A CELEBRATION OF THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF
July 13, 1939- October 9, 2020 Wednesday, October 21, 2020 | 12:00pm Lakeview Memorial Gardens & Mausoleums
The Life and Legacy of
CARDINAL ERIE CUMBERBATCH Two significant things happened on July 13, 1939. The Harry James Band recorded, “From The Bottom Of My Heart” in New York on this day, introducing the new vocalist, a skinny, “Ol’ Blue-Eyes” youngster called Frank Sinatra who was cutting his first single. Nations away, another first was happening in the Nation’s Capital, Nassau Bahamas, when another “blue-eye baby” named Cardinal Erie Cumberbatch made his entrance onto the world stage as the first child to proud parents George Cumberbatch and Olga Adderley. Cardinal’s titles over the years were as interchanging as his eyes: Cardy, B, Uncle B, Mr. C., Mi Amigo, Pappi, Poka-Poka, Daddy, Husband, Grampy, Gampy, Engineer Extraordinaire, Cruiser, Photographer, Body Builder, Scholar, Man of Valor, Friend, Christian ... Mr. Cumberbatch. On June 19, 1965, Cardinal married his first love, the Queen of Chippingham Deanna Campbell. Together they produced the first Prince and Princess of “The Cumberbatch Royal Family”, Stuart and Stacey. His love for them was evident until his dying day and they loved him equally as much. Deanne predeceased him in August 1983. A highly skilled, hardworking, extensively traveled, well-loved and versatile Superintendent, Mr. Cumberbatch spent a combined 46 years between The Ministry of Works and later The Water and Sewerage Corporation. It has often been said that upon his retirement he left extremely big and respected shoes for his colleagues to fill. His tenure is best summarized by one of his former colleagues, “He
inspired an entire generation as one of the first Bahamian Supervisors”. It was at this place of work that he so loved, that Cardy laid his eyes ... first on the legs and then the face of a beautiful young employee whose work ID number was #1, by the name of Naomi Cooper. On March 17, 1990 he made her his “Number One” Lady, Lover, Queen and Life Partner, his “Nae”. Together, for 30 years, 6 months, 3 weeks, 1 day and 12 hours they lived out their matrimonial vows to love and cherish each other for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health ... until they are literally parted by death and eternity. This union added two more Princes - Edison and Kenneth and two Princesses - Chivonne and Keshala to “The Cumberbatch Royal Family”. Mr. C was indeed a Priest, Provider and King in every sense of the word. More importantly, he was a member of a Royal Priesthood and Nation as a Child of God and Ambassador of The Kingdom of Heaven. On Friday October 9, 2020 at 10:35pm his ambassadorial status was recalled. While resting in the arms of his loving wife, his eyes turned towards the gates of Heaven, and with one last look at her and a smile he slipped out of the embrace of his Nae and entered into the eternal rest of his Lord. No more Parkinson’s Disease that he so gracefully carried for over 20 years. No more struggles or cares. Now united with family and friends who had gone on before and awaiting the day when he will be joined by those who he had temporarily left behind.
