THANKSGIVING & HOMEGOING CELEBRATION For the Life of the Late
Brandon
BRADLEY BRAYNEN “The Grill Master”
SUNRISE: 25th April, 1977 SUNSET: 11th July, 2016 AGED: 39 years Service Held At: TRINITY METHODIST CHURCH Frederick Street Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas Saturday, 23rd July, 2016 at 10:00 a.m. OFFICIATING: Reverend William Higgs ASSISTED BY: Rev. T. G. Morrison & Other Ministers of Religion ORGANIST: Kendrick Coleby INTERMENT: Lakeview Memorial Gardens & Mausoleum John F. Kennedy Drive Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas SERVICES RENDERED BY: Bethel Brothers Mortician Nassau Street Nassau, New Providence, The Bahamas
Obituary Celebrating The Life & Adventures Of
Brandon Bradley Braynen “I did it my way”
(To be read in silence) Thirty nine years ago on the island of New Providence a bouncing baby boy was born to Bradley & Jenniffer. It was on the 25th April a little boy full of life came in the spring season and forever changed the lives of this couple. His name was Brandon Bradley Braynen, the namesake of his father and the firstborn of Bradley and Jenniffer. He came very close to being named Archibald, which is the name his paternal grandmother offered, but fate would have it that the name Brandon would stick which in one of its variant forms means “Prince”. Brandon was indeed the Prince of his life and from a very early age sought to do things “his way”. He was an independent thinker, some would say stubborn, but he always knew what he wanted to do and he did it. Brandon completed his primary school years at the Willard Patton Primary school and then went on to The Government High School to commence seventh grade. He was later transferred to C.R. Walker Secondary School where he completed his high school education. During his time at C.R. Walker, he worked hard to maintain a grade point average above “C”. He had good relationships with many of his teachers including Ms. Donna Miller, Ms. Seymour and Mrs. Helen Miller who served as homeroom teachers and taught him French & English Language, subjects he loved and excelled at in addition to Science. He was involved in youth civic organizations including the Key Club, Duke of Edinburgh, Awana and Royal Ambassadors where he played in the band. Brandon was appointed a Prefect in his final years at C.R. Walker and was voted the first President of the school’s inaugural Student Council body. While managing his academic, political and civic life at high school, Brandon was also enrolled in the Police Cadet program. Perhaps his involvement in this organization played a pivotal role in providing him with additional discipline, physically, mentally and academically as the program also prepared him for the national BGCSE examinations. He was grateful for his involvement as a Cadet which also provided him with a level of financial independence as a result of the stipend that was paid. He took pride in purchasing his own clothes, shoes and other items that he desired. An adventurous child by nature, Brandon always sought to do things his way. His parents recall the many occasions that Brandon would run away on escapades of his own with no care in the world. He would sometimes be returned by a police officer who knew who his parents. He spent many of his young days with his father’s younger brother – Jason; although they were uncle and nephew, Jason and Brandon grew up as brothers. They had many exploits together including the summers in Eleuthera and times in Washington D.C. with Aunty Nicky, his aunt and Jason’s older sister. Family members often joked that they were so close that they dated the same girls, sometimes taking turns. Brandon spent so much time with Jason that he referred to his grandfather as daddy and his late paternal grandmother as mommy, presumably following Jason’s lead. Following high school, Brandon’s professional career spanned across the retail, hospitality, banking, aviation and manufacturing industries. He spent much of his professional career in hospitality due to his love for dealing with people. All who crossed his path would agree that he always possessed a generous and personable (sociable) personality. He liked to be around people and was an entertainer who knew how to enjoy himself at any party. He was also widely known for his affection, especially his desire to give or receive a hug. His most