Solemn Evensong, Sermon and Benediction in Celebration for the Life and Service of
Born: July 26th, 1929 Died: February 7th, 2021 Age: 91 years Held at: St. Agnes Anglican Church Baillou Hill Road Nassau, N.P., Bahamas Sunday 21st February, 2021 at 5:00 p.m. “If after I depart this vale, you ever remember me and have thought to please my ghost, forgive some sinner and wink your eye at some homely girl.” Henry Louis Mencken 1880-1956
Officiating: The Venerable Keith N. Cartwright The Reverend Fr. Rodney Burrows Organist: Mr. Preston Ferguson
My Tribute to Dad
A LIFE WELL-LIVED & WELL-LOVED “Rivers do not drink their own water; trees do not eat their own fruit; the sun does not shine on itself and flowers do not spread their fragrance for themselves. Living for others is a rule of nature. We are all born to help each other. No matter how difficult it is…Life is good when you are happy; but much better when others are happy because of you.” Pope Francis The 26th day of July, 1929 was an auspicious day in the home of Samuel and Cornelia Williams, when they joyfully celebrated the birth of their second son, Carleton Winston. Born in Bain Town, this multi-talented self-starter with elephant-like recall was blessed with vision and talent in abundance. An Air Traffic Controller, Accountant, and entrepreneur extraordinaire, he introduced the McDonalds franchise to the Bahamas, and later complemented it with an ownership interest in the Coca-Cola franchise. In thankfulness for his personal and business success, he committed himself to a life of service and giving. Upon entering his office on Market Street, one could not miss the prominent display of Luke 12:48 “For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more”. This was his true North – the fixed direction of his moral compass, from which he never wavered. He wove the adage into the fabric of his daily life, a life of extreme generosity, humility, and service to others. Infinitely passionate about sponsoring the education and employment of as many Bahamians as he could assist in one lifetime, he did so quietly and purposefully while mentoring countless others with whom he eagerly shared his inexhaustible knowledge and wisdom. So learned was he that his grandchildren playfully dubbed him “Coogle” (the Carleton version of Google). His was a mind that never took the day off, and took an extra lap on Sundays. Fittingly, Coca-Cola founded the Carleton Williams Caribbean Bottling Company Scholarship to sponsor the secondary education of students in need of financial assistance requiring them also to be involved in community and extra-curricular activity. But of course, behind every driven man is a formidable woman and on the 3rd day of November, 1955 he
married Katherina Pinder, to whom he lovingly referred as “K.W.” in his early writings even prior to their nuptials, and with whom he shared the next 65 years of his life until the early evening of February 7, 2021. Against the backdrop of a beautifully setting sun, he passed peacefully from this world after sharing a relaxed lunch with his wife, a quiet, committed faithful force for good, much like her husband. Together they built, supported, and raised up generations of Bahamians. In so many ways Dad showed us the meaning and importance of family, sparing nothing to ensure that we were always well-cared-for, provided for, and protected. As children in boarding school in Toronto, we knew with the certainty of the ever-present snowfall that we could rely on the arrival of a black limousine periodically as Dad and Mom came to collect us and all of our friends for weekends of feasting, and pampering, particularly since we did our best convincingly to maintain the appearance of starving students. A devoted grandfather, “Gramps” attention shifted noticeably away from the Board room to reading to, and cooking for, his infant grandchildren. By the time that Seve was one year old, he knew that he and Gramps were responsible for the men’s work of collecting the Miami Herald every Sunday from Sabre Drugs. Dad said that his grandchildren were the prettiest babies that he had ever seen, and Tatum received her first rose from him on the day she was born. By the time she turned two, Tatum would get up at the crack of dawn so that she would be ready when Gramps came to pick her up for early morning Mass one day each week. She would sit at the front door, one leg crossed, knowing that Gramps would there at the same time every time. School pickups were his exclusive domain and each day, before the school bell rang, Gramps would be waiting with hot McDonalds McNugget Happy Meals. To them, he was the Second Coming as he is now. Having moved abroad early in their lives, Seve and Tatum travelled back and forth regularly to collect their food packages from Gramps and extra cash which Grammy would faithfully press into their hands on the way to the airport. They were wellmannered enough to make a pretense at protest. Sunday lunch was a weekly fixture for our family. Wherever you were, whether coming from Church or rolling in from the night before, you were expected to be there and not to be late. These gatherings required attendance and participation, and sometimes took on the appearance of Board meetings. The Chairman served faithfully and effectively for his lifetime, and that seat is now vacant.
