an avid community leader, Anita was a member of the Pilot Club of Freeport
and held the positions of President from 1987-to 1988 and Governor of The Bahamas District from 2000-to 2001. Anita the trailblazer, was also a Charter Member of the Pilot Club of Lucaya in 2002. While Mrs. D contributed much to Civic Societies, her zeal for sports without a doubt was paramount in her life- and which inspired a nation of athletes. She was a Past President of the Bahamas Amateur Athletics Association (BAAA), where she promoted the talents of Bahamian athletes and accompanied many internationally to CARIFTA, World Games, and The Olympics. She was recognized by the BAAA as an “Honorary” Scholar in 2013 she also served as a member of the Bahamas Association of Certified Officials. In the past, Mrs. D has held the title of President of the Bahamas Netball Association. She was the Secretary of the Grand Bahama Softball Association and in 2005 she was inducted into the Grand Bahama Sports Hall of Fame, and into the Bahamas Sports Hall of Fame in 2011. She served as Treasurer of the Inter Scholastic Sports Club and President of the Grand Bahama Tennis and Squash Club. Among her achievements, she served as a Director and Board
member of the YMCA, a member of the Principals and Vice Principals Association and as Chief Councillor for the City of Freeport from 2005to 2008. She was recognized by the Government at the 25th Silver Anniversary Banquet in 1998 for her contribution to the youth of the nation. She was honored by the Zonta Club of Women “Living Legends” in the same year. In 2020 at the beginning of the pandemic, despite following all protocols, Mrs. Doherty contracted Covid-19 and due to her underlying conditions, she became gravely ill and had to be airlifted to Florida. Despite the toll the virus took on her body, she did what she normally would… fight. Anita pulled through and survived by God’s grace. However, the aftermath of the coronavirus plagued her body and on February 9th, 2022 after struggling with shortness of breath and experiencing a fainting spell, she was admitted to The Rand Memorial Hospital and diagnosed with pneumonia. Anita was later treated and discharged a couple of days later; and despite this setback, she did not miss a day of sharing the Anglican Church’s daily devotions and the inspirational videos from Rev. Angela Palacious with everyone in her WhatsApp contact list.
On Sunday, March 27th, Anita began her day as usual with daily devotions in the family Skipper’s chat and a WhatsApp broadcast of God’s Good News. Later that afternoon, Mrs. D was found unresponsive in her kitchen then shortly there-after rushed to the hospital where she passed away peacefully just before midnight. She has fought the good fight; she has finished the race; she has kept the faith – she has traded her warrior headdress for a Crown of Righteousness … “I have very strong vocal cords. I will row, cajole, do whatever it takes for me to get 100 percent from my students but I have to know what they can take. I have to know when to shout, when to hug and when to give a high five. I’m a hugger. I constantly hug them”. ~ Anita Doherty Embraced in the arms of the Lord, Anita – take your rest! Anita was preceded in death by her sons Sean and Kerry. Left to cherish her memory are: Husband: John Patrick Doherty II; Son: John Patrick III; Daughter-in-Law: Tara; Grandchildren: Sean-Ciaran, Hadyn ; Sisters: Deidre Martin, Candace A Life of Purpose | Anita Louise Doherty |
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deGregory, Eartha Carroll (Laclain), Porche Snell (Andre’); Brothers: Basil, Craig (Lorna), Kim (Dr. Sythela), Peter II (Defayne), Troy (Tanya), Kamaal (Heather), Kazim (Priti) and Peter (Michelle) deGregory, Sean (Sharon) Azeez, Dexter and Derek Wilchombe; Nieces: Melissa Martin-Adderley (Sean), Dr. Alia Campbell, Candace “Jill” Newball (Garvin), Adrianna Carroll, Lesley-Ann Perpall, Janure’ Culmer, Nicole Hopkins (Anthony), Adrianna Simmons (Luciano), Dr. Simone Edgerton, Kelli, Diamond, Nairie, Maliya and Madison deGregory, Aneisa Faria, Karen Sharkey (Aiden), Catherine McNally (Arthur); Nephews: Adam Campbell, Raymond (Shanae) Culmer, Antony Sansone, Kim C.F., Peter III, Dax, Jace, Noah, Nolan and Mesrob deGregory, Dr. Tristan, Cameron and Brandon Carroll, Sasha Amow, Na-Sean and Noah Faria, Conor Doherty; Grandnieces: Koi and Zoe Adderley, Jai Martin, Naomi deGregory, Araya Campbell, Kalani Swaby, Ure Saunders, Daisy, Kate and Nora McNally; Grandnephews: Ace Adderley, Adam and Alijah Campbell, Logan Taylor, Gianno and Greyson Newball, Brody Culmer, Daniel Resto Jr., Shawn Hopkins, Amari Sansone, Charles Saunders III, Luke and Oscar Sharkey, Ernie McNally; Uncle: Sir Orville Turnquest; Brother-in-Law: Dr. Ciaran Doherty, Allison Campbell; Sister-in-law: Dr. Kate Doherty; Cousins Including: The families of Dr. Roop, Michael (Willie), Charles (Betty), Adlai, Ambri (Cherolyn) and Trevor (Devono) Moss, Greta Bain, Jasmine Strachan, Monique (Henry) Hepburn, Karen Marche, Shelley (Edward) Darville, Colin (Anna), Lester, Italia, Lavonda, Bethsheba, Dr. Crystal and Andy deGregory, , Kelsie Ellington, Renee Reid, Jerusha Smith, Jude Barr, Desmond (Amber), 10
