Esther
EUCHARISTIC BURIAL OF THE DEAD
ISADORA ADDERLEY-BETHUNE December 17, 1945-January 28, 2019 Aged 73 Years
Service Held At: St. Agnes Anglican Church Baillou Hill Road Grants Town Nassau, N. P., The Bahamas Sunday, February 10, 2019 2 o’clock p.m. Officiating: Father I. Ranfurly Brown Assisted By: Most Reverend Drexel Gomez Canon Warren Rolle Organist: Preston Ferguson Interment Made In: St. Agnes Cemetery Nassau, Street New Providence, The Bahamas
Esther Isadora Adderley-Bethune a beautiful baby girl and the fourth child was born to Emmanuel and Gladys Adderley on the island of New Providence on December 17th, 1945 in the Family’s quaint and immaculately clean little home on Goal Alley. Esther received her early education at St. Agnes Day School, Western Junior and Senior Schools. Some of her Childhood friend were Janet BunchLightbourne, Astrid Adderley, Marge Bowleg just to name a few. Esther always showed an interest in Hair grooming. As a result of her interest, she gained employment as a teenager at Eloise Edwards and later at Ruby’s Beauty Salon located on Cameron Street, owned & operated by Mrs. Ruby Clarke. She often recounted with pleasure, the story of how she as a budding Cosmetologist had the privilege of grooming Lady Marguerite Pindling’s hair while employed at Ruby’s. In an effort to perfect her craft, Esther was afforded the opportunity to attend Beauty School in Florida. During her stay in Florida, Esther gave birth to her only child, Yolanda Theresa Evette Adderley-Fernander. To ensure that young Yolanda received the best care possible while Esther completed her studies, Yolanda, was sent home to Nassau to be raised by her Maternal Grandmother, Gladys Adderley. Esther retuned to Nassau where she started her business venture in her Mother’s home on Goal Alley. While operating her business at the family homestead, Esther met, fell in love with and married the late Mr. Vernon Bethune of Jamaica in March 1968. As a result of her flourishing business Esther saw fit to open her Beauty Salon “Little Miss Beauty Box” in rented premises within the neighborhood.
Years later, the business was relocated to a Family owned Building still in the Neighborhood. Some of Esther’s Clients included her Mother, Gladys Adderley, Mrs. Alice Tinker, Mrs. Jenny Mackey, Mrs. Leonie Hanna, Mrs. Ruth Johnson, Ms. Millie Archer and Mrs. Pinder, all leading ladies in the Neighborhood. The little girls in the neighborhood would also visit to get their hair done on special occasions – Easter, Christmas and School opening. Needless to say, Esther’s shop was the hang out spot. As the years went by Esther joined her brother Johnny in his business establishment Daylight Donuts. Under the influence of Alfreda Rolle, Esther would become a tour representative with Pleasure Time Tours until her retirement in April 2018. Esther loved to work and would often say, the thing that kept her going was her job. Family was very important to Esther, she loved her siblings, nieces and nephews all dearly. She was also very protective of her family members, especially her Daughter Yolanda, her Son-in-Law Sean and her Grandson Malique. For “Aunty Esther”, it was taboo to speak ill of any of her siblings, nieces and nephews. Family gathering were always important to her. Esther loved to cook! At Christmas time, Esther would make two calls. One to Christine and one to Ken. “What we putting together?!” The menu would be planned by Esther and the Family would comply. Esther made the best potato salad in world! Travelling was one of Esther’s hobbies. She travelled extensively to Europe, United States and the family islands, with the last being a European Tour. Her travelling buddies included Marge Bowleg, Marcia Moss, Elsie Strachan, Christine and Yolanda Sean and Malique. Esther and Marge would travel every year to Marge’s brother Johnny for Thanksgiving. Esther loved World news, CNN, MSNBC, Nancy Grace and was always interested in what Donald Trump was doing. Esther was a fun-loving person. She loved life and lived it to the fullest. In her younger days she was always having a party especially every year on Yolanda’s birthday. In her presence, wherever two or three gathered it became a party. Esther loved to dress up. Whenever she bought a pair of shoes, a matching bag and hat had to be purchased to accompany them. She believed a woman should never enter church with her head uncovered. A devoted Anglican, Esther attended church regularly. 10:30 am and Evening Song were her favorite services. She was very quiet and unassuming in her worship. She loved the Lenten season, and she loved Stations of the Cross.