My real education resulted from long evenings sitting with Dad on the wall outside of our home at Trade Winds, where we would discuss anything and everything, including boys. The exchange would continue from 6:00 each morning when Dad and I took our morning jog outside of the Gym Tennis Club. Dad would package wedges of cold sweet oranges in two baggies so that we would have refreshment after pounding the pavement. He thought of everything! But that is where I came to appreciate the depth of his spirit of giving, his flawless unwavering values, and how his mind worked differently from most. I now know that I was in the presence of an uncannily evolved soul, a supernaturally generous spirit. While I was always challenged by our often spirited exchanges, he counselled but never argued. I did. He called me “Wonder Woman”, while exemplifying the virtue of staying grounded. Wednesday, January 13 this year was not an unusual day until 12:45 pm when my mobile phone pinged with a WhatsApp message from “Dad”. Having playfully encouraged him for years to use the App, I was no less than thrilled to see that he had at last taken up the challenge. He said simply, “I received your message” - his response to my WhatsApp message sent on November 17, 2019 recounting the details of my weekend in Monaco. I immediately replied “Who is this imposter? “ By this single digital manoeuvre, Dad, at 91, was able to check “master WhatsApp” off of his to-do list and move on to the next item. So proud of him! Dad served on a plethora of charitable and commercial Boards and Committees including The Salvation Army-his personal favourite, The Crippled Children’s Committee, Trustee for The Anglican Diocese Pension Fund, St. Agnes Vestry, Holy Cross Vestry, The Police Promotion Board, The Central Bank of The Bahamas, The Hotel Corporation of The Bahamas, Republic International Bank of New York International, Safra Bank International (now Bank J. Safra Sarasin (Bahamas) Ltd.), New Providence Development Co. Ltd., The Lyford Cay Property Owners Association, Bahamas First General Insurance Company Ltd., Caribbean Bottling Company (Coca-Cola), Pickett Foods Limited (McDonalds), Finance Corporation of Bahamas Limited, Automotive and Industrial Distributors Ltd., The Air Transport Licensing Board, Bahamas Development Corporation, Town Planning Committee,
Mideci Investments Limited, and Seve Limited. At the ripe old age of 50, he earned a Masters Degree in Business, a testament to the discipline for which he was so well-known. In recognition for his herculean service to the betterment of humanity, he received the Others Award, the Salvation Army’s Highest International Award; the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce Businessman of The Year Award, and the Commonwealth of The Bahamas Silver Jubilee Award and the Unsung Hero Award. Titled a Paul Harris Fellow by Rotary Club International, his continuing delight was evident when, flanked by two of his closest friends, the late Timothy Baswell (T.B.) Donaldson and the late Livingstone Basil (L.B.) Johnson, he was inducted as a Commander of The Most Excellent Order of The British Empire (CBE) by another of his closest friends, then Governor General Sir Orville Turnquest acting on behalf of Her Majesty the Queen. Their lives had come full circle and the boys were back together again! His was a well-travelled life for business, including as a delegate to the Far East Government Mission in Hong Kong, Tokyo, and Taiwan; and on frequent family vacations which were carefully selected for the education and enjoyment of his family. He was an avid tennis player and a member of the Gym Tennis Club for most of his life. We are proud and grateful to have had this enormously present and prescient, other-worldly gentleman and scholar to guide and prepare us for life’s meanderings, and we are thankful that he accomplished so much for so many, for we expect to pass this way only once. We were comforted by the illusion that he seemed infallible but God, in His infinite mercy, called his servant home peacefully as he slept. What a joyful awakening he must have enjoyed! And what a treasure to have him now to guide us with the wisdom of the angels. Fare thee well, dear Dad. Rest peacefully… Love you love you love you Debi
ORDER OF SERVICE INTROIT HYMN | The King Of Love My Shepherd Is –No: 476 CPWI
The King of love my Shepherd is, Whose goodness faileth never; I nothing lack if I am His, And He is mine for ever.
In death’s dark vale I fear no ill With thee, dear Lord, beside me; Thy rod and staff my comfort still, Thy cross before to guide me.
Where streams of living water flow My ransomed soul He leadeth, And where the verdant pastures grow, With food celestial feedeth.
Thou spread’st a table in my sight; Thy unction grace bestoweth; And O what transport of delight From thy pure chalice floweth!
Perverse and foolish oft I strayed, But yet in love He sought me, And on His shoulder gently laid, And home rejoicing brought me.