Temporarily Left behind to celebrate his life and legacy are: His wife: Naomi Cumberbatch Sons: Stuart Cumberbatch, Edison Sumner and Dr. Kenneth Romer Daughters: Stacey Dames, Chivonne Fox and Keshala Knowles. Brother: Leonard Cumberbatch Sisters: Sandra Collie, Deanne Fitzgerald and Valeria McInnes Grandchildren: Tamon Fox, Joshua Dames, Eric Cumberbatch, Kenedee Romer, Avery Sumner, Taleah Fox, Kai Dames, Harper Romer, Dylan and Evan Knowles. Daughters-in-law: Jasmine Cumberbatch, Darleen Sumner and Crystal Romer Sons-in-law: Hon. Marvin Dames, Barry Fox and Randy Knowles Sisters-in-law: Florence Bethel, Earnestine Forbes, Val, Marjorie and DeAnne Cooper Brothers-in-law: Berkley Colebrooke, Gordon Forbes and Barry McInnes, Kermit, Reginald and Allison Campbell Other Relatives and Friends including: Neighbours Lois and Gail Bethell, Stephanie and Sandra Carey and Ormond Ferguson; The Humes, Jones, Johnson and Archer Families of Hutcheson Street; The Adderley Family and relatives including Manfred and Yvonne Strachan, Nigel, Perry and Basil McHardy; The Cumberbatch Family, Geneva Roberts & Family, The Campbell Family, The Dames Family, Sandril Evans and The Evans Family, Courtnee Roberts, Inspector Domonic Wilson, Sgt. Tomas McIntosh; Friends & Associates throughout New Providence and Long Island including Orlando Turnquest, Mavis Darling-Hill and Kingdor Parkinson’s Foundation, Pastors, Officers and Members of Abundant Life Bible Church, Patsy Knowles, Anamae Hamilton, Faith Roxbury, Joyce Knowles, Sarah Gardiner, Simeon Gardiner, Barbara Malcolm, Evelyn Culmer, Mrs. Ailen Knowles, Sis. Velma Allen, Abundant Life Women’s, Men and Care Ministries, Bishop Neil C. Ellis and Mount Tabor Church, Bishop Lester Cox and Word of Truth Ministries International, Dr. Kimberly Bethel & Staff of The Walk in Clinic (Collins Avenue); Faithful Caregivers; Pamela Turnquest, Sandy Stuart and Ingrid Bethune, Demetrius Cox and Family; Thelma Russell and Family; Water & Sewerage Corporation Management, Staff and Retirees and a host of other relatives and friends.
Opening Sentences | Pastor Gil Maycock, Senior Co-Pastor, Abundant Life Bible Church Opening Prayer | Pastor Kenneth Romer (Son) Scripture Reading | Psalm 23 | Eric Cumberbatch (Grandson) Opening Selection | “The Way of the Cross Leads Home” | Abundant Life Chapel Singers Tribute on behalf of Grand Children | Written by Kai Dames to say Read by Harper Romer (Grandchildren) Scripture Reading | Philippians 2:5-11 | Avery Sumner (Grandson) Tribute | Stuart Cumberbatch (Son) Congregational Hymn | “My Jesus, I love Thee” My Jesus, I love thee, I know thou art mine; for thee all the follies of sin I resign; my gracious Redeemer, my Savior art thou; if ever I loved thee, my Jesus, ‘tis now.
I’ll love thee in life, I will love thee in death, and praise thee as long as thou lendest me breath, and say when the deathdew lies cold on my brow: If ever I loved thee, my Jesus, ‘tis now.
I love thee because thou hast first loved me and purchased my pardon on Calvary’s tree; I love thee for wearing the thorns on thy brow; if ever I loved thee, my Jesus, ‘tis now.
In mansions of glory and endless delight, I’ll ever adore thee in heaven so bright; I’ll sing with the glittering crown on my brow: If ever I loved thee, my Jesus, ‘tis now.