Esther was a member of the ACW (Anglican Church Women) and gave her contribution whenever called upon. She loved the hymns of the Ancient and Modern. Esther’s Faith in God grew Stronger as she convalesced on her bed. She would be heard singing along when the service was televised. The last televised service she was heard humming, the Epiphany hymn, “Songs of Thankfulness and Praise”. On Esther’s sick bed, she was heard expressing to Jesus how He Knew she always loved Him and asking Him, “Lord why don’t you take me with you” while she thanked and praised him. Esther loved her grandson, Malique. Nothing was too good for him. She was looking forward to seeing him graduate from college to get married and give her some Great grandchildren. In the last few years, Esther discovered that her health was failing. She never complained. She never told anyone. Her reason being, She didn’t want to upset her family’s and her daughter’s happy life. It was in March 2018 when she finally revealed to her family what her health challenges were. Esther attended doctors and was hospitalized on several occasions both in Florida and Nassau. January 19, 2019 would be final admission to hospital. She quietly and peacefully slipped away after receiving a prayer and a blessing from the priest present. She seemed to just relax and slipped away surrounded by her family and friends on January 29, 2019 at approximately 3:00 pm. She will be fondly remembered and her memories treasured by: Her only daughter: Yolanda Fernander; Son-In-Law: Sean Fernander; Grandson: Malique Fernander; Grandson-in-law: Rashad Fernander; Sisters: Miriam Evans, Florence Deveaux and Christine Adderley; Brothers: Johnny Adderley; Adopted Brother: George Delancy; Brother-in-Law: Ivan Deveaux and Patrick Adderley; Sister-in-Law: Hestine Adderley; Aunts: Carolyn Morrison and Evangeline Sweeting; Uncle: Cordell Delancy; Nieces and Nephews: Jackie and Ken Sands, Debbie and Charles Gardiner, Genise and Michael Albury, Kimberlee and William Armbrister, Anissa Musgrove, Nicole and Shamal Henfield, George Evans (New Zealand), Coral and Kathryn Evans (Austraillia), Christopher Adderley, John Jr. and Heston Adderley. Grand Nieces and Nephews: Kenji and Brittany Sands, Riley and Jayda Evans (Australia), Anthony, Adam and
Aiden Musgrove, Maddison Roberts, McKenzie Henfield, Demi Major, Royal and Brandon Adderley, Deyton and Michael Albury Jr., Kristan Miller, and Kaitlyn Armbrister. Other Relatives and Special Friends: Arnold & Maureen Gibson, Vaughn Gibson and Family, Dwayne Gibson and Family, Donna Morris and Family, Karen Eusebio & Family George Sands, Fr. Deangelo Bowe, Marquetta Collie, Marge Bowleg, Marcia Moss and Family, Sandra Carey and Family, Telcine Whymns and Family, Donnelle Opuno and Family, and Marsha Sands and Family, Tyrone and Corina Neely and Family, Cornell and Carol Rahming and Family, Nanette Adderley and Family, Father Patrick and Astrid Adderley, Janet Bunch-Lightbourne and Family, Karen Curtis and Family, Phillip and Marquerita McPhee and Family, Debbie Bethell and Kallia Southerland, Nicky Gomez, Tristan Miller, Charmaine Miller, Hestley Thompson and Family, Renee Walkine and Family, Elsie Strachan and Family, Alfreda Rolle and Family, Blanche Molly, James Rolle and Familly, Wyatt Johnson and Family, Lesley Johnson Pinder & Family, Anthony Musgrobe, Sr., Sly Roker, Ethel Johnson, The Dennis, Moss, Whyms, Poitier and Mott Families, The Seabreaze Grove neighborhood family, Inez and “Bookie” Johnson & Family, Shayne Pinder & Family, Pleasure Time Tours, St. Agnes Anglican Church Family, Goal Alley Family, St. John’s Class of ‘81Angels Elite Nursing Services, the Sir Victor Sassoon Heart Foundation Committee Members and others too many to mention.