And so through all the length of days Thy goodness faileth never: Good Shepherd, may I sing thy praise Within thy house for ever
Priest: O Lord, open thou our lips. All: And our mouth shall shew forth thy praise. Priest: O God, make speed to save us. All. O Lord, make haste to help us. Priest: Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost; All: As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. Priest: Praise ye the Lord. All: The Lord’s Name be praised.
PSALM 91 1 Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. 2 I will say of the LORD, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” 3 Surely he will save you from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence. 4 He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. 5 You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day, 6 nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday. 7 A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you. 8 You will only observe with your eyes and see the punishment of the wicked. 9 If you say, “The LORD is my refuge,” and you make the Most High your dwelling, 10 no harm will overtake you, no disaster will come near your tent. 11 For he will command his angels concerning you
to guard you in all your ways; 12 they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone. 13 You will tread on the lion and the cobra; you will trample the great lion and the serpent. 14 “Because he loves me,” says the LORD, “I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name. 15 He will call on me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him. 16 With long life I will satisfy him and show him my salvation. Rest eternal grant unto his soul O Lord, And let light perpetual shine upon him.
OLD TESTAMENT LESSON | Wisdom 3:1-9 Read by Mr. Idris Reid Reader: A reading from the Book of Wisdom, Chapter 3 verses 1 to 9 But the souls of the just are in the hand of God, and no torment shall touch them. They seemed, in the view of the foolish, to be dead; and their passing away was thought an affliction and their going forth from us, utter destruction. But they are in peace. For if before men, indeed, they be punished, yet is their hope full of immortality; chastised a little, they shall be greatly blessed, because God tried them and found them worthy of himself. As gold in the furnace, he proved them, and as sacrificial offerings he took them to himself. In the time of their visitation they shall shine, and shall dart about as sparks through stubble; they shall judge nations and rule over peoples, and the LORD shall be their King forever. Those who trust in him shall understand truth, and the faithful shall abide with him in love: Because grace and mercy are with his holy ones, and his care is with the elect. Reader: The Word of the Lord. All: Thanks be to God.
OFFICE HYMN | There’s A Wideness in God’s Mercy No:350 CPWI
1.There’s a wideness in God’s mercy, Like the wideness of the sea; There’s a kindness in His justice, Which is more than liberty. There is welcome for the sinner, And more graces for the good; There is mercy with the Saviour; There is healing in His blood.
3. For the love of God is broader Than the measure of the mind; And the heart of the Eternal Is most wonderfully kind. If our love were but more faithful, We should take Him at His word; And our life would be thanksgiving For the goodness of the Lord
2.There is no place where earth’s sorrows Are more felt than up in heaven; There is no place where earth’s failings Have such kindly judgement given. There is plentiful redemption In the blood that has been shed; There is joy for all the members In the sorrows of the Head.
Priest: All:
Let my prayer be set forth in thy sight As the incense, and let the lifting up of my hands be an evening sacrifice.
MAGNIFICAT All:
MY soul doth magnify the Lord : and my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour.
For he Hath regarded : the lowliness of His hand-maiden.
For behold, from henceforth : all generations shall call me blessed.
For He that is mighty hath magnified me : and holy is His Name.
And His mercy is on them that fear Him : throughout all generations.
He hath shewed strength with His arm : He hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.
He hath put down the mighty from their seat : and hath exalted the humble and meek.
He hath filled the hungry with good things : and the rich He hath sent empty away.
He remembering His mercy hath holpen His servant Israel : as He promised to our forefathers, Abraham and his seed, for ever.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son : and to the Holy Ghost;
As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be : world without end. Amen.
Priest: All:
Let my prayer be set forth in thy sight As the incense, and let the lifting up of my hands be an evening sacrifice.
NEW TESTAMENT LESSON | Revelation 7:9-17 Read by Mr. Felix Stubbs, Chairman of The Salvation Army Reader: A reading from the Book of the Revelation to John Chapter 7 verses 9 to 17
9A fter this I looked, and there was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, robed in white, with palm branches in their hands. 10 They cried out in a loud voice, saying, ‘Salvation belongs to our God who is seated on the throne, and to the Lamb!’11 And all the angels stood around the throne and around the elders and the four living creatures, and they fell on their faces before the throne and worshipped God, 12 singing, ‘Amen! Blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and honour and power and might be to our God for ever and ever! Amen.’ 13 Then one of the elders addressed me, saying, ‘Who are these, robed in white, and where have they come from?’ 14 I said to him, ‘Sir, you are the one that knows.’ Then he said to me, ‘These are they who have come out of the great ordeal; they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. 15 For this reason they are before the throne of God, and worship Him day and night within His temple, and the one who is seated on the throne will shelter them. 16 They will hunger no more, and thirst no more; the sun will not strike them, nor any scorching heat; 17 for the Lamb at the centre of the throne will be their shepherd, and He will guide them to springs of the water of life, and God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.