memorable professional years were at Bahamian Kitchen with his employer and friend – Michael Brice and Pot Pourri – his last place of work with his employer and friend Keith Oliver. At Bahamian Kitchen, he loved helping in the kitchen when necessary and serving as a bartender. At Pot Pourri, he was always glad to be getting his T-shirt orders for “his clients”. Even in his final days, his dedication to serving his clients was apparent; he was concerned about having to take time off and noted that his clients were calling him. Brandon also enjoyed his weekends hanging out with the Dozer Softball Team. He was always known to have a good time and especially enjoyed his favorite pastime – grilling. The Prince was especially proud of his affiliation with the Southside Boys and the community effort aimed at helping the children in the Farm Road Constituency and he would encourage people to come out to support their fundraisers. His relation with the Freemason Lodge was very low-key as he would only advise of his affiliation but would never give out further information. Seven years ago, Brandon experienced a life changing event with the birth of his daughter and “mini me” Kaitlyn Madison Skye. He was very particular about her name and referred to her as his little princess. Like Brandon, Katy always says
what is on her mind and she always let her father know what she was thinking. She kept him “in check” so to speak. He always wanted her to be around her cousins, his parents and siblings so that she could know her family and connect with her roots. Katy was always glad to be around her family members and more especially her beloved father. Brandon in turn doted on his daughter and she was his everything. When he took ill the week before he died, Brandon was determined to overcome his health challenges in order to always be there for his little princess. While being attended to in the hospital on the 5th of July, 2016, he told his younger sister - Arinthia that he didn’t know he could be so spiritual. He spoke of how he had conversations with God asking him to preserve his life; primarily for the sake of his daughter. Little did anyone know – but God, that he was in the final days of his life. Brandon had been looking forward to spending some time recuperating with his favorite cousin – Ann Pinder in Freeport but this was never to be. On the 9th of July, 2016, Brandon’s father rushed him to the hospital after he complained of the pains in his stomach becoming worse. It was discovered that his ulcer had perforated within him. Surgery was the only resort; however, Brandon was unable to pull through. After being in intensive care for a day, Brandon’s breath and spirit left his body on the 11th of July, 2016. He was surrounded by his parents, siblings, Uncle Jason, daughters, nieces and nephew and special friend Claudette. His presence and personality will be sorely missed by those who love him and have the memories of his life to remember him by. In all, we are comforted by the fact that Brandon lived his life to the fullest and in the words of Frank Sinatra, he did things “His Way”. He is survived by his: Parents: Bradley & Jenniffer Braynen; Daughter: Kaitlyn Madison Skye Braynen; Bonus Daughter: Teneille Walker; Sisters: Arinthia S. Komolafe and Anthinear E. Carroll; Brothers: Jason Braynen, Anton & Marcus Braynen; Brothers-in-law: Emmanuel O. Komolafe and Rev. Dietrich J. Carroll; Nieces: Morgan E.A. Komolafe and Alexandria G.E. Komolafe; Nephews: Joshua O. Komolafe; Special Friend: Claudette Walker; Grandparents: James Arthur Braynen and John Harvey of South Florida formerly of St. Michael Parish, Bridgetown Barbados; Uncles: Scott, Joel & Dana Braynen, Theodore Kimani, Anthony Pratt, Cleveland McPhee, Brian, Dwayne, Dion & Quinton Harvey, Anthony Major, Andrew Gilbert and ASP Roosevelt Curry; Aunts: Angela Morley, Sheree Cooper, Nicole Braynen-Kimani, Dulcie Pratt, Deena McPhee, Judith, Julianna & Nekera Braynen, Johnniemae Gilbert, Deanne Cox, Joeanna Belle-Curry, Una, Yvette, Kimberley & Monique Harvey (USA) and Gwen Major (USA); Great Aunts: Maureen Pustam, Bloneva Daniels, Myrtle Murphy Ellamae Forbes, Lillith Moore and Rebecca Espinal; Great Uncles: Fred Murray and Bertram Murray; Godparents: Evelyn Smith & Family, Whitfield Moss & Family, Delores Simms & Family, Anthony (Farmer) Seymour and Family, Phillip Gardener and Emory Lockhart; Affiliations: Dozer Pros Softball Team, Southside Boys, St. Anne’s Lodge 1751, Valley Boys Junkanoo Group, Avid supporter and unflinching fan of the Miami Dolphins Football Team and the Boston Celtics Basketball Team; Numerous Cousins including: Sean Gay and Desmond Bethel, Joy Othello, Kathleen Gay, Sherika and Twila Othello, Sherie Moxey, Carmay Stubbs, Soja and Tasheno Moxey Kristen, Forresttall & Kamryn Dorsett, Eren Cooper, Jennifer Freeman, Bethany & Armando Smith, Amire & Aryah, Ceonn Edwards (Gregory), Courtney Amber & Winsett Alexander Cooper, Erica, Chloe, Joshua & Hayden Braynen, Arianne,