Order of Service
RECEPTION OF THE BODY: With faith in Jesus Christ, we receive the body of our sister Esther for burial. Our sister was washed in Holy Baptism and anointed with the Holy Spirit. Let us therefore, with confidence, pray to God our Heavenly Father, the Giver of life, that He will raise her to perfection in the company of the Saints. Celebrant: ALL:
The Lord be with you. And also with you.
Celebrant:
Let us pray.
O God of grace and glory, we remember before you this day our sister. We thank you for giving her to us, her family and friends, to know and love as a companion on our earthly pilgrimage. In your boundless compassion, console us who mourn. Give us faith to see in death the gate of eternal life, so that in quiet confidence we may continue our course on earth, until, by your call, we are reunited with those who have gone before; through Jesus Christ our Lord. ALL:
Amen.
OPENING SENTENCES: Jesus said, I am the resurrection, and I am the life; he who believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and who ever lives and believes in me shall never die. John 11:25-25 The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, His compassion never fails: every morning they are renewed Lamentations 3:22-23 Jesus said, let not your hearts be troubled; believe in God, believe also in me. John 14:1 I am sure that neither death, nor life, nor angles, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:38-39 If we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord; so then, whether we live or whether we die, we are the Lord’s. For to this end Christ died and lived again, that he might be Lord both of the dead and of the living. Romans 14:8-9 We brought nothing into the world, and we take nothing out. The Lord gives, and the Lord takes away: Blessed be the name of the Lord. Job 1:21 The Eternal God is our refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms. Deuteronomy 33:27
OPENING HYMN | Palms of Glory Palms of glory, raiment bright, Crowns that never fade away, Gird and deck the saints in light, Priests, and kings, and conquerors they.
Round the altar priests confess, If their robes are white as snow, ‘Twas the Saviour’s righteousness, And his blood, that made them so.
Yet the conquerors bring their palms To the Lamb amidst the throne, And proclaim in joyful psalms Victory through his cross alone.
They were mortal too like us; Ah! when we like them must die, May our souls translated thus Triumph, reign, and shine on high.
Kings for harps their crowns resign, Crying, as they strike the chords, ‘Take the kingdom, it is thine, King of kings, and Lord of lords.’ THE COLLECT FOR PURITY: All: Almighty God, to you all hearts are open, all desires known, and from You no secrets are hid: cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of Your Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love You and worthily magnify Your Holy Name, through Christ our Lord. Amen. COLLECT FOR THE DEPARTED: Celebrant:
Let us pray:
Almighty God, we remember before You today Your servant Esther, and we pray that, having opened to her the gates of larger life, you will receive her more and more into your joyful service, that, with all who have served you in the past, she may share in the eternal victory of Jesus Christ our Lord; who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. All:
Amen.
THE OLD TESTAMENT LESSON | Wisdom 3:1-9 | Malique Fernander (Grandson) But the souls of the righteous are in the hand of God, and no torment will ever touch them. 2 In the eyes of the foolish they seemed to have died, and their departure was thought to be an affliction, 3 and their going from us to be their destruction; but they are at peace. 4 For though in the sight of men they were punished, their hope is full of immortality. 5 Having been disciplined a little, they will receive great good, because God tested them and found them worthy of himself; 6 like gold in the furnace he tried them, and like a sacrificial burnt offering he accepted them. 7 In the time of their visitation they will shine forth, and will run like sparks through the stubble.
8 They will govern nations and rule over peoples, and the Lord will reign over them for ever. 9 Those who trust in him will understand truth, and the faithful will abide with him in love, because grace and mercy are upon his elect, and he watches over his holy ones 23rd PSALM | St. Agnes Choir SECOND LESSON | Revelations 7:9-17‌ Adam Musgrove (Grand Nephew) 9 After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands; 10 And cried with a loud voice, saying, Salvation to our God which sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb. 11 And all the angels stood round about the throne, and about the elders and the four beasts, and fell before the throne on their faces, and worshipped God, 12 Saying, Amen: Blessing, and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and honour, and power, and might, be unto our God for ever and ever. Amen. 13 And one of the elders answered, saying unto me, What are these which are arrayed in white robes? and whence came they? 14 And I said unto him, Sir, thou knowest. And he said to me, These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. 15 Therefore are they before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in his temple: and he that sitteth on the throne shall dwell among them. 16 They shall hunger no more, neither thirst any more; neither shall the sun light on them, nor any heat. 17 For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes.