Reader: All:
The Word of the Lord. Thanks be to God.
NUNC DIMITTIS All: LORD, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace : according to thy word. For mine eyes have seen : thy salvation;
Which thou hast prepared : before the face of all people;
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son : and to the Holy Ghost;
To be a light to lighten the Gentiles : and to be the glory of thy people Israel.
As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be : world without end. Amen.
THE APOSTLES’ CREED All: I BELIEVE in God the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth: And in Jesus Christ His only Son our Lord, Who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, Born of the Virgin Mary, Suffered under Pontius Pilate, Was crucified, dead, and buried: He descended into hell; The third day He rose again from the dead; He ascended into heaven, And sitteth on the right hand of God the Father Almighty; From thence He shall come to judge the quick and the dead. I believe in the Holy Ghost; The Holy Catholic Church; The Communion of Saints; The Forgiveness of sins; The Resurrection of the body, And the Life everlasting. Amen. Priest: All:
The Lord be with you. And with thy spirit.
Priest: All:
Let us pray. Lord, have mercy upon us. Christ, have mercy upon us.
Priest: Lord, have mercy upon us. All: OUR Father, which 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 them that trespass against us; And lead us not into temptation, But deliver us from evil. Amen. Priest: All:
O Lord, shew thy mercy upon us. And grant us thy salvation.
Priest:
O Lord, save the Queen.
All:
And mercifully hear us when we call upon thee.
Priest: All:
Endue thy Ministers with righteousness. And make thy chosen people joyful.
Priest: All:
O Lord, save thy people. And bless thine inheritance.
Priest: All:
Give peace in our time, O Lord. Because there is none other that fighteth for us, but only thou, O God.
Priest: All:
O God, make clean our hearts within us. And take not thy Holy Spirit from us.
Priest: Let us pray: Almighty God, we remember before you today your faithful servant Carleton; and we pray that, having opened to him the gates of larger life, you will receive him more and more into your joyful service, that, with all who have faithfully served you in the past, he 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, for ever and ever. All: Amen. First Sunday in Lent Priest: Almighty God, whose blessed Son was led by the Spirit into the wilderness and was tempted by Satan: Come quickly to help us who are assaulted by many temptations and, as you know the weaknesses of each of us, let each one find you mighty to save; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. All: Amen. Ash Wednesday Priest: Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and forgive the sins of all who are penitent: Create and make in us new and contrite hearts, that we, worthily lamenting our sins and acknowledging our wretchedness, may obtain of you, the God of all mercy, perfect remission and forgiveness; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. All: Amen. Priest: O GOD, from whom all holy desires, all good counsels, and all just works do proceed: Give unto thy servants that peace which the world cannot give; that both our hearts may be set to obey thy commandments, and also that by thee we being defended from the fear of our enemies may pass our time in rest and quietness; through the merits of Jesus Christ our Saviour. All: Amen. Priest: LIGHTEN our darkness, we beseech thee, O Lord; and by thy great mercy defend us from all perils and dangers of this night; for the love of thy only Son, our Saviour, Jesus Christ. All: Amen.
Priest: All:
The Lord be with you. And with thy Spirit.
Priest: All:
Let us bless the Lord Thanks be to God.
Celebrant: All:
May he rest in peace. Amen.
Celebrant: All:
May Carleton’s soul, and the souls of all the faithful departed through the mercies of God, rest in peace. Amen.
A Tribute | Sir Baltron Bethel KCMG A Tribute | Allyson Maynard-Gibson QC As I Knew Him | Dr. Yasmin Williams-Robinson (niece) Solo | ”Panis Angelicus”- sung by Mr. Patrick Williams Sermon | The Reverend Father Rodney Burrows HYMN | Come Let Us Join Our Cheerful Song No: 382 CPWI Come, let us join our cheerful songs With angels round the throne, Ten thousand thousand are their tongues, But all their joys are one.
Jesus is worthy to receive Honour and power divine; And blessings, more than we can give, Be, Lord, forever thine.
“Worthy the Lamb that died,” they cry, “To be exalted thus;” “Worthy the Lamb,” our lips reply, “For He was slain for us.”
Let all creation join in one To bless the sacred Name Of Him who sits upon the throne, And to adore the Lamb.
Benediction Hymn | “ O Saving Victim, Opening Wide” O Saving Victim! opening wide The gate of heaven to man below, Our foes press on from every side Thine aid supply, thy strength bestow.