Arielle, Averee & Thayne Braynen, Damari, Ayanna & Ayelle Burrows; Julian, Joyce, Liam, Juleah & Gabriel Francis, Linda, Lynden & Lynari Braynen; Nicholas, Ian, Emile, Nile & Aden Kimani, J’Hayden & J’Hordan Braynen, Michael (Krizia), Cedenyo (Deanna), Nicolette, Dario, Jayden & Mikhael Pratt; Zhivago (Apryl) & Shenika McPhee, Ann (Othnyiel) Pinder, Christinee Rolle, Clinton & Ashley Gilbert, Kareem, Karmela, Karmin, Keishon & Jane Cox, Angel Rahming, Natasha Davis, Kelia, Demitri, Dorian & Olivia Duncombe; Brian Harvey Jr., Brian Harvey III, Takeia, Shania & Symphanie Wallace, Brooke & Christopher Brown, Bryon Harvey, Creswell, Camrion, Jourdan, Alexiou & Camrhea Munroe, Sherwin & Caelin Braynen, Crestenea,
Tamiko & Hayden Johnson, Rheanna Armbrister, Adrian (Shambula) Pinder, Ryesha, Kendall Major, Okyra, Tjasa, Jennifer Harvey and Oscar Rolle; Numerous Relatives and Friends including: the Family of Fred Murray, the Family of Bertram Murray, the Family of the late Charles Murray, the Family of Maureen Pustam, the family of the late Frederick Cooper, Alfred & Diana Cooper, the Family of Bloneva Daniels, the Family of Myrtle Murphy, the Family of Ellamae Forbes, the Family of Lillith Moore, the Family of Rebecca Espinal, the Family of the late Percy Sturrup, Dame Joan Sawyer & Family, Veronica Marshall & Family, Charlene Cambridge and Family, Keva Campbell and family, LaRoma and Dudley Seifert, the Family of the Aaron Knowles Sr., the Family of Shirley Christie including Bridgette Musgrove, the Family of the late Doralee Roach including Derwin Roach, Dena Cofield & Family, Mr. Isaac & Florence Komolafe and Family, Rev. Anthony & Rev. Cheryl Carroll and Family, Rev. William & Mrs. Lauren Higgs and Family, John & Gaylene Fowler and Family, Rev. T.G. Morrison and Family, Trinity Methodist Church Family, Zion Baptist East & Shirley Streets Family, Pastor Delton & Elder Anna Ellis, Pastor Dave & Almara Ellis, Pastor Dave Burrows and the BFM family, Bishop Delton Fernander and the New Destiny Family, Pastor Audley & Mrs. Swain and the Grace Bible Fellowship Family, Esther Armbrister & Family including Veronica, Prim e Minister Perry G. Christie and Family, Gary & Cleopatra Christie & Family, Earl & Cheryl Cash, Hon. Philip “Brave” Davis and Mrs. Ann Marie Davis; Mr. Neville and Mrs. Manita Wisdom; Fred Taylor and family including Monique Taylor, Gary & Cleopatra Christie & Family, Millicent Pratt & Family including Deborah and Michelle Sears; Carmie Thompson & Family including Cordell Thompson, Lilly Simms & Family; Henry Rolle & Carolyn Wallace-Rolle & Family, Keturah & Edward Ferguson and Family, Rev. Randy & Jacquelyn Fraser, Patricia Ann Cleare & Family, Judith Thompson & Family, Alceita Knowles & Family, Bianca Ferguson & Family, Andrea Jenoure & Family, Kermit & Anishka Strachan, Carol Young & Family, Mario Smith & Family, Philip & Brenda Sands, Paula Eneas & Family, Donald & Susan Demeritte, Maxine Newton & Family, Tamischa & Kevin Richardson, Donna Moxey & Family, Lynn & Terry Nottage and Family, Dora Saunders & Family, the Forbes family including Deborah and Helen, Dellareese Taylor & Family, Donald & Deborah Tomlinson, Michael Fernander, Michael Brice, Keith Oliver & Family, Erin Green, Lynette Saunders, Lavonia Strachan, Bojana Mijatovic, Victoria & Anthony Miller & Family, Nadine Moncur & Pastor Rickeno Moncur & Family, Winston “Churchill” Rolle & Family, Senator T. Ricardo Whylly & Family, Kay Francis & Pia Rolle, Ian Ford & Family, Jeff & Gina Pinder & Family; Gregory & Linda Thompson & family, Hilda Charlton & Family, Janet Carey & Family, Nicky Morley & Family, Michelle Burrows & Family; Mae Johnson & Family, Joseph Johnson & Family; Paula Gibson & Family, Patricia Williams-Johnson & Yvonne Williams, Desiree Gibbs & Family, The Zonta Club of Nassau including President Ruth Ann Rolle, Past President Bernadette Gibson and Latoya Rolle, Hon. Allyson Maynard-Gibson, Hon. Kenred Dorsett; Hon. Kendal Major, Cheryl Bazard, Hon. Khaalis Rolle, Hon. Michael Halkitis, Sen. Gregory Burrows, Irene Thompson & Family, the Management & Staff of the Port Authority Dept., Class of ’94 C.R. Walker, Lyford Cay Property Management, Management & Staff of Department of Immigration, Members, Management & Staff of Public Parks and Public Beaches Authority. If we have omitted anyone’s name please forgive us – it is unintentional