Eulogy | Pastor Gil Maycock, Senior Co-Pastor, Abundant Life Bible Church Special Music | “The Prayer” Interment and Committal Closing Song | “I’m Going Home Medley” | Bishop Denczil Rolle & Friends Closing Prayer and Benediction
TRIBUTE TO MY SOULMATE- CARDY It was January of 1990 when you said that you were thinking about marrying me. I said, “well while you think about it, I will pray about it”. I asked the Lord to give me a specific answer if this was from Him and He did. One week later, we were making wedding plans. On March 17, 1990 at approximately 11:00 am we said “I do” to each other...for better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, til death us do part...and we meant it. You were the husband, father, grandfather, and friend that anyone could ask for. You cared so much for your entire family and made sure that we got the best that you could have given. As our families merged, you were a great father to my children and you took them as your very own. You always said that when you marry a person, you marry their family and you exemplified this. While life was not always a bed of roses, it was full of love, wisdom, respect and understanding. It was our love story! During our 30 years of marriage, we watched our children become mature, responsible and independent great men and women. They all expanded our family and we were blessed with 10 wonderful grandchildren, who possessed an incomparable love for Gampy/Papi. About twenty-two years ago, you began to display symptoms which were eventually diagnosed as early onset of Parkinson’s Disease. However, this did not stop you from being the dedicated and devoted man that you’ve always been. Despite of your diagnosis, we spent many times creating memories together as a family. I cannot forget our family vacations and our numerous trips to the doctor....all of which added to the fond thoughts that I hold of you today. Around 2010, your physical condition began to deteriorate, but your mind remained sharp as a tack. You still had
your witty, dry humor that would make me and anyone else who visited you enjoy a hearty laugh. While this may have caused a strain on the ordinary marriage, ours was extraordinary and our bond grew even stronger. It was my pleasure, privilege, promise and pledge to take care of you until your last breath. The vows that I recited on that cool Spring day in 1990, came alive ...”in sickness and in health”. During this time, you made the most important decision of your life. You began to grow in your spiritual walk and asked the Lord to come into your heart. You said, “Jesus, I love you and I am looking forward to being with you one day”. Cardy, today you are with Jesus!! Some of our most precious moments were praying and studying the Word of God. We spent many times attending church services and worshipping together. Due to your progressing condition, March 3 2013 was the last time you physically attended church service at Abundant Life Bible Church. The past ten years have been the most rewarding years of my life. I became your nurse, your doctor, your primary caregiver, your personal chef, your chauffeur, all while remaining your lifelong dedicated and committed partner....every role I played was with dignity and pride. In your final days, you prepared us that you “were going up”. On the evening of Friday 9th October you said, “we’ll be okay” followed by a warm and genuine smile. After feeding you your last meal, you told me, “don’t go too far”. I stayed by your side and with your head in my hand, eyes toward Heaven, you breathed your last breath. My love, my soulmate, my Cardy...”until death do us part”. Love Always Nai
TRIBUTE TO DADDY
Love has no age, no limit and no death ‌John Galsworthy It was no secret the love we shared. From the start of each day and before I retired to bed at night, all I could do is think about the many ways I could care and bring comfort to you. Despite your pain, you seldom complained. Some days, I wished I could make it all go away. I have come to realize that the greatest gift for both of us was spending valuable time, sharing personal moments that I will cherish for eternity. The bond we shared will never be broken. You were my daddy. I remember the many nights spent in hospital praying that you would just continue to fight a little longer, and every time you returned home I thanked the Lord for answering my prayers. I always encouraged you and told you that your purpose was not fulfilled and God was not ready for you yet. When I visited with you the last time, you laughed and talked with me, and just before I left you asked me the time. Was that maybe your subtle way of telling me that the time had come for you to leave us, or did you receive your message from heaven that your appointment was awaiting you and your purpose here on earth had finally been fulfilled? It was an honor to be there for you and to help take care of you. Daddy, you were the most perfect daddy ever and I love you. Thanks for the memories. Love you forever and a day. Stacey
TRIBUTE TO “BB”
A TRIBUTE TO GAMPY CUMBERBATCH Our Grandpa tilled a garden, And kept it in his heart; He planted precious seeds of love, That gave our lives their start. His smile gave it the sunshine, And drops of precious rain He gently nurtured every seed And watched what we became. When the strong winds sometimes blew He protected us enough; But not too much because he knew He raised us strong and tough! He was a great example, And taught us right from wrong; And gave us many lessons That will last a lifetime long. When sickness wreaked his body He never once complained, But always found the time to smile And love us through the pain. You cared for every flower, That within your garden grew, And now you’re in God’s garden As he made your body new. We are our Gampy’s garden, We are his legacy, We’ll each carry a seed from you For all eternity. You Labored long and you fought hard It’s time to take your rest Your “Garden of Grandkids” love you, But Jesus loves you best! “From your Grand Children” Tamon, Joshua, Eric, Avery, Kenedee, Taleah, Kai, Harper, Dylan and Evan. (C)Kenneth Romer 2020