GRADUAL HYMN | Hark, My Soul, It Is The Lord Hark, my soul, it is the Lord! ’Tis thy Savior, hear His Word; Jesus speaks, and speaks to thee, “Say, poor, sinner, lovest thou Me?”
“Mine is an unchanging love, Higher than the heights above, Deeper than the depths beneath, Free and faithful, strong as death.
“I delivered thee when bound, And, when bleeding, healed thy wound; Sought thee wandering, set thee right, Turned thy darkness into light.
“Thou shalt see My glory soon, When the work of grace is done; Partner of My throne shalt be: Say, poor sinner, lovest thou Me?”
“Can a woman’s tender care Cease toward the child she bare? Yes, she may forgetful be, Yet will I remember thee.
Lord, it is my chief complaint That my love is weak and faint; Yet I love Thee, and adore: O for grace to love Thee more!
THE HOLY GOSPEL | Matthew 5:1-12 Tribute | Christine Adderley (Sister) Solo | Ishmael Lightbourne (Friend) SELECTION | St. Agnes Church Choir SERMON | Fr. I. Ranfurly Brown THE APOSTLE CREED CELEBRANT: Let us with confidence and hope confess the faith into which we were baptized, as we say, All: I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day He rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen. THE INTERCESSION | Christopher Adderley (Nephew) Brittany Sands (Grand Niece) Leader:
For our Sister Esther, let us pray to the Lord Christ who said, “I am Resurrection and I am life”.
Leader: Lord, you consoled Martha and Mary in their distress; draw near to us who mourn for our Sister Esther and dry the tears of those who weep. All: Hear, us Lord. Leader: All:
You wept at the grave of Lazarus your friend; comfort us in sorrow. Hear us, Lord.
Leader: All:
You raised the dead to life; Raise our Sister Esther to eternal life. Hear us, Lord.
Leader: All:
You promised paradise to the thief who repented; bring our Sister Esther the joys of heaven. Hear us, Lord.
Leader: Our Sister Esther was washed in baptism and anointed with the Holy Spirit; give her fellowship with all Your Saints. All: Hear us, Lord. Leader: All:
She was nourished with your Body and Blood; grant her a place at the table in your heavenly Kingdom. Hear us, Lord.
Leader: Comfort us in our sorrows at the death of our Sister Esther. Let our faith be our consolation, and eternal life our hope. All: Hear us, Lord. Silence may be kept. Celebrant: Lord Jesus Christ, we commend to you our sister who was reborn by water and the Spirit in Holy baptism. Grant that her death may recall to us your victory over death, and be an occasion for us to renew our trust in your Father’s love. Give us, we pray, the faith to follow where you have led the way and where you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, to the ages of ages. Amen. THE ACT OF PENITENCE Celebrant: If we say we have no sin we deceive ourselves, and the truth in not in us. If we confess our sins, God is faithful and just, and will forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. A period of silence shall be kept. Celebrant:
Let us therefore confess our sins.
All: Almighty God, our Heavenly Father, we have sinned against You and one another, in thought, word and deed, and in what we have left undone. We are sorry and repent of all our sins. For Your son, our Lord Jesus Christ’s sake, forgive us all that is past, and grant that we may serve You in newness of life to the glory of Your Name. Amen.
THE ABSOLUTION Celebrant: Almighty God, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness and keep you in life eternal; through Jesus Christ our Lord. All:
Amen.
THE PEACE Celebrant: We are the Body of Christ. By the one Spirit we were all baptized into one body and have all been made to drink of one spirit. All: Let us then pursue the things that make for peace and build up the common life. Celebrant: The peace of the Lord be always with you. All: And also with you. THE OFFERTORY HYMN |
Who Are These Like Stars Appearing
Who are these like stars appearing, these before God’s throne who stand? Each a golden crown is wearing; who are all this glorious band? Alleluia, hark, they sing, praising loud their heav’nly King.
These are they whose hearts were riven, sore with woe and anguish tried, who in prayer full oft have striven with the God they glorified; now, their painful conflict o’er, God has bid them weep no more.