Order of Service PROCESSIONAL | “Abide With Me” | The Clergy FINAL VIEW | The Family CALL TO WORSHIP SCRIPTURAL SENTENCES | Rev. William Higgs
I love you Uncle Brandon, I miss you so much I know you’re in a better place now Oh how I love you Uncle Brandon
PRAYER OF INVOCATION
Joshua
OPENING HYMN | Farther Along Tempted and tried, we’re oft made to wonder, Why it should be thus all the day long, While there are others living about us, Never molested tho’ in the wrong.
When death has come and taken our loved ones It leaves our homes so lonely and drear; Then do we wonder, why others prosper, Living so wicked year after year.
Farther along, we’ll know all about it, Farther along, we’ll understand why, Cheer up my brothers, live in the sunshine We’ll understand it all by and by. “Faithful to death” said our loving Master, A few more days to labor and wait; Toils of the road will then seem as nothing, As we sweep thru that beautiful gate.
When we see Jesus coming in glory, When He comes from His home in the sky; Then we shall meet Him in that bright mansion We’ll understand it all by and by.
NEW TESTAMENT READING | Psalm 34: 1-8 | J’Hayden Braynen (Cousin) CONDOLENCES | Keith Oliver (Pot Pourri) ASP Roberto Goodman & Sgt. Geneice Barr (Dozer Softball Team) Anthony Richardson (Southside Boys) SOLO | Clinton Gilbert (Cousin)
I love Uncle Brandon I will never forget him He is watching over us He is in our hearts He was a kind Uncle I loved his hugs When I was sad he was there for me You made me happy. Love Alexandria Grace
OLD TESTAMENT READING | 1 Corinthians 15:50-58 | Kaitlyn M. S. Braynen (Daughter) Morgan E. Komolafe (Niece) Alexandria G. Komolafe (Niece) SOLO | Urvan Moxey (Friend of the Family) TRIBUTE | Scott R. Braynen (Uncle) HYMN | Glad Reunion Day
Uncle Brandon I thought of him as love; He was kind and funny, And never left me with a sad face, And I will never forget you. I love you, I love you, I love you dear so, I thought of you like a father you know I know you’re in a better place, Oh how I miss your joyful face, You are in my heart, Oh you had a great part. Love Morgan
There will be a happy meeting in heaven I know When we see the many loved ones we’ve known here below Gather on the blessed hilltops with hearts all aglow That will be a glad reunion day 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 There within the holy city we’ll sing and rejoice, Praising Christ the blessed Savior 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. 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
EULOGY | Rev. William Higgs PRAYERS FOR THE FAMILY
God Took Another Angel Home By Christina Wallace You laid there in that hospital bed, you tried so hard to hold on. God was calling you home. He needed another angel to help pour out the rain. Tears have fallen, hearts where shattered, but it was time for you to fly home. Your loved ones came to say their last goodbyes, to tell you they loved you, and that you will be forever missed. As your heartbeat stopped, and your eyes slowly closed, God took another angel home. Love Uncle Harvey
COMMENDATION THE LORD’S PRAYER
It was never enough to just call you Brandon, my sisters and I would always call you Cousin Brandon. You deserved that title. Every time I went downtown in the night I was always happy to see you. You would give me a big hug and ask me if I was straight and tell me to be safe. If I was with a guy, you would always tell them a word or two. You will truly be missed. Your cuz, Arianne
BENEDICTION RECESSIONAL HYMN | 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. Chorus: When I leave all trouble and care, I will 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 we 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.