Cardinal became a member of our family and my brother when as a young boy newly introduced to Nassau, he and Chickie became friends in spite of the difference in their ages. He was inspired to train at weight lifting by him and they became brothers and affectionately called each other “BB” for Big Brother. We were more than delighted when he and Deanna, my sister, were married and he was then a brother and a brother in law. I admired his gentle manner and responsibility to his family as I watched him develop into a husband and father extraordinaire. This he acquired from his deep love and devotion to his Mom, Ms. Olga to us. To say that I love him and admired him is not enough. I will always miss him...my brother and my friend. Love Always Val
“TRIBUTE TO OUR DAD, “CARDY” Family isn’t defined by only last names or by blood; it’s defined by commitment and love” - Dave Willis “Sometimes I wish I could just press rewind back to the old days and press pause”. From what seems like forever, Cardy has been a part of our lives; there is no doubt that his passing will leave a great void in our lives and hearts. He was a pillar of strength and displayed humility and dedication in every role whether it was Husband, Son, Father, Grandfather, Provider, Counselor or Friend. As young children, some of our earliest memories were him bringing ice cream for us on Saturday nights as we watched our favorite TV show, going for a ride in the blue mustang that always had delicious Murray’s mints in the armrest, or him flexing his huge muscles which we found so amazing as kids. As we matured, the moments that we shared added pleasant experiences to our memory bank. Whether it was the annual family trips, birthday celebrations, weddings, the birth of grandchildren...his presence was always felt! Every Sunday or during Christmas dinners he sat proudly at the head of table as we gathered around to spend quality time together. ”Fatherhood is a lifetime responsibility with its challenges, sweetness and bitterness”. Cardy was a hardworking, well respected, and skillful Jack of all Trades. We fondly remember his frequent trips to Home Depot where he would buy every tool imaginable and then come home to yet another project. His hands remained busy, even after he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. He was noble and consistent in providing for his family and ensured that there was structure in our household. He believed in earning your keep and being a part of the household meant that you made a beneficial contribution. We remember him getting up daily at the crack of dawn to head to work at Water & Sewerage. In his own way, he encouraged all of us to pursue our dreams and we are forever grateful for his impact and influence on the individuals that we are today. “I am a philosopher, and we philosophers are better at questions than answers”. He was indeed a philosopher and also had a witty sense of humor. You could always tell when a philosophical conversation was brewing because he would open with a series of questioning only matched by the Great Socrates. He would often close his eyes and tilt his head as he discussed his points and we all walked away wiser because of the knowledge he so freely shared. He was a realist, if you wanted the honest answer and not the feel good answer, ask Cardy...Mom could attest. It was hilarious listening to the two of them going back and forth from time to time both speaking only above a whisper and sticking their points. At the end of the day iron truly sharpened iron and together they were a formidable team. “When you marry someone, you marry their family”. All of our spouses got along well with Cardy as he was very easy going, insightful and family oriented. In our family, the terms “step” and “in-law” were seldom spoken. We were one big family and it would be proudly proclaimed that are 12 children including spouses and 10 grandchildren. As our family grew and the grandchildren came along, he was so overjoyed and his eyes lit up when he saw them and they all loved their Gampy. He spent his family day with some of the children and grandchildren...final moments that we will cherish forever. “And think of him as living in the hearts of those he touched...for nothing loved is ever lost and he was loved so much”. Our beloved Cardy who brought so much joy to our mother over the years has said “see you later”, and we are sure that one day we will see him again. He lived a quiet and peaceful life and went on to his eternal home in the same manner. We will truly miss you Cardy and will now have to carry on without your physical presence, but you will forever be in our hearts through memories and the life lessons learned. Love Edison, Kenneth, Chivonne and Keshala
Words of Gratitude
People everywhere, from all walks of life have given us so many things intangible and dear. We couldn’t begin to count them all, or even make them clear; we only know we owe so much to everyone. You have brought sunshine into our home; you have visited, prayed, through gifts of all kinds, called asked about us and simply cared. For this we are thankful. Our sorrow is easier to bear with the help from God and friends like you. May God richly bless you all. The Family
Honorary Pallbearer Stuart Cumberbatch Edison Sumner Dr. Kenneth Romer Tamon Fox Joshua Dames Avery Sumner Harper Romer Dylan Knowles Evan Knowles Funeral Service Entrusted To:
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