| Anita Louise Doherty | A Life of Purpose
Larry (Cindy) Marcella and Denise deGregory, Daphne Miaoulis, Agnes, Maria, Donald, Maxwell, Jerome and Dave deGregory, Dave Foulkes and Family, Wendy Paul and Family, Tommy (Shawn) Turnquest, Caryl Lashley, Michelle (Edward) Fields, Delores Andrews and Family, Sandra Clarke and Family; Other relatives and close friends: Louis Moss and Family, Mikala Moss, Jeffrey deGregory, Kamaal Marche, Dr. Elizabeth Darville, Deborah (Donald) Archer and Family, Cynthia Wells and Family, Silvio Joseph, Siobhan, Shannon and Haile Doherty, Maureen Dolmont, Winifred Rawls, Cherrise Taylor Wayne Smith and Family, Cletis (Tiffany) Sweeting and Family, Judy McCartney, Churchill Tener-Knowles and Family, Katherine (Godfrey) Smith and Family, Loretta ButlerTurner and Family, The deGregoy’s, The Moss’s, The Farquharson’s, The D’Aguilar’s, The Lampkin’s, The Brown’s, The Martin’s, The Culmer’s, The Bostwick’s, The Barrett’s, The Nesbitt’s, The Bruery’s, The Bowe’s, The Morrison’s, Antoinette Carroll, Veronica Grant, Karen Dyall, Lucia Mazoni, Janet Bodi, Bonnie Basden, Dionne Britton, Marva Armbrister and Family, Dr. Winston Forbes, Giselle Pelletier, David Wallace and
Family, Cleopatra (Remiro) Russell, Cecile Thompson and Family, Curt Hollingsworth and Family, Florence Rolle and Family, Daisy Walker, Phenney McPhee, Lulamae Farquharson and Family, Desmond Bannister, Tanya Bowe-Wildgoose, Sandra Mortimer, Cathy Bellot and Family, Eleanor Saunders. Sophia Howden, Samuel Bethell, Anita Osbourne and Family, Linda Lewis, Fontella Brown, Shonete NorvilleSmith, Indiana Cooper, Hon. Obediah Wilchombe, Cynthia Cooper, Sonya Maingot and Family, Lorna Martin, Bishop Laish (Joanna) Boyd, Archdeacon Deacon Keith Cartwright, Dean Harry (Ann) Bain, Canon Curtis (Myrtis) Robinson, Canon Norman (Wendy) Lightbourne, Archdeacon Deacon Earl (Zoe) Hepburn, Fr. Deangelo (Tenessee) Bowe, Fr. James and Rev. Angela Palacious, Rev. Marie Roache- Hepburn, Family of Christ the King Pro Cathedral, Staff, Students and Alumni of FHS, FHAS, BMES, Pilot Club of Lucaya, BAAA, BACO. “We know that there are others, far too many to mention by name. We ask those precious friends and family we have missed to forgive us as this was not intentional.”
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Service
ORDER OF
RECEPTION OF THE BODY | Canon Curtis Robinson
MINISTER: With faith in Jesus Christ, we receive the body of our sister Anita Louise for burial. Our sister was washed in Holy Baptism and anointed with the Holy Spirit. Let us therefore, with confidence, pray to God our Heavenly Father, the Giver of life, that He will raise her to perfection in the company of the Saints. MINISTER: ALL:
The Lord be with you. And also with you.
MINISTER: Let us pray. O God of grace and glory, we remember before you this day our sister Anita Louise. We thank you for giving her to us, her family and friends, to know and love as a companion on our earthly pilgrimage. In your boundless compassion, console us who mourn. Give us faith to see in death the gate of eternal life, so that in quiet confidence we may continue our course on earth, until, by your call, we are reunited with those who have gone before; through Jesus Christ our Lord. ALL: Amen. MINISTER | Opening Sentences Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and I am the life; he who believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and whoever lives and believes in me shall never die.” {John 11: 25-26} The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, His compassion never fails: every morning they are renewed. {Lamentations 3: 22-23} If we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord; so then, whether we live or whether we die, we are the Lord’s. For to this end Christ died and lived again, that He might be Lord both of the dead and of the living. {Romans 14: 8-9} We brought nothing into this world, and we take nothing out. The Lord gives, and the Lord takes away: Blessed be the name of the Lord. {Job 1:21} AS I KNEW HER | Dr. Elizabeth Darville (Friend)
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| Anita Louise Doherty | A Life of Purpose
TRIBUTE | David Wallace (Friend) HYMN | “Jerusalem the Golden” Jerusalem the golden, With milk and honey blest, Beneath thy contemplation Sink heart and voice opprest. I know not, O, I know not What joys await us there, What radiancy of glory, What bliss beyond compare.
They stand, those halls of Sion, All jubilant with song, And bright with many an angel, And all the martyr throng; The Prince is ever in them, The daylight is serene, The pastures of the blessèd Are decked in glorious sheen.
There is the throne of David; And there, from care released, The shout of them that triumph, The song of them that feast; And they, who with their Leader Have conquer’d in the fight, For ever and for ever Are clad in robes of white.
O sweet and blessèd country, The home of God’s elect! O sweet and blessèd country That eager hearts expect! Jesu, in mercy bring us To that dear land of rest; Who art, with God the Father And Spirit, ever Blest.
MINISTER: ALL:
The Lord be with you. And also with you.