All praise and thanks to Thee ascend, For evermore, blest One in Three, O grant us life that shall not end, In our true native land with Thee. Amen.
Hymn | “Therefore We Before Him Bending” Therefore we, before him bending This great Sacrament revere; Types and shadows have their ending, For the newer rite is here; Faith our outward sense befriending Makes our inward vision clear
Priest: People:
Glory let us give and blessing To the Father, and the Son, Honour, might, and praise addressing While eternal ages run; Ever to his love confessing Who from Both with Both is One. Amen.
Thou gavest them bread from Heaven. Containing in itself all sweetness. Alleluia!
Priest: Let us pray. O God, who in a wonderful Sacrament has left unto us a memorial of your passion: Grant us, we ask you, so to venerate the sacred mysteries of your Body and Blood, that we may ever perceive within ourselves the fruit of your Redemption. Who lives and reigns, world without end. All:
Amen.
The Divine Praises Blessed be God. Blessed be His Holy Name. Blessed be Jesus Christ, true God and true Man Blessed be the Name of Jesus. Blessed be His most Sacred Heart. Blessed be Jesus in the most holy Sacrament of the Altar. Blessed be God , the Holy Ghost, the Comforter. Blessed be the great Mother of God, Mary most holy. Blessed be her holy and immaculate Conception. Blessed be the name of Mary, Virgin and Mother. Blessed be St. Joseph, her most chaste Spouse. Blessed be God in His Angels and in His Saints. Antiphon:
Let us worship Jesus in this Great Sacrament.
Psalm 117 O Praise the Lord, all ye heathen*: praise him, all ye nations. For his merciful kindness is ever more and more toward us:* and the truth of the Lord endureth for ever. Praise the Lord.
Glory be to the father, and to the Son:* and to the Holy Ghost; As it was in the beginning, is now*, and ever shall be: world without end. Amen. Antiphon:
Let us worship Jesus in this Great Sacrament
Recessional Hymn | Glory To Thee, My God, This Night, No:15 CPWI
1.Glory to thee, my God, this night, For all the blessings of the light: Keep me, O keep me, King of kings, Beneath thine own almighty wings.
.O may my soul on thee repose, And with sweet sleep mine eyelids close; Sleep that shall me more vigorous make To serve my God when I awake.
2.Forgive me, Lord, for thy dear Son, The ill that I this day have done; That with the world, myself, and thee, I, ere I sleep, at peace may be.
5.When in the night I sleepless lie, My soul with heavenly thoughts supply; Let no ill dreams disturb my rest, No powers of darkness me molest.
3.Teach me to live, that I may dread The grave as little as my bed; Teach me to die, that so I may Rise glorious at the awful day.
6.Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; Praise him, all creatures here below; Praise him above, ye heavenly host: Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.
Tribute to
CARLETON WINSTON WILLIAMS, C.B.E. From daughter & son-in-law
Dear Dad, I never imagined I would be writing a tribute for your service of Remembrance in my birth month.
whom much is given, much is required.”
But you definitely had a plan.
You introduced me to the soft melody’s of Nat King Cole, as you and I slept on the couch in our home in Regency Park. I had no idea who he was.!!!
You left us on February 7th, at 7pm, and your home physical address number is 7. Biblically, the number 7 means completion. Could you have been more precise? I want to let you know that my world shattered when I got the call from Debi to come urgently to your home. You told me earlier on the the day that you died, how much you enjoyed the soup that Ray and I made for you. Little did I know, that would be our last conversation and your last meal. As this next chapter of my life unfolds, I cannot imagine how hard it will be to move forward without you. You were always my go to when I needed expert advice, and you would tell it to me straight. Whenever I would call you to share my anger or annoyance of situations that caused me headaches, you would tell me how to politely tell people off. Jesus knows that was great advice. More importantly, you insisted on the importance of being an independent thinker, leader and never a follower. One who exemplifies good morals and business ethics. I am forever grateful that you sacrificed to ensure that your wife and children lacked NOTHING. Unapologetically, I have no idea what it means to go without, and while everyone thinks they have or had the best Father, there is no question that you are number 1 on that list. As the lyrics to a song by Vashawn Mitchell say-searched all over, but couldn’t find anybody greater than you. Your wisdom is beyond measure. Our macaroni bake offs were so much fun, and I clearly remember you reminding me during those times that “ to
You admonished me to feed many.