Always a shoulder to lean on or cry on. Always a friend to talk to. I could hear you now telling me stop dealing with these stupid people. Always had my Friday happy hour hug. I could see all of us now sitting outside of Pirates talking fool. The tears haven’t stopped since I heard. You were truly a good friend. My birthdays will never be the same. The grill master. Rest In Peace Brandon. Jennifer Thompson
Good Times I’ll never forget all the summers you spent in Eleuthera and the good times we all had clowning around at the “headquarters” aka Grammy and Grandpa’s house in Kennedy Sub. Feels like yesterday! We will miss you Cousin Brandon; what a sweet, funny and kind spirit you were. Eren Amanda
Sometimes in life you just was having fun a few days ago. Now the person has passed on into another life. Brandon, you were always with the big smile and opened gates. I always will remember you after each game Dozer Pro played you will come and say “I’m not gay but I want a hug”. I will miss those hugs dude. The fun grill out and jokes we shared. Rest In Peace Brandon. Thanks for printing our shirts. Roberto Goodman
Graveside Hymns IT IS WELL When peace, like a river, attendeth my way, When sorrows like sea billows roll; Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say, It is well, it is well, with my soul.
FARTHER ALONG
Tempted and tried, we’re oft made to wonder, Why it should be thus all the day long, While there are others living about us, Never molested tho’ in the wrong.
Chorus: It is well, with my soul, It is well, with my soul, It is well, it is well, with my soul.
Chorus: Farther along, we’ll know all about it, Farther along, we’ll understand why, Cheer up my brothers, live in the sunshine We’ll understand it all by and by.
Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come, Let this blest assurance control, That Christ has regarded my helpless estate, And hath shed His own blood for my soul.
When death has come and taken our loved ones It leaves our homes so lonely and drear; Then do we wonder, why others prosper, Living so wicked year after year.
My sin—oh, the bliss of this glorious thought— My sin—not in part but the whole, Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more, Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul! For me, be it Christ, be it Christ hence to live: If Jordan above me shall roll, No pang shall be mine, for in death as in life Thou wilt whisper Thy peace to my soul. But, Lord, ‘tis for Thee, for Thy coming we wait, The sky, not the grave, is our goal; Oh trump of the angel! Oh voice of the Lord! Blessèd hope, blessèd rest of my soul! And Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight, The clouds be rolled back as a scroll; The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend, Even so—it is well with my soul.
“Faithful to death” said our loving Master, A few more days to labor and wait; Toils of the road will then seem as nothing, As we sweep thru that beautiful gate. When we see Jesus coming in glory, When He comes from His home in the sky; Then we shall meet Him in that bright mansion We’ll understand it all by and by.