MINISTER: Let us pray. Almighty God, we remember before you today your servant Anita Louise, and we pray that, having opened to her the gates of larger life, you will receive her more and more into your joyful service, that, with all who have served you in the past, she may share in the eternal victory of Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. ALL: Amen. THE FIRST LESSON | Wisdom 3:1-5,9 | Read by: Willie Moss (Cousin) READER: A Reading from the Wisdom of Solomon. The souls of the righteous are in the hand of God, and no torment will ever touch them. 2In the eyes of the foolish they seemed to have died, and their departure was thought to be a disaster, 3and their going from us to be their destruction; but they are at peace. 4For though in the sight of others they were punished, their hope is full of immortality. 5Having been disciplined a little, they will receive a great good, because God tested them and found them worthy of himself; 9Those who trust in him will understand truth, and the faithful will abide with him in love, because grace and mercy are upon his holy ones, and he watches over his elect. READER: ALL:
The Word of the Lord. Thanks be to God.
PSALM 46:1-8 | By the Choir THE EPISTLE | 2 Timothy 4:6-8 | Read by: Cynthia Wells (Friend)
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READER: A Reading from the Second Letter of Paul to Timothy. As for me, I am already being poured out as a libation, and the time of my departure has come. 7I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 8From now on there is reserved for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will give me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have longed for his appearing. READER: ALL:
The Word of the Lord. Thanks be to God.
THE HOLY GOSPEL | {All Stand Including The Family)} | John 14:1-6 MINISTER: ALL:
The Lord be with you. And also with you.
MINISTER: A reading from the Holy Gospel According to John. ALL: Glory to Christ our Saviour. Jesus said, ‘Do not let your hearts be troubled. Believe in God, believe also in me. 2In my Father’s house there are many dwelling-places. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? 3And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, so that where I am, there you may be also. 4And you know the way to the place where I am going.’ 5Thomas said to him, ‘Lord, we do not know where you are going. How can we know the way?’ 6Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” MINISTER: ALL:
The Gospel of Christ. Praise to Christ our Lord.
DEVOTIONAL | “’Tis So Sweet” ‘Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus, Just to take Him at His word Just to rest upon His promise Just to know, “Thus saith the Lord.”
I’m so glad I learned to trust Thee, Precious Jesus, Saviour, Friend; And I know that Thou art with me, Wilt be with me to the end.
Chorus: Jesus, Jesus, how I trust Him! How I’ve proved Him o’er and o’er! Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus! O for grace to trust Him more! HOMILY | Canon Norman Lightbourne APOSTLE’S CREED {All stand} MINISTER: Let us with confidence and hope confess the faith into which we were baptised, as we say, ALL: I believe in God the Father Almighty, creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day He rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen. 14
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INTERCESSIONS | Led by: Melissa Martin-Adderley and Dr. Alia P Campbell (Nieces) LEADER:
For our sister Anita Louise , let us pray to the Lord Christ who said, “I am Resurrection and I am Life”
LEADER: Lord, you consoled Martha and Mary in their distress: Draw near to us who mourn for Anita Louise, and dry the tears of those who weep. ALL: Hear us, Lord. LEADER: ALL:
You wept at the grave of Lazarus, your friend, comfort us in our sorrow. Hear us, Lord.
LEADER: ALL:
You raised the dead to life: Raise our sister Anita Louise to eternal life. Hear us Lord.
LEADER: ALL:
You promised paradise to the thief who repented: Bring our sister Anita to the joys of heaven. Hear us, Lord.
LEADER: Our sister Anita Louise was washed in Holy Baptism and anointed with the Holy Spirit: Give her fellowship with all your saints. ALL: Hear us, Lord. LEADER: Anita Louise was nourished with your Body and Blood: Grant her a place at the table in your heavenly kingdom. ALL: Hear us, Lord. LEADER: Comfort us in our sorrows at the death of our sister Anita. Let our faith be our consolation, and eternal life our hope. Silence may be kept. MINISTER: Lord Jesus Christ, we commend to you our sister Anita Louise, who was reborn by water and the Spirit in Holy Baptism. Grant that her death may recall to us your victory over death, and be an occasion for us to renew our trust in your Father’s love. Give us, we pray, the faith to follow where you have led the way; and where you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, to the ages of ages. ALL: Amen. OFFERTORY HYMN | “And Can It Be” And can it be that I should gain An interest 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!
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 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.
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.
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.
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MINISTER: Through your goodness Lord, we have this bread and wine to offer, the fruit of the earth, and the work of human hands. They will become our spiritual food. ALL: All things come from you, O Lord, and of your own do we give you. Blessed be God forever. Amen. THE EUCHARISTIC PRAYER MINISTER: ALL:
The Lord be with you. And also with you.
MINISTER: ALL:
Lift up your hearts. We lift them up to the Lord.
MINISTER: ALL:
Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. It is right to give God thanks and praise.
MINISTER: It is right, and a good and joyful thing, always and everywhere to give You thanks, Father Almighty, everlasting God: Through Jesus Christ our Lord, who rose victorious from the dead, and comforts us with the blessed hope of everlasting life. For to your faithful people, O Lord, life is changed, not ended; and when our mortal body lies in death, there is prepared for us a dwelling place eternal in the heavens. Therefore we praise you, joining our voices with angels and archangels and with all the company of heaven, who forever sing this hymn to proclaim the glory of your name: ALL: Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might; heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest, blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest (All kneel) MINISTER: Sovereign Lord and Father, to You be glory and praise forever. In your boundless wisdom you brought creation into being; in your great love you fashioned us in your image; in your tender compassion you sent your Son, Jesus Christ, our Saviour, to share our human nature; in the power of the Holy Spirit, He overcame the power of sin and death and brought your people to new birth as first fruits of your new creation. On the night that he was betrayed He took bread, and when he had given thanks to you, He broke it and gave it to his disciples and said: “Take this, and eat it: this is my body which is given for you, do this for the remembrance of me.” And after supper he took the cup of wine: and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them and said: “Drink this, all of you: this is my blood of the new covenant, which is shed for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Whenever you drink it, do this for the remembrance of me.”