You advised me not to chase after anything that isn’t chasing after me. Naturally when Ray and I married, you wanted to ensure that he had the qualities acceptable of a husband to your daughter. You were well pleased with us and proud that I followed your instructions. You spoke to me on many occasions about continuing on your philanthropic work, and I’m honored to have that mantle and carry that baton for you. With the deepest pain I’ve ever experienced and with the heaviest heart, I want you to know how much I will miss your presence, our numerous phone calls, lunches, and your witty humour. I don’t know how to process this, but one thing I do know is that our God, whom we both know, honor and love, is an awesome waymaker, miracle worker, promise keeper, and light in the darkness. His word says that weeping endures for the night, but joy cometh in the morning. I bless God for your stellar achievements, your model example of a life well lived, and a heart of gold to secure the financial future of thousands for generations to come. I love you with every fiber of my being. now, and forever plus a day. Thank you Dad. I’m so proud to be your daughter and thankful that God gave you to me as an earthly father for so many years. You will ALWAYS be my everything... With ALL of our love Cyndi and Ray
TRIBUTE FROM GRANDSON There are so many memories to draw from, but one in particular always stands out to me because I could finally flip the roles. This time you were on the receiving end. Mum and I would always talk about what a brilliant Lawyer you would make. Your thirst for knowledge, understanding, critical thinking and application of the profession fascinated you. When I went to law school, in one of the first check-up emails that you sent me, you signed off with “stay faithfully busy.” You always found your own ways to encourage and support, but this gem has always been one of my favourites. Shortly after reading that email, it dawned on me that I had a unique opportunity. Although I was always “Seve” to you, I was in a position to allow you to see Carleton Williams as a legal graduate and be called to the Bar of England and Wales, and The Bahamas. Although I never told you, that was the only external motivation I needed. So, that is what I did. I stayed faithfully busy for us. The phrase became our playful back and forth mantra and email sign-off over the next four plus years. Then, during my Call ceremony to the Bahamas Bar, I looked over at you, and you had your hand on your head, eyes closed; you were listening so intently. At the end of the ceremony, when Carleton Williams was admitted to the Bar, I looked over at you again, and you nodded. Not to me, not to anyone, to yourself, and I knew you felt it. Staying faithfully busy. Love, Seve
TRIBUTE FROM GRANDDAUGHTER
One day after school at Grammy and Gramps house I was sitting in the kitchen watching Gramps cook and asking 100 questions per usual. My curiosity this day was focused on understanding what vinegar actually was, which Gramps was adding to coleslaw for our lunch. As he started to explain he paused and said, “try it and then you’ll know.” It’s a moment (and taste) I’ll never forget. And that’s the way Gramps did things. He fed our curiosity (and stomachs with many a Johnny Cake) and always made sure we had every opportunity possible to experience new things (even if they taste like vinegar). Gramps and I had a close bond. We talked and laughed often, and he was invested in every step of my life. He was more than my grandfather, he was my guy, my Beaks, Cdub - the homie. A quiet guy with an enormous sense of humor only overshadowed by his enormous generosity and heart. A life without him seems impossible but I am so grateful for all the moments we had. 30 years together and still not nearly enough. As long as I am here as I am, so are you. Thanx for caring, Beaks LUV YA, Tatum
A TRIBUTE TO MY BIG BROTHER CARLETON W. WILLIAMS
DEBS, MYX & CYN - THINKING ABOUT Y’ALL. (I’m sending this to each of you as right now I’m wishing I could be with you all.) I made tomato soup tonight and Kristen started talking about Lobster bisque...and of course the next logical step was to talk about Bykes. This week I’ve re-lived years and years of our days together. I remember him mulling about in the kitchen in Regency park, pulling up in the driveway as we played ping pong, bringing home popsicles from Chic Charney (sp?), trips to Howard Johnson... hanging out at the BC Hotel while Trade Winds was under construction, learning how to use a shotgun, going to Dr. Lunn to learn about being a young woman (Ha! Bykes covered all territory). There are so many stories...all the little things...I remember how comforting he was when we lost Daddy...He’d tell me stories about young Bob🤗. I know so very many people are writing amazing things about Bykes - and I know that to you all he was ssso much more. I will miss him terribly...I know that YOUR loss is immeasurable, and wish I were there to just hug you all...I imagine you will experience a plethora of emotions - it may come in waves - and there’s no governing how you deal with it. I know you are taking care of Tweens- just remember to take care of yourselves. Try to get some rest. H, the children & I love you all. ~ Hele
By your little sister, Jackie In 1940 when I was sent from heaven, You were already there and almost eleven; I always admired you for your well-dressed manner Only one thing – no socks – it did not matter! To me, you were my big brother And I loved you like I’ve loved no other! You soon got married and left me there To be with mother and daddy in their loving care; But you were still there for me When I needed you; I went to Dentist Eneas to look after my teeth And when he gave the big bill Mother and daddy could not pay And you came to my rescue, their place to fill; Then when I got married to a Baptist Preacher Daddy said, “No way!” So you gave me away! Problems came up and there you were again Coming to my rescue – Hallelujah! And when Charles died, you came to see If all was well that he left for me; I moved to Treasure Cove for security reasons And you still kept in touch To make sure I was okay! You obeyed the fifth commandment As you took care of daddy and mother Hence you’ve gained the promise “That thy days may be longer” 91 years you’ve made it hard and stronger! Now you’ve gone to be with the Lord You left quietly and didn’t say a word! You’ve fought the good fight And finished your course Always loving! Always giving! Always doing some good deed! I can’t come to the realization that you’ve gone And left me feeling so all alone! Thank you! Thank you my big brother! Love you like I’ve loved no other! REST IN PEACE!