Gentle giant, kid whisperer, calm, cool, humble! I’m gonna miss you! Your cuz, Kelia
Tribute “It Isn’t About How He Died, But How He Lived, It’s Positive” I still can’t believe that you’re gone. I keep looking at the door, hoping that at any given moment you’d walk right in and say “Hi mummy, how are you, how was your day?” Then you’d put your arms around me and ask me with that big smile on your face, “did your take your medicine?” I will miss that big smile that always melted my heart. I will miss our little trips to the grocery store when you will purposely walk through the aisles yelling mummy even though you knew that I wouldn’t answer you as grown as you were. You’d tease everyone about a lot of things then give them a big hug with a smile. That is the kind of person you were — warm, generous and big-hearted. Even though you teased us all, it was never mean-spirited; you did it to make us laugh besides pointing out the obvious. So I am not at all surprised that you grew up to be such a compassionate, understanding and forgiving young man. I am so proud of you; So very proud. When I was unwell and was going through very difficult times, you told me, “You’re gonna be fine, Mommy. I got your back.” I am quite certain you were affected by my health, but you never showed it. You were the best partier in this family. Even as I worry about your partying ways like any parent would, I knew I had to let you experience what manhood was. You met and made a lot of friends in the process, all of whom experienced firsthand what an amazingly wonderful, giving and loving person you are. Every person you met had a story about how funny, helpful, loyal and huggable you are. You had this amazing gift of making every person you meet instantly comfortable. And even as you partied, you dutifully fulfilled your promise to God in showing love and showing us how to love. This you gave freely and openly to anyone willing to be your friend. You loved unconditionally — both family and friends. You loved me even as I faltered, disappointed, and nagged you — and for that I am eternally grateful. Forever blessed. There were so many things I want to say but can’t because I am still trying to understand just what happened to you. Beyond the great big smile was a great big heart whose capacity to love is greater than any bullet or hate can destroy. You lived life to the fullest and loved deeply, this legacy will be carried on by all of us you left behind; with lots of hugs our lives are forever changed because of you. No mother should ever have to bury her child. Living life without your smile and hugs is even harder. You were my smile and hugs, you are my Bunny. The overwhelming love and support I received from your friends, their respective families and even strangers has helped me through these painful times. I felt your hugs from every friend of yours who came up to me. And our family is stronger because of you. This is entirely your doing. This is because everyone loves you. Thank you for loving me, thank you for the 39 years. Thank you for your hugs and kisses. Thank you for enduring it all. Thank you for letting me see your new dance for the valley boys and making sure I came out to support. Thank you for being so understanding. Thank you for being so forgiving. Thank you for the honor of being called your mom. Thank you for being you. I love you very much. My pride, my joy, my love. I miss you so much it hurts. Until we see, hug and kiss each other again, my big Bunny, Bunny. Love always, Mom
I Love You Daddy My dad was a sweet and loving man who loved a lot of people and they loved him back. I know he would be proud of me whatever I do in life. He will be watching over me. I love you daddy from your little angel, Kaitlyn
To Brandon My Second Dad From the age of 5 I’ve known you. You held my hand teaching me right from wrong. All the memories we’ve shared over 12 years was amazing. You will catch me when I fall and tell me I will be ok. Every time I think of you my heart aches. I’ll forever miss you. I know you’re watching over me. Until we meet again. Your Loving Daughter Tenielle
My Big Brother Can’t believe you’re gone. Even while standing over your dead body I prayed for a miracle. I wish I could have seen it coming and prevented it, but I was faced with my own human frailty knowing that God is all powerful and He knew your appointed time. You always used to tell me, “it was me and you” before our other siblings came along so we should stick together. We had great times together growing up, vacations in Freeport and Florida. We attended church, primary school and high school together...we even plotted to run away from home a few times! You would always tell me...Tia you too scared (smile). Nevertheless, I’m grateful for the many years we had together. My big brother has flown away and truly left me in charge. I’ll miss the times you would call and check on me…saying, “Hey boo whassup? Just calling to see how you doing…tell Manny I said hi and kiss my nieces and nephew for me” Basketball & Football Sundays will never be the same by mommy and daddy again. No more armchair commentating and coaching from you. Ironically Tim Duncan announced his retirement the day you died…always thought