Therefore, Father, according to the command of your dearly beloved Son,
ALL:
We remember His death. We proclaim His resurrection We await His coming in glory.
MINISTER: And we offer You, Father, our sacrifice of thanks and praise. Send your Holy Spirit on these gifts of bread and wine that they may become the Body and Blood of your Son, Jesus, our Lord and Redeemer. As we partake of this holy food of new and unending life, may your Holy Spirit establish as a royal priesthood with the Blessed Virgin Mary, and all your sons and daughters who share in your eternal inheritance; through Jesus Christ our Lord. With Him and in Him and through Him, by the power of the Holy Spirit, we worship you, Father Almighty, with all who stand before you in earth and heaven, in songs of everlasting praise: 16
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ALL:
Blessing and honour and glory and power be yours for ever and ever. Amen.
THE LORD’S PRAYER MINISTER: As our Saviour has taught us so we pray: ALL: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your Name; your kingdom come; your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Save us from the time of trial and deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours now and forever. Amen. THE BREAKING OF THE BREAD MINISTER: ALL:
God of promise, you have prepared a banquet for us. Happy are those who are called to the supper of the Lamb.
THE INVITATION MINISTER: ALL:
The gifts of God for the people of God. Our souls will feast and be satisfied and we will sing glad songs of praise to Him.
THE AGNUS DEI ALL:
Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world: grant her rest. Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world: grant her rest. Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world: grant her rest eternal.
DURING THE ADMINISTRATION HYMN | “Hark, My Soul” Hark, my soul, it is the Lord; ‘Tis thy Saviour, hear his word; Jesus speaks, and speaks to thee, ‘Say, poor sinner, lovest thou me?
‘Mine is an unchanging love, Higher than the heights above, Deeper than the depths beneath, Free and faithful, strong as death.
‘I delivered thee when bound, And, when bleeding, healed thy wound; Sought thee wandering, set thee right, Turned thy darkness into light
‘Thou shalt see my glory soon, When the work of grace is done; Partner of my throne shalt be: Say, poor sinner, lovest thou me?’
‘Can a woman’s tender care Cease towards the child she bare? Yes, she may forgetful be, Yet will I remember thee.
Lord, it is my chief complaint That my love is weak and faint; Yet I love thee, and adore; O for grace to love thee more!
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SOLO | Jay Mitchell HYMN | “Immortal, Invisible” Bishop Michael Eldon School Hymn Immortal, invisible, God only wise, In light inaccessible hid from our eyes, Most blessèd, most glorious, the Ancient of Days, Almighty, victorious, thy great name we praise.
To all life thou givest, to both great and small; In all life thou livest, the true life of all; We blossom and flourish as leaves on the tree, And wither and perish; but naught changeth thee.
Unresting, unhasting, and silent as light, Nor wanting, nor wasting, thou rulest in might; Thy justice like mountains high soaring above Thy clouds, which are fountains of goodness and love.
Great Father of glory, pure Father of light, Thine angels adore thee, all veiling their sight; All laud we would render, O help us to see ‘Tis only the splendour of light hideth thee.
POST COMMUNION PRAYER MINISTER: ALL:
The Lord be with you. And also with you
MINISTER: Let us pray. ALL: Almighty God, we thank You that in Your great love You have fed us with the spiritual food and drink of the Body and Blood of your Son Jesus Christ, and have given us a foretaste of Your heavenly banquet. Grant that this sacrament may be to us a comfort in affliction, and a pledge to our inheritance in that kingdom where there is no death, neither sorrow nor crying, but the fullness of joy with all Your saints; through Jesus Christ our Saviour. Amen. THE COMMENDATION | The Very Rev’d Harry J. L. Bain {All stand} THE RUSSIAN CONTAKION | By the Choir MINISTER: ALL:
Lord have mercy. Christ have mercy.
MINISTER: ALL:
Lord have mercy. Christ have mercy.
ALL: Our Father, who art in heaven hallowed be thy Name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen. MINISTER: Let us commend our sister Anita to the mercy of God our Maker and Redeemer. Deliver your servant, Anita O Sovereign Lord Christ, from all evil, and set her free from every bond, that she may rest with all your saints in the eternal habitations; where with the Father and the Holy Spirit you live and reign, one God forever and ever. ALL: Amen. MINISTER: Into your hands, O merciful Saviour, we commend your servant, Anita. Acknowledge, we humbly beseech you, a sheep of your own fold, a lamb of your own flock, a sinner of your own redeeming.
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ALL:
Receive her into the arms of your mercy, in the blessed rest of everlasting peace, and into the glorious company of the saints in light. Amen.
MINISTER: ALL:
Rest eternal grant to her, O Lord; And let light perpetual shine upon her.
MINISTER: ALL:
May her soul and the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.
MINISTER: ALL:
Alleluia, Christ is risen. The Lord is risen indeed. Alleluia.
MINISTER: ALL:
Let us go forth in the name of Christ. Thanks be to God.
{Members of the congregation are kindly asked to remain in their places until the Altar Servers, the choir, the Clergy, the Casket and the bereaved family have processed out of the Church. Thank you.} RECESSIONAL HYMN | “The Strife is O’er” Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia The strife is o’er, the battle done; Now is the Victor’s triumph won; O let the song of praise be sung: Alleluia! Death’s mightiest powers have done their worst, And Jesus hath His foes dispersed; Let shouts of praise and joy outburst: Alleluia!
On the third morn He rose again Glorious in majesty to reign; O let us swell the joyful strain: Alleluia! Lord, by the stripes which wounded thee From death’s dread sting thy servants free, That we may live, and sing to Thee. Alleluia!