A TRIBUTE TO A GREAT BAHAMIAN, MR. CARLETON WILLIAMS Mr. Carleton Williams is a great nation builder, a great community builder, a great businessman who poured into many people. For us who were apart of the Original McDonald’s family he has helped shape and mold our lives. He lived out his purpose by living each moment helping others and building people up. His leadership and passion for people was extraordinary. To His family we mourn with you because Carleton was an inspiration soul. He was a great Bahamian success story. When his story is told to the next generation it will be a story for the ages. May his soul rest in peace and rise in glory. “The McDonalds Original Family”
TRIBUTE TO CARLETON WILLIAMS A Pioneer, A Trailblazer, A Visionary, Forward-thinking, Ahead of his time, A Gentleman, A Mentor, A Humble Man, An Inspirer, that’s the Carleton I knew. In 1975, when memories of the Bahamian flag being hoisted as the British flag came down were still fresh, a tall man with deep set eyes, a shy smile and an entrepreneurial spirit brought the McDonald’s franchise to Nassau. It was quite a fete at that time for a black Bahamian, but this humble man with a massive Afro do stood proud, exuding quiet confidence as the ceremony unfolded. His name was Carleton Williams. What would matter to him then and in later years was not what colour you were or where you went to school but if you were ethical, honest, if you stood for something. If you wanted his attention, being smart helped. Being grounded was even better. But being funny was the best because for all his deadpan-like expression of seriousness, he loved nothing better than a good story that ended with a hearty laugh and hug. My journey with Carleton began on a personal level at the Gym Tennis Club where I took tennis lessons for a short time. On a professional level, I met him while I was serving as Vice President and Financial Comptroller of Caribbean Bottling Co, when he was chairman of the board, uniting the bottlers of popular soft drinks like Coca-Cola with the consummate consumer, McDonald’s. It was a brilliant strategic move. A visionary leader himself, he had a keen eye for spotting and supporting potential leaders. I had been at Caribbean Bottling for 15 years when he walked into my office one morning and asked, “How would you like to buy my restaurants?” I rolled my eyes and said to myself, “I can’t see myself flipping burgers”. I was fully preparing myself to someday become President of Caribbean Bottling. He told me the McDonald’s franchise consultant was in town. If I were interested, he would arrange for us to meet the following day. “Go home, sleep on it and let
me know in the morning,” Carleton retorted. I said to him, “You expect me to make a life-changing decision like this overnight?” He shrugged his shoulders and walked out of my office. That’s how shrewd he was. It was always my desire to own my own business, I knew an opportunity had literally just dropped in my lap and I had to act or lose it. As they say, the rest is history.
to us with respect regardless of his or her background. It was his deep-seated solid, strong and fair character that became the measure of the man. He embodied McDonald’s Core Values giving priority to the customer’s experience, believing in the McDonald’s system, operating ethically, giving back to community and growing profitably while continually striving to improve.
Carleton handed me a large footprint to follow when I became the next franchisee for The Bahamas. It was an honor to attempt to fill his shoes and it was not until I drilled down deep to manage the business that I fully understood the devotion and loyalty his staff felt for him. It ran so deep it is hard to put into words. Yet, he wanted me to succeed and unselfishly mentored me and taught me how to navigate corporate and regional politics.
Carleton turned the spotlight on others, encouraging respect for people, the brand, and demanded that the business he brought to The Bahamas that became part of our culture always operate in a fair and just manner. By weaving the needs of the communities with those of the business, he embraced McDonald’s mandate to create an environment where all partners thrive.