Who are these of dazzling brightness, clothed in God’s own righteousness, these, whose robes of purest whiteness shall their lustre still possess, still untouched by time’s rude hand whence came all this glorious band?
These, the Almighty contemplating, did as priest before him stand, soul and body, always waiting day and night at his command: now, in God’s most holy place blest they stand before his face.
These are they who have contended for their Saviour’s honour long, wrestling on till life was ended, following not the sinful throng; these, who well the fight sustained, triumph through the Lamb have gained. OFFERTORY PRAYER Celebrant: Through your goodness, Lord, we have this bread and wine to offer, the fruit of the earth and the work of human hands. They will become our spiritual food. All:
All things come from you, O Lord, and of your own do we give you. Blessed be God forever. Amen.
THE PRESENTATION OF THE OFFERING ELEMENT BEARERS | Madison Roberts (Grand Niece) Kenji Sands (Grand Niece) Deyton Albury (Grand Nephew) HYMN | Through All The Changing Scenes of Life Through all the changing scenes of life, In trouble and in joy, The praises of my God shall still My heart and tongue employ.
Oh, make but trial of His love, Experience will decide How blest they are, and only they, Who in His truth confide.
Oh, magnify the Lord with me, With me exalt His name; When in distress to Him I called, He to my rescue came.
Fear Him, ye saints, and you will then Have nothing else to fear; Make you His service your delight, Your wants shall be His care.
The hosts of God encamp around The dwellings of the just; Deliverance He affords to all Who on His succor trust. THE EUCHARISTIC PRAYER Celebrant: All:
The Lord be with you. And also with you.
Celebrant: All:
Lift up your hearts. We lift them up to the Lord.
Celebrant: All:
Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. It is right to give God thanks and praise.
Celebrant: It is right and a good and joyful thing, always and everywhere to give You thanks, Father Almighty, everlasting God: Through Jesus Christ our Lord; Who rose victorious from the dead and comforts us with the blessed hope of life eternal. For to Your faithful people, O Lord, life is changed, not ended; and when our mortal body lies in death, there is prepared for us a dwelling place eternal in the heavens. Therefore we praise you, joining our voices with angels and archangels and with all the company of heaven, who forever sing this hymn to proclaim the glory of Your Name. All: Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might; heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is He who comes in the Name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest.
Celebrant: Sovereign Lord and Father, to You be glory and praise forever. In Your boundless wisdom You brought creation into being; in Your great love You fashioned us in Your image; in Your tender compassion You sent Your Son, Jesus Christ, our Saviour, to share our human nature; in the power of the Holy Spirit, He overcame the power of sin and death and brought Your people to new birth as first of Your new creation. On the night that He was betrayed, He took bread and when He had given thanks to You, He broke it and gave it to His disciples and said: “Take this and eat it: This is my Body which is given for you. Do this for the remembrance of Me.” And after supper He took the cup of wine: and when He had given thanks, He gave it to them and said: “Drink this, all of you: This is My Blood of the New Covenant, which is shed for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Whenever you drink it, do this for the remembrance of Me.” Celebrant:
Therefore, Father, according to the command of Your dearly beloved Son.
All:
We remember His death. We proclaim His resurrection. We await His coming in glory.
Celebrant: And we offer You, Father, our sacrifice of thanks and praise. Send Your Holy Spirit on these gifts of bread and wine that they may become the Body and Blood of Your Son, Jesus, our Lord and Redeemer. As we partake of this holy food of new and unending life, may Your Holy Spirit establish us as a royal priesthood with the Blessed Virgin Mary, St. Agnes and all Your sons and daughters who share in Your eternal inheritance; Through Jesus Christ our Lord. With Him and in Him and through Him, by the power of the Holy Spirit, we worship You, Father almighty, with all who stand before You in earth and heaven, in songs of everlasting praise. All:
Blessings and honour and glory and power be yours forever and ever. Amen.
THE LORD’S PRAYER: Celebrant:
As our Saviour has taught us, so we pray:
All: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your Name; Your kingdom come; Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Save us from the time of trial and deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are Yours, now and forever. Amen. THE BREAKING OF THE BREAD Celebrant:
We break this bread to share in the Body of Christ.