{As the body is borne from the church, the following sentences may be said:} Christ is risen from the dead, trampling down death by death, and giving life to those in the tomb. The Son of Righteousness is gloriously risen, giving light to those who sat in darkness and in the shadow of death. The Lord will guide our feet into the way of peace, having taken away the sin of the world. Christ will open the kingdom of heaven to all who believe in his name, saying, “Come, O Blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you.” Into paradise may the angels lead you. At your coming may the martyrs receive you and bring you into the Holy City, Jerusalem. THE COMMITTAL {THE COLUMBARIUM AND REMEMBRANCE GARDEN} {The following anthems may be said.} I heard a voice from heaven, saying, “Write this: Happy are the dead who die in the faith of Christ! Henceforth,” says the Spirit, “They may rest from their labours; for they take with them the record of their deeds. Man born of a woman has but a short time to live. Like a flower he blossoms then withers; like a shadow he flees and never stays. A Life of Purpose | Anita Louise Doherty |
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In the midst of life we are in death; to whom can we turn for help, but to you, Lord, who are justly angered by our sins? Lord God, holy and mighty, holy and immortal, holy and most merciful Saviour, deliver us from the bitter pains of eternal death. You know the secrets of our hearts: In your mercy hear our prayer, forgive us our sins, and at our last hour let us not fall away from you. MINISTER: In sure and certain hope of resurrection to eternal life through our Lord Jesus Christ, we commend to Almighty God our sister, Anita, and we commit her body to the ground, earth to earth, ashes to ashes, dust to dust. And we beseech You in Your infinite goodness to give us grace to live in Your dear love and to die in Your favour that when Your well beloved Son shall come again in judgement both this our sister, Anita, and we ourselves may be found acceptable in Your sight. Grant this for the sake of Your Son Jesus Christ our Lord. ALL: Amen. MINISTER: ALL:
The Lord be with you. And also with you.
MINISTER:
Let us pray.
{One or more of the following prayers may be said.} MINISTER: Almighty God, with whom still lives the spirits of those who die in the Lord, and with whom the souls of the faithful are in joy and felicity; we give you heartfelt thanks for the good examples of all your servants, who, having finished their course in faith, now find rest and refreshment. May we, with all who have died in the true faith of Your holy Name, have perfect fulfilment and bliss in your eternal and everlasting glory; through Jesus Christ our Lord. ALL: Amen. MINISTER: Merciful God, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ who is the resurrection and the life: Receive that blessing which your well beloved Son shall then pronounce: “Come, you blessed of my Father, receive the kingdom prepared for you from the beginning of the world.” Grant this, O Merciful Father, through Jesus Christ, our Mediator and Redeemer. ALL: Amen. MINISTER: Grant, O Lord, to all who are bereaved the Spirit of faith and courage that they may have strength to meet the days to come with steadfastness and patience; not sorrowing as those without hope, but in thankful remembrance of your great goodness and in the joyful expectations of eternal life with those they love. And this we ask in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. ALL: Amen. MINISTER: ALL:
Rest eternal grant to her, O Lord. And let light perpetual shine upon her.
MINISTER: ALL:
May she and all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.
MINISTER: The Lord bless her and keep her, the Lord make His face to shine upon her and be gracious to her, the Lord lift up His countenance upon her and give her peace. ALL: Amen.
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GRAVESIDE HYMNS HYMN | “The Day Thou Gavest” The day Thou gavest, Lord, is ended, The darkness falls at Thy behest; To Thee our morning hymns ascended, Thy praise shall sanctify our rest.
We thank Thee that Thy church, unsleeping, While earth rolls onward into light, Through all the world her watch is keeping, And rests not now by day or night.
As o’er each continent and island The dawn leads on another day, The voice of prayer is never silent, Nor dies the strain of praise away.
The sun that bids us rest is waking Our brethren ’neath the western sky, And hour by hour fresh lips are making Thy wondrous doings heard on high.
So be it, Lord; Thy throne shall never, Like earth’s proud empires, pass away; Thy kingdom stands, and grows for ever, Till all Thy creatures own Thy sway. HYMN | “Abide With Me” Abide with me; fast falls the eventide: the darkness deepens; Lord, with me abide: when other helpers fail, and comforts flee, help of the helpless, O abide with me.
I fear no foe with Thee at hand to bless; ills have no weight, and tears no bitterness. Where is death’s sting? Where, grave, thy victory? I triumph still, if thou abide with me.
Swift to its close ebbs out life’s little day; earth’s joys grow dim, its glories pass away; change and decay in all around I see: O thou who changest not, abide with me.
Hold thou thy Cross before my closing eyes; shine through the gloom, and point me to the skies: heaven’s morning breaks, and earth’s vain shadows flee; in life, in death, O Lord, abide with me.
I need thy presence every passing hour; what but thy grace can foil the tempter’s power? Who like thyself my guide and stay can be? Through cloud and sunshine, Lord, abide with me.