you resembled him. Emmanuel said you had a good mid-range jumper just like him! The “Saturday Ballers” (Emmanuel, Kareem, Dietrich, Chris, etc.) will miss their Center/Power Forward. I can’t promise you that I will support the Miami Dolphins, but I’ll pray they win at least one season game for you. Can’t promise you the Boston Celtics will return to their former glory, but I’ll always remember that you said it’s the greatest franchise in NBA history, so I’ll concede because you said it. I can’t promise you that I’ll support the Valley Boys, but I’ll hold a special place in my heart for them because I know you loved them and I won’t get to scream Brandon at Junkanoo anymore when I see you rushing joyfully against the Saxons. However, I promise you that we will take care of Katy and now she is as much my child as she was yours. Thank you for blessing us with your “mini me”. Rest In Peace big bro. Say hello to Grammy Cynthia and Grammy Hilda...what better company could you ask for? Love always Tia
My Nephew By Blood, But Brother By Love Heaven has called you today, spirited away like a dove And now my head aches, echoing with lost words Thoughts of what from my mouth you should’ve heard We spoke briefly, sharing a laugh or two after that terrifying Tuesday I told you to take it easy and we’ll get together the next day… Because I was away… But now it’s too late, for your time has come, Unspoken words, I am sure everybody has some I should haves & I wish I’ds are probably there too, But lasting forever are my memories of you, Of us, as we grew… From young boys to men, my best man, my best friend Two peas in a pod, like twins, which we would hear without end. We grew together, fought together, laughed together, cried together, From day one, my right hand, like the little brother I had never On my wedding day I remember you saying, “bro, it’s not too late” You were full of witty humor, kept us laughing from day to day But still you stood by me, as you always did all my life And you always asked, “how’s the family, and if they were giving me strife” And likewise I’d ask, “how’s Katie? And if you’d bought your gun or big crocodile dundee knife. You were a good father, despite the obstacles that stood in your way And I only wish that I could’ve been around more after my wedding day Posting your demise on Facebook caused an instant influx of comments Which testifies to the life you lived and hearts you touched in every moment ….of your existence! From birth, to your transference… And since you’re not physically with us, you’ve transformed into an angelic excellence Remember the PLP androsia shirts and the straw hats The wide leg jeans and the Cotler slacks The image that will forever be imprinted in our minds, As it defined.. Who we were…twins from different mothers but one of a kind My nephew..no no, my brother you were, you are, because you’re still very very near Not far… For you still linger in our hearts, therefore we will never be apart! Love Jason
I did It My Way By Frank Sinatra Tribute to our Son, Sibling & Father
A
nd now the end is near And so I face the final curtain My friend, I’ll say it clear I’ll state my case of which I’m certain
And now, as tears subside I find it all so amusing To think I did all that And may I say, not in a shy way
I’ve lived a life that’s full I’ve travelled each and every highway and more, much more than this I did it my way
“Oh no, oh no, not me I did it my way” For what is a man, what has he got? If not himself then he has naught To say the things he truly feels And not the words of one who kneels The record shows I took the blows And did it my way Yes, it was my way
Regrets I’ve had a few But then again too few to mention I did what I had to do And saw it through without exemption I planned each chartered course Each careful step along the by-way And more, much more than this I did it my way Yes, there were times I’m sure you knew When I bit off more than I could chew But through it all when there was doubt I ate it up and spit it out I faced it all And I stood tall And did it my way I’ve loved, I’ve laughed, and cried I’ve had my fill, my share of losing
A Tribute To My Buddy I have known your Uncle Brian for more the Thirty years, but about five years ago you simply appeared out of nowhere and we instantly connected. You became my “lil brother”, we shared countless hours hanging out long after everyone went home. I will never forget our time together Brandon at Pirates, Babalo among other spots. But the one we laughed about the most is when we stopped at “Dirtys” for chicken snack one night and I forgot you and pulled off. `1Despite that you laugh it off and we were buddies again. I will miss our conversations on various topics, but you were knowledgeable beyond your years. I surely will miss your favorite phrase “Gimmie a Hug” your smile and your genuine love for life and people. The Dozer Pros definitely going to miss you being at the gate greeting us after every game, your encouraging words in defeat and congratulatory words in victory. You are a unique individual buddy, so happy we connected albeit briefly. Thank you for being so supportive whenever I faced difficulties, always optimistic. It hurts to say goodbye Brandon, my last text to you was “how you feeling bro”, you never answered me!! Buddy you left me with an indelible mark in my heart and I will cherish your memory forever. So long buddy, R.I.P. Brandon. Dozer Nation will surely miss you bro! Your Pal For Life, Jeff