All:
Though we are many, we are one body, because we all share in one bread.
THE AGNUS DEI
Lamb of God, You take away the sin of the world: Grant her rest. Lamb of God, You take away the sin of the world: Grant her rest. Lamb of God, You take away the sin of the world: Grant her rest eternal.
Solo | Janet Dorsett (Friend) THE COMMUNION COMMUNION HYMNS: LOVE DIVINE, ALL LOVES EXCELLING Love divine, all loves excelling, joy of heaven, to earth come down, fix in us thy humble dwelling, all thy faithful mercies crown. Jesus, thou art all compassion, pure, unbounded love thou art; visit us with thy salvation; enter every trembling heart.
AND CAN IT BE And can it be that I should gain An interest in the Savior’s blood? Died He for me, who caused His pain— For me, who Him to death pursued? Amazing love! How can it be, That Thou, my God, shouldst die for me? ’Tis mystery all: thee Immortal dies: Who can explore His strange design? In vain the firstborn seraph tries To sound the depths of love divine. ’Tis mercy all! Let earth adore, Let angel minds inquire no more. He left His Father’s throne above So free, so infinite His grace— Emptied Himself of all but love, And bled for Adam’s helpless race: ’Tis mercy all, immense and free, For O my God, it found out me! Long my imprisoned spirit lay Fast bound in sin and nature’s night; Thine eye diffused a quickening ray I woke, the dungeon flamed with light; My chains feel off, my heart was free, I rose, went forth, and followed Thee.
Come, Almighty, to deliver, let us all thy grace receive; suddenly return, and never, never more thy temples leave. Thee we would be always blessing, serve thee as thy hosts above, pray and praise thee without ceasing, glory in thy perfect love.
Finish, then, thy new creation; pure and spotless let us be; let us see thy great salvation perfectly restored in thee: changed from glory into glory, till in heaven we take our place, till we cast our crowns before thee, lost in wonder, love and praise.
No condemnation now I dread; Jesus, and all in Him, is mine; Alive in Him, my living Head, And clothed in righteousness divine, Bold I approach thee eternal throne, And claim the crown, through Christ my own.
HERE, O MY LORD, I SEE THEE FACE TO FACE Here, O my Lord, I see Thee face to face; Here faith can touch and handle things unseen; Here grasp with firmer hand Thy grace, And all my weariness upon Thee lean. Here would I feed upon the Bread of God; Here drink with Thee the royal wine of heav’n; Here would I lay aside each earthly load; Here taste afresh the calm of sin forgiv’n. I have no help but Thine; nor do I need Another arm save Thine to lean upon; It is enough, my Lord, enough indeed; My strength is in Thy might, Thy might alone.
AND NOW, O FATHER, MINDFUL OF THE LOVE And now, O Father, mindful of the love That bought us, once for all, on Calvary’s tree, And having with us Him that pleads above, We here present, we here spread forth to Thee, That only offering perfect in Thine eyes, The one true, pure, immortal sacrifice. Look, Father, look on His anointed face, And only look on us as found in Him; Look not on our misusings of Thy grace, Our prayer so languid, and our faith so dim; For lo! between our sins and their reward, We set the passion of Thy Son our Lord.
And then for those, our dearest and our best, By this prevailing presence we appeal; O fold them closer to Thy mercy’s breast! O do Thine utmost for their souls’ true weal! From tainting mischief keep them white and clear, And crown Thy gifts with strength to persevere. And so we come; O draw us to Thy feet, Most patient Savior, who canst love us still! And by this food, so awful and so sweet, Deliver us from every touch of ill: In Thine own service make us glad and free, And grant us nevermore to part with Thee.
POST COMMUNION PRAYER All: Almighty God, we thank you that in Your great love You have fed us with the spiritual food and drink of the Body and Blood of your Son Jesus Christ, and have given us a foretaste of Your heavenly banquet. Grant that this Sacrament may be to us a comfort in affliction, and a pledge of our inheritance in that kingdom, where there is no death, neither sorrow nor crying, but the fullness of joy with your saints; through Jesus Christ our Saviour. Amen. POST COMMUNION HYMN | How Bright These Glorious Spirits Shine! How bright these glorious spirits shine! Whence all their white array? How came they to the blissful seats of everlasting day?