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My Love You never said I’m leaving, You never said goodbye, You were gone before I knew it, And only God knows why. A million times I needed you A million times I cried If love alone could have saved you You never would have died. In life I loved you dearly, In death I love you still. In my heart you hold a place That no one could ever fill. It broke my heart to lose you, But you didn’t go alone. For part of me went with you, The day God took you home. Love, your RAG PRINCE forever, John
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THE SON OF A WARRIOR How lucky am I. To be the son of a mighty warrior. My mother’s one and only child. Her pride and joy. From the very beginning, she began to mold and shape me. My rite of passage had begun. Can you imagine having my mother’s undivided attention? My mother from my very first memory taught me how to be strong fierce and determined. She always reminded me that in life you have to pave your own way. In order to succeed, you had to be courageous and well-balanced. Be unique, honest, respectful, loyal, independent, and stand out in a crowd of others. Yes, to be that eagle that soars high and mighty alone. I was constantly reminded that I most certainly could never be a duck. Whenever life’s journey presented me with challenges I would look to her for guidance and assurance. The options given were always quite clear and concise. Obstacles in life were like hurdles on a track; to be faced head-on and tactfully jumped over. Avoiding them by going around, was never an option. I wasn’t able to use the word can’t in my vocabulary. Apparently, she told me “it’s not a real word”. My mother was there for me throughout my entire life. She shaped me into the man I am today and I am so proud to be her son. I, like every other person she encountered, was made to feel so special except in my case, I truly believe I was. My mother was my everything. I am left to mourn her passing and now feel completely lost without her. I will find the strength to carry on knowing that everything I am was created and molded by her. There will always be a part of her that lives on in me. I am my mother’s child. I am a mighty warrior. I am her protege. Thank you mummy for all that I am. I will continue to try and make you proud in all that I do. I will remain that mighty eagle. “It takes a female to have a baby It takes a woman to raise a child It takes a mother to raise them correctly It takes a warrior to show them how to change the world” Love always, ‘Lil John A Life of Purpose | Anita Louise Doherty |
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OUR QUEEN WARRIOR THE ONE AND ONLY How do you have words for a woman with a life so large? You make them count. Thoughtful. Meticulous. Certain. There are many people that teach us one lesson… There are few people that have the wisdom and greatness to teach us many. Her life was our blessing.
“You only go round this sucka one time, give it all the gusto you got!” Those of us that knew and loved you will be sure to appreciate each sunrise and sunset. We will continue to run fast and learn more. We will speak with sure love and intention. We will choose the adventure and buy the dress. We will forgive those that have pain and broken hearts and we will dance as if the music is the blood flowing through our veins. Maya Angelou wrote about these Phenomenal woman Anita Louise you were a Phenomenal Woman Extraordinaire I’ve yet to meet another like you.
Theresa and Peter deGregory daughter You are surrounded in the arms of your heavenly family now… I’m certain Sean and Kerry will be the I freeze in fear when I realize the enormity first to embrace you. I know you continue to be surrounded in so much love and your heart of the shoes we have to fill. Then I look around… and realize she is still here. In ev- remains full and that brings us peace. ery single one of us that have crossed paths You are so deserving to relish in eternity; for with her. In all the outpouring of love I living this earthly life as it is meant to be lived; so read I realize her impact. Her change. I feel the love she had for each and every one selflessly. of us. We are better because of her influence. She simply surpassed lines of divide, Rest in peace my beautiful sister. You did well. useless evils and futile human discourse. You are our forever Queen warrior and you are so very admired and loved. She rose above it all and our world is a better place because of her. She will pursue and live on in all of us that knew her. And we will determinedly carry on her legacy.
I am comforted in knowing that the VERY best parts of her remain in her beloved son and warrior prince and princess whom she loved so very dearly. Please continue to love them and give them momentum. Her love lies heavy in their hearts now. But when the pain subsides, I know they will carry her message proudly; head held high and they will “swish” like Nana taught us Each and Every day. She will continue to walk with us. And we will continue to live our lives to the fullest as you taught us,
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~ Agape ~ Your daughter-in-law Tara “Fate whispers to the warrior You cannot Withstand the storm”and the warrior whispers back “I am the storm” - author unknown
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NANA My Nana was and is the strongest woman I know. From a young age she taught me how to fight and persevere through anything life threw at me. She was the greatest role model and taught me all of the most important things in life, especially being a woman. She instilled in me so many lessons and slowly passed on her passion for sports to me and my brother. Whilst teaching me all of the most important things in life she never failed to show me how loved I was by her and that I will forever be her princess. My Nana was always there for me and never failed to send me countless messages in the morning about God’s grace. She was one of the most outgoing, passionate, lively, and loving Grandmother and no one will ever be able to replace such a prominent person in my life. My Nana is the type of person you never forget due to her enormous personality, which is something I loved so much about her. My Nana managed to pass down a lot of aspects of herself onto me. I see her in me when I look in the mirror and feel her overpowering personality flowing through my blood, and I am so proud of each and every aspect. I couldn’t have asked for a better Nana and I will forever be lost without her but I know that God took her for a reason and she will always be with us. I love you Nana, forever and always. Thank you for the countless things you have taught me and I promise to make you proud. Love Your Princess, Hadyn Rane
W