Missing You Loss hurts like hell, and it’s something that each and every one of us will experience at some point in our lives. Everything that lives must also die and I am learning to understand this. I am lost for words. I want to talk about our days at Grammy house under the tamarind and guinep tree and playing under the porch or our early teen years in auntie house in the grove. Every single memory that we have ever made floods my mind. My heart is so broken that it’s hard to swallow I’ve never felt pain like this before and I’m lost for words. I’m here writing this and it’s hard to see through the tears. I will miss you so bad but you know that I love you because I never missed any opportunity to tell you no matter how many times we spoke in a day. Your Shorty Ann
Dear Big Cuz, There’s so much I want to say, so many parts of your story that I want to tell and share with others. You were so many different things to so many people, that if 100 biographies were written on your behalf, no two books would be alike. My earliest memory of you goes back to Taylor Street. I can still remember seeing you showing off the latest dance move of that time, don’t remember what it was called, but your natural charisma was just so evident—this was also the day I realized I could not dance. As young cousins, you and I were never really that close as everybody just gravitated to those in their age groups—you, Anne, Clint & Jason, then Tia, BJ, & myself, and so on—but as we started to come of age you slowly, subtly, ingratiated yourself with me. We began to have more and more in common like Junkanoo and……..Junkanoo (we both know what else I want to say), although for the life of me I don’t know why you had to be the only black sheep in this Saxon family— forever the contrarian. Over the years our encounters increased in frequency and randomness, cus you just know too much people. During Annie’s wedding, I was once again reminded of your charisma as we danced at your sister’s wedding; you, graceful as usual, me, not falling down. That night after the wedding we relaxed by the pool where you carried on the longest conversation with this visitor and his wife. I was always amazed at your knowledge of such a wide range of topics. You cud sit and talk with kids and scholars alike, more than holding your own with both. However people’s memory of you may differ, these things are universally undeniable—you were journeyman, gentleman, man of many talents, the epitome of well-roundedness. I cried when word of your passing came; thereby, making you, to date, the only man I have ever cried for. But you can take that smirk off of your face right now because my tears were not strictly due to your expiration, but more so for the pain I knew it would bring to those who loved you most….and boy did we love you. Thinking of you now just puts a smile on my face as I reminisce on the good times we had. I thank God for the time he allowed us to have with you and pray that he guides you onto your next phase. Rest in my peace my brother and please don’t make my Grammy talk too much. Love, Kareem
Farewell T
he final farewell to all my family Dozer Pros, Southside Boyz, Valley Boyz and friend. Life was about knowing your purpose and what role or how you impacted other people lives. I know I may have left some heart aching because of an early departure. Don’t focus on my death but the times we share together, my smile my kind words, my grilling, my jokes and my support to all of you. The world is so real we often prepare for life when a new baby enters the world but not most of us make preparation for death. I was a seed planted and nurtured by my parents. You guys shine sunlight on me and rained showers of blessings upon me. My roots were always grounded in good soil which enabled me to extend my branches at length to touch each heart that now mourns. Although the winds may have sway me I stood firm in my pursuit for excellence. I never would have imagined my leaves would whither so quickly and the strong bark fell of my firm trunk. Guys, I left behind a seed which I know with your help she will develop in 3 stages. Caterpillar, cocoon and into a beautiful butterfly. I love you all. Lotz of HUGS! Love Brandon Written by Roberto Goodman
Message of Gratitude We extend heartfelt thanks to our family, Friends and colleagues for sharing our grief And consoling us in our time of sorrow. Your prayers, telephone calls and condolences, And other sympathetic gestures gave us strength And courage to carry on. *The Family*
PALLBEARERS Dozer Softball Team
Southside Boys
HONORARY PALLBEARERS Brian Harvey Sr. Joel Braynen Clinton Gilbert Marcus Braynen Brian Harvey Jr. Julian Francis Creswell Munroe
Scott Braynen Dana Braynen Kareem Cox Jason Braynen Bryon Harvey Lynden Braynen Camrion Munroe
Dwayne Harvey Dion Harvey Anton Braynen Emmanuel O. Komolafe Dietrich Carroll Keishon Cox Nicholas Kimani
Funeral Service Entrusted To:
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