Hunger and thirst are felt no more, nor sun with scorching ray: God is their sun, whose cheering beams diffuse eternal day.
Lo! these are they from sufferings great who came to realms of light, and in the blood of Christ have washed those robes that shine so bright.
The Lamb, who dwells amid the throne, shall o’er them still preside, feed them with nourishment divine, and all their footsteps guide.
Now with triumphal palms they stand before the throne on high, and serve the God they love amidst the glories of the sky.
To Father Son and Holy Ghost the God whom we adore be glory as it was is now and shall be evermore
THE COMMENDATION: The president and other ministers take their place at the body: Celebrant:
Give rest, O Christ, to your servant(s) with your saints.
All: everlasting.
Where sorrow and pain are no more, neither sighing, but life
Celebrant: You only are immortal, the Creator and Maker of mankind; and we are mortal, formed of the earth and to earth shall we return. For so did you ordain when you created me, saying, “You are dust and to dust you shall return.” All of us go down to the dust: yet even at the grave we make our song: Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! All: Give rest, O Christ, to your servant(s) with your saints, where sorrow and pain are no more, neither sighing, but life everlasting. All: “Our Father…” Celebrant: Let us commend our brother/sister to the mercy of God our maker and Redeemer. Deliver your servant, Esther. O Sovereign Lord Christ, from all evil and set her free from every bond, that she may rest with all Your saints in the eternal habitations; where with the Father and the Holy Spirit you live and reign, one God forever and ever. All:
Amen.
Celebrant: Into your hands, O merciful Saviour, we commend your servant Esther. Acknowledge, we humbly beseech you, a sheep of your own fold, a lamb of your own flock, a sinner of your own redeeming. Receive her into the arms of your mercy, in the blessed rest of everlasting peace, and into the glorious company of the saints in light. All:
Amen.
Celebrant:
Let us go forth in the Name of Christ.
All:
Thanks be to God.
RECESSIONAL HYMN | All Hail The Power of Jesus’ Name! All hail the power of Jesus’ name! Let angels prostrate fall; Bring forth the royal diadem, And crown Him Lord of all.
Sinners, whose love can ne’er forget The wormwood and the gall, Go spread your trophies at His feet, And crown Him Lord of all.
Crown Him, ye morning stars of light, Who fixed this floating ball; Now hail the strength of Israel’s might, And crown Him Lord of all.
Let every tribe and every tongue Before Him prostrate fall And shout in universal song The crownèd Lord of all.
Crown Him, ye martyrs of your God, Who from His altar call; Extol the Stem of Jesse’s rod, And crown Him Lord of all. Ye seed of Israel’s chosen race, Ye ransomed from the fall, Hail Him who saves you by His grace, And crown Him Lord of all.
GRAVESIDE HYMNS: IT’S ALRIGHT NOW There was a time I travelled a lonely sinful road; Beneath a heavy burden bending low; But now all things are different, since Jesus took my load It’s alright now, I’m His I know. (Chorus) It’s alright now, for I am in my Saviour’s care It’s alright now; my Saviour hears and answers prayer He’ll walk with me, (He’ll walk beside me) Till I climb the heavenly stair, And everything (And everything is alright now)
A’ down a lonely pathway, without a friend to guide, I walked in sin and sorrow all alone ‘Till Jesus came and found me, and drew me to His side; It’s alright now, for I’m His own. No more in sin I wander, no more in darkness roam The Lord has placed my feet on higher ground; Each day new heights I’m gaining, my soul is nearing home, It’s alright now, I’m heaven bound.
WHEN PEACE LIKE A RIVER When peace, like a river, attendeth my way, when sorrows like sea billows roll; whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say, It is well, it is well with my soul. (Chorus) It is well, it is well, With my soul, with my soul, It is well; it is well, with my soul. 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. 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! 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
ABIDE WITH ME Abide with me; fast falls the eventide; The darkness deepens; Lord with me abide. When other helpers fail and comforts flee, Help of the helpless, O abide with me. Swift to its close ebbs out life’s little day; Earth’s joys grow dim; its glories pass away; Change and decay in all around I see; O Thou who changest not, abide with me. I need Thy presence every passing hour. What but Thy grace can foil the tempter’s power? Who, like Thyself, my guide and stay can be? Through cloud and sunshine, Lord, abide with me. I fear no foe, with Thee at hand to bless; Ills have no weight, and tears no bitterness. Where is death’s sting? Where, grave, thy victory? I triumph still, if Thou abide with me. Hold Thou Thy cross before my closing eyes; Shine through the gloom and point me to the skies. Heaven’s morning breaks, and earth’s vain shadows flee; In life, in death, O Lord, abide with me.