here do I begin with words when they cannot begin to describe the feelings and emotions I have for you. From a young age, my nana taught me invaluable life lessons and was always there for me, through all of my life’s highs and lows. I can remember her shouting from the sidelines at my soccer games, softball games, rugby matches, track and field days, and everything else in between. She always taught me to fight my hardest, to give my all, and to persevere head-on through any tough situation I was faced with. It’s the warrior mentality. I know my nana will forever reside in my heart and soul, and I will do everything in my power to keep her legacy alive. She was my biggest role model and I can only hope that in my lifetime, I may amount to something as great as she was, and always will be. The memories we made, the laughs we shared, the love you gave to me…none of it will ever fade from my memories. I will cherish every moment we shared in this life together until we meet again in the next. I love you Nana. Thank you for everything you have done for me, our family, and so many others that you have touched in this lifetime. I may not have gone to BMES…but one thing I know for sure, I am a Warrior for life. Love you, Sean-Ciaran A Life of Purpose | Anita Louise Doherty |
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OUR NITA
In the comics Clark Kent aka Superman was born on Krypton. However, Superwoman aka Anita Doherty, our sister didn’t herald from Krypton, but was born in Nassau and raised in the Wild West End. Anita as the oldest, sister set the bar very high for her other siblings, she showed us that anything was possible. Whatever you wanted to achieve was possible, because the word CAN’T did not exist in her vocabulary. The language of Siblings is not words but meanings People say having a big sister is like having an enemy that you CAN’T live without, But to us our eldest sister Anita was: The Friend you couldn’t live without The Teacher you couldn’t live without The Coach you couldn’t live without The Mother you couldn’t live without The Confidant you couldn’t live without But never an Enemy I guess we were too afraid as she was Stronger and Faster and that combination you don’t want to make an enemy! It is strange how growing up the days were long but looking back the years went fast… it seems like yesterday we were kids, and we knew from then you were bound for greatness. We also knew the secret of your strength was your boundless love. We are grateful and blessed that she was such an awesome team leader. We loved her and she will continue to live in our hearts. Love you, your Sisters & Brothers-
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TRIBUTE TO ANITA IN ACADEMIA Fun loving, boisterous, cheeky, articulate, beaming with personal integrity, and a model of measured decision-making with appropriate wisdom, Anita’s life was full and remarkable. The result: beloved by generations of students, whilst staying the fears of parents and the tears of students. We would joke that teaching is the only job you would steal supplies from home to take to work! Fresh perspectives point to empowerment as teachers decry ‘give us the tools and we will finish the job’. An administrator who understood that you could not reach every child, but as an optimist to get up every morning and try. So inspiring a few students thought they may be able to jump off the roof and fly, however realizing it could hurt, nobody did. IN SPORTS – CONTINUUM Anita had to contend with medical infusions to combat rheumatoid arthritis she had acquired in the 1990s. Prior to that, it was a delight to hang with her as she competed in various activities, tennis, softball etc. Even though we all could play different sports, watching a sibling as a spectator, was always self fulfilling in some ways. SOCIALITES By the time she became completely dedicated to Bishop Michael Eldon School her charisma was evident. Empowerment manifests itself in many forms. In the 1960s we always knew Father Eldon, being the priest at the West End Mary Magdalene Church. Having your resident priest providing confessions, and general counselling, becoming the Bishop can unleash a dedication that has little bounds. Always involved in many civic organizations, she exhibited a talent for administrative contributions that was infective. A tireless work ethic, rain or shine, good health or sick, at home or abroad, let us remember her as the woman with her mother’s name-sake, mama Theresa! So after we cry, maybe close our minds, maybe filled with emptiness and turn our backs, OR we can do what she’d want: smile, open your eyes, love and go on! SIBLINGS CHANT TO ANITA So good night sweet sis until we greet Pictures of you we will always keep It will be a constant reminder until we meet And we will walk together on heaven’s street
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WEST END AUNTY & BEST FRIEND You were more than just Aunty Nita, you were one who had a major role that helped shaped my life, my children’s life and even at some points, my parents life! Never held your mouth, always said what was needed to be said. You stood your ground on what you believed and knew was right. You never picked sides, you listened to all and made the best decisions on being fair. As I grew older, this alone made me appreciate you! You were not just the leader of a school, you were a leader of and within the Grand Bahama community. The way you have taught people education, right from wrong, discipline, respect, and love! The Warrior family will always remember “Atcha fatta matta“ but will always appreciate the actions that followed after those words, because for each of us that heard those words, those following actions are what made us all better people to this day. Because you were such a huge part of our family, You always stated to us as how you are “the Wes End daughter” who came to lunch every Sunday to sit, eat and enjoy the company of family. On the Sunday before you passed, you came by the house and mingled with us, you were so ecstatic to see your Godson Kalem, as he had grown into a man since you had last seen him. We were all so very happy to see you, taking for granted your physical presence, not knowing nor thinking that this would be the last day we would see your smile and hear your voice as the following Sunday you would be called home to Our Father. For the Sundays that you couldn’t make it to lunch, I would deliver the lunch to you and we would trade words and laughs along with Uncle John. I will truly miss those few minutes in which I was privileged to be the one who would deliver your meals and church booklets. As our family does, the entire Grand Bahama shares with the Doherty family, the sadness and feelings on this enormous loss, but we will always have the best memories that will live inside each of us forever. I hope you had the chance to have made your rounds in heaven, make sure to tell Pa & Grammy how we miss them and that their “Wes End Daughter” has arrived! Although we miss you already, we take comfort in knowing that you are in the arms of our loving God and I pray that your soul may Rest In Peace. We will always love you, Donald & Debbie d’Von, Davonia, Kalem, d’Von II, and d’Azjah