He introduced me to key players at the corporate level to partner with. He also ensured that all of the Caribbean owneroperators supported me. He did not have to do any of that, but he did it because that is the Carleton we all knew, the man who would walk calmly through his professional and personal life collecting one honour after another, then shrug off those plaques and plaudits that others would blow up and frame – Queen’s honours, Chamber of Commerce Businessman of the Year, Paul Harris Fellow awarded by Rotary, The Salvation Army Others Award, the latter from an organization for which he worked tirelessly, giving of his time and his resources. Carleton taught his proteges how to be bold and take risks, how to go against the grain, how to be relentless and persistent. He guided you and encouraged you. He was your biggest cheerleader. He was witty and philosophical and always used his wit to impart profound words of wisdom. Carleton never boasted about his own academic achievements though he earned a Master’s degree abroad while maintaining business, family and community life at home. More than a brilliant businessman with a scholarly side, he was caring, stoic, confident, forthright and a statesman. Just as he had stood up straight and proud at the opening of that first McDonald’s, he would remain that way, a staunch defender of what was right and expecting each of us to treat the one next
The values that earned him universal respect were the values he tried to impart to others, as if he could endow them with the same kind of warmth and goodness of heart which beat inside his own body. By his actions, he reminded us that to whom much is given, much is required. That is why he helped so many persons from all walks of life financially. Never one to draw attention to himself, he gave and gave with the proviso, “if you let anyone know I helped you, don’t ask for my help again.” Carleton taught me so much about the value of goodness. But he also taught me how to be bold and take risks, how to go against the grain. Being a female, I had many odds stacked against me. He encouraged me every step of the way. He was witty and always used his wit to impart profound words of wisdom. I join with the rest of the friends he left behind in shedding a stinging tear and saying thank you for lending us your heart for so long. Your McFamily will always treasure your memories. You will always be Our Inspiration. Earla Bethel President DanBrad (McDonald’s)
TRIBUTE TO CARLETON WINSTON WILLIAMS. I would firstly wish to convey heartfelt condolences on behalf of Betty and myself to Carleton’s wife Katherina, children Mickey, Debi and Cyndi as well as their extended families. Carleton and I met in 1977 when he was seeking to expand the McDonald’s franchise which he had introduced to The Bahamas several years earlier. He and I developed an immediate friendship, which grew from strength to strength over the ensuing years which included getting to know each other’s families. I have had the pleasure of working directly with both Mickey and Cyndi and can attest that chips do not fall very far from the tree. Carleton’s social conscience and generosity towards his community is one of the many positive qualities that always stood out over the years. He was a firm believer that we all have a responsibility to assist those less fortunate than ourselves and this is something he did throughout his life without fanfare or publicity. His unswerving commitment to the betterment and uplifting of Bahamians was always apparent and was demonstrated when the decision was taken to divest himself of the McDonald’s franchise as well as Caribbean Bottling Co. His desire was to always see these companies remain under Bahamian ownership and preferably with individuals that he knew and trusted to continue to manage them with integrity.
In the case of Caribbean Bottling Company, Carleton supported the transition process with The Coca Cola Company and played an integral role in its restructuring as Chairman for 10 years until 2016 when he retired from the Board of Directors. It was at this time that the company honored him by creating the Carleton Williams Scholarship Program to assist talented young financially challenged Bahamian students in attending Private high school. He was extremely proud of this program. One of his most admired qualities was the ability to communicate in a clear and articulate manner on any topic with any audience while making everyone feel respected and involved. Carleton has been a mentor and role model for numerous Bahamians over the years and our country is a better place today due to the many contributions he made to our people and the community. While we all are better individuals today for having known Carleton, it is also gratifying that his legacy lives on thru us which is all that anyone can ask for as a leader. Our hearts are heavy for the loss but we celebrate a life well lived and one that will never be forgotten. God speed my friend. May he rest in Peace Walter A. Wells President and Chief Executive Officer Caribbean Bottling Company ( Bahamas), Ltd.
THANK YOU Our family is grateful for your kind words, your caring expressions, flowers, and your friendship. We are comforted to know that Dad was so well-loved. The Williams Family. I have seen the burden God has laid on the human race. 11 He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet[a] no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end. 12 I know that there is nothing better for people than to be happy and to do good while they live. 13 That each of them may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all their toil—this is the gift of God. Ecclesiastes 3:10
HONORARY PALLBEARERS
Marqueta Collie Idris Reid Edward Williams Gloria Hanna Shirley Francis Wil Bethell
Walter Wells Rawson McDonald Rodney Williams Jacqueline Smith Allyson Maynard-Gibson Fred Murray
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