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AUN’NITA In 1976, Laurel Thatcher Ulrich once wrote, “well behaved women seldom make history”, and we are most confident she meant you Aunt Nita. In a time and in places where men dominated, YOU made a name for yourself. YOU pushed the boundaries and made history… HERSTORY! “You related to Nita ey? “Mrs. Doherty is ya Aunty hey?!” “Boy ya’ll can’t hide!”. YOU, made a legacy for us to follow and be proud of. Breaking the glass ceiling you picked up the pieces and built a bridge and led others over. YOU carried us on your shoulders, but you were our prize. We could not have asked for a better role model. You cultivated in us what God made in you and we knew that all that you did was for the betterment of us. “Can’t” ?! What profanity! “AHHHTT, AAHT GATDAMMIT, DO IT AGAIN!”. “MY CHIRREN!”. YOU, Aunt Nita showed us we could be and do anything, if we just put in the work. We joked (snake toe), we danced (soca until our feet hurt), we prayed (until we heard God speak). YOU were a confidant when no one would listen. A protector when no one knew to shield. YOU weren’t just our Aunt but a second Mother. YOU were one of the ingredients to the glue that kept us together. YOU displayed strength and tolerance through love and respect . YOU demonstrated kindness even when it was not deserved. YOU encouraged, YOU loved, YOU will be missed. We know you’re giving hugs out in heaven. WE love you. “The Chirren”. Nieces and Nephews
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FAMILY I first met Anita over 50 years ago and shortly after she had been awarded an athletic scholarship to study Physical Education at Ulster University in Northern Ireland. At this time, a student fundraising group at the sister college of Queen’s University Belfast held an annual charity parade called Rag Day ( Raise and Give ), which involved outlandish floats and hundreds of students in crazy costumes. At the 1969 event Anita was crowned Rag Queen and my older brother John was crowned Rag King. Anita was strikingly attractive and elegant and unsurprisingly, John was immediately captivated. This pivotal event led to the close relationship between the DeGregory and Doherty families which endures today. The profuse tributes paid to Anita online are a clear demonstration of her contribution to the community of Grand Bahama, and how much her advice and friendship was valued. Many highlight her unique personality, her remarkable record of achievement, her exacting standards, and the affectionate yet firm personal approach which she employed so effectively to encourage and inspire others. Anita was clearly a gifted teacher, who could command attention and convey authority while delivering encouragement with humour, and providing her pupils with an early insight into the interrelationship between hard work, discipline, and achievement. How many lives changed direction and followed a rising arc as a direct result of her influence? The ability to inspire a disparate group of individuals to work hard and achieve while retaining their affection and respect are defining qualities of leadership. Our own memories are of Anita’s sparkling smile, her determination, her contagious laughter, and her spirit undimmed by the many health challenges she faced. We also remember Anita’s continuing care and close contact with our Mother Kathleen who so looked forward to her annual visits with Lil John whenever possible. These visits took place after Anita had somehow found the inner strength to emerge from the tragic loss, at such young ages, of her other two children, Sean and Kerry. Over many subsequent years we had the privilege of sharing Anita and John’s deep pleasure as they watched their talented son John grow up and ultimately gift them a wonderful daughter in law Tara, and two wonderful grandchildren Sean Ciaran and Haydn Rain. Our eldest daughter Karen remembers how much it meant to her that Anita, representing the Bahamian Doherty family, made the long journey to Ireland to attend her wedding. Karen added that Anita was very caring and thoughtful, gave the warmest, deepest hugs ever, took time to listen, and wasn’t afraid to disagree with mum (Kate) when she discussed getting her ears pierced! She and Catherine also remember Anita’s encouragement of good appetites to ensure good hips, and vividly recall the unforgettable experience of Anita teaching them how to dance the Electric slide at Port Lucaya. ( As a mere spectator at the time, I can confirm that Anita’s style and charisma made her an immediately recognisable, mesmerising presence on the dance floor ). Conor also benefited from from experiencing Anita’s parenting skills during our early visits to Freeport. He recalls one breakfast occasion with Lil John and Adam when Adam made the strategic mistake of declaring that he did not wish to finish his cornflakes. The word volcanic came to mind. Suffice to say the cornflakes were finished. Anita during her many visits to Ireland came to occupy a special place in the affection not just of our family but also our circle of friends. One of Anita’s last visits to Ireland was for the 100th birthday celebration of Auntie Nellie, a great family affair in which Anita revelled, giving her the opportunity to introduce Tara and Sean Ciaran to their Irish family. Anita will be especially remembered by our children and grandchildren, Conor; Karen and Aidan (Sharkey), with Luke and Oscar ; Catherine and Arthur (McNally), with Ernie, Daisy and Nora ; Gerard and Maureen McCarry, Maire Liberace and family, Kathleen & Gary Rocks, Siobhan Hensby, Helen and Sean O’Halloran, Anne and Danny Stewart, Brian and Mary McLister, Edmund and Ursula Elliott, and Peter and Felicity McGrath. Anita was an inspirational Bahamian woman whose influence and importance extended across the Atlantic Ocean to Ireland. She was a talented athlete, a gifted educator, and a constant, reassuring presence, a touchstone in our family circle. To have seen Anita in recent weeks is now a precious memory for us. We will miss her more than words can describe
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| Anita Louise Doherty | A Life of Purpose
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
We, the family, express our heartfelt thanks and gratitude to the many relatives and friends who have been a source of comfort and strength, and who have shown their kindness either by the flowers you’ve sent, your cards, telephone calls, visits, but most of all, your prayers, during the loss of our loved one. May the Almighty God bless and preserve you is our prayer.
PALLBEARERS: Sean Azeez Adam Campbell Kim C.F. deGregory Adam Rohan Campbell Colin deGregory Lester deGregory Jeffrey deGregory Louis Moss Kamal Marche
RESTVIEW MEMORIAL MORTUARY & CREMATORIUM #11A East Coral Road P.O. Box F-42312 Grand Bahama, Bahamas Phone: 242-373-1115 Phone 2: 242-373-1471 Mobile: 242-727-4852 Fax: 242-373-3005
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| Anita Louise Doherty | A Life of Purpose
HONORARY PALLBEARERS: Basil deGregory Craig deGregory Kim deGregory Peter deGregory Troy deGregory Peter deGregory Kamal deGregory Kazim deGregory Andre’ Snell Michael Moss Ciaran Doherty
Provided by SIDDA Communications Group Tel: 394-BOOK (2665) Mobile: (242) 818-3478 Email: info@siddagroup.com Nassau, N.P. Bahamas