My Mother
Esther when we came to live with you 20 years ago it was a decision made because we always wanted to be there for you and to make sure that you were never alone. It was not easy at all times but we made it work. When we had our rows we would both call Chris to tell our sides but the next day we were talking like nothing happened. I will miss my night owl partner. Bucking up in the hall way some nights scaring each other. I have learned so much from you. It was not easy for you to show affection but the love you had for your entire family was evident. I spent so much time with you in the last 3 month and for that I am truly grateful to God for allowing us that time to say all we needed to say and to express the love and appreciation that we had for each other. I am so privileged to have experienced your encounter in the middle of the night with Jesus and now I know what my path has to be. Take your well-deserved rest. I know you went to a wonderful place. I love you. Say Hi to Mudda for me.
Malique’s Tribute
Grammy I was truly blessed to have had the opportunity to grow in the same house with you for most of my life. Grammy you were a beautiful soul who was both stern and caring. Nothing was too good for me. From monies for trips to all the expensive clothing you would buy for me on our family trips. You were a grandmother like no other. I will always remember our conversations we would have on the couch in your favorite spot and the way you would always ask me if I ate anything as soon as I came home from school. I will always remember your loud laugh and your even louder sneeze. The way you would have one eye on the TV and the other on what I was doing in the kitchen to make sure I didn’t leave anything out of order. You always liked everything in its place. I’ll always remember the way your sharp nails would hurt my ribs when you tried to tickle me. I know you’re watching over us all and smiling. I love you Grammo and I will always cherish the many memories we shared.
To my Sister,
This is one of the hardest things I have had to do in my life. Esther, you were always my favorite sister and we always expressed our love for each other verbally. We surely argued, but it never changed our love. You always told me that when I was born I was YOUR baby girl. As a teenager you took me under your wings. You never allowed anyone to take advantage of me, you sacrificed for me and I’m eternally grateful. You were my travelling partner and roommate. We danced, we laughed, we shopped, we cried, we fought, we ate, we drank‌together. How lucky am I to have had you as my sister. You will always be in my heart. Rest on my sister. No more needles, no more medicine, no more doctor visits. You have a new body now baby girl. We love you with all our hearts, Christine and Christopher.
Grammo,
You treated me like your very own son. I know that you were so proud of me because your friends told me you bragged about me at work. I will miss you every time I walk through that front door and miss enquiring if you missed me and if you brought me anything today. You were stern, strict and lots of fun. Whenever you were displeased with me you would blame Yolanda (Smile) never me. There will certainly be a void in our future trips and adventures but it will serve as a reminder of our many great ones together. Until we meet again Grammo. Cheers Love, Sean
Marcia Moss
In Our Minds.
And Jesus said “ Come and follow me” We all have friends, but how many of us are bless like me to have some super ones? True friends bail you out when the world walk out on you. Esther was a true friend. Today I have the task of paying tribute to my Good friend and can I say this is the hardest thing for me to do. Esther was a beautiful woman inside and out,she was a wonderful friend to me and my family supporting me in everything I did for over 30 years. She believe in me she was a pillow of strength to me. Her believe in life was to be authentic with everyone because it was good for the soul. There were times when we found it tough to discuss matters with our family members, it was occasions such as these that out friendship came into play. She understood me and loved me just the way I am, and dear anyone other than my mommy speak ill of me she was ready to fight. Lol. It was the heart -to-heart bonding that made our friendship so exclusive. I pray that her beautiful spirit lives on in her family whom she loved so much. She tried with all her heart to stay with you all but God called her and she had to go. When we love someone it’s so hard to see them go but God is faithful and he knows best. You will be more than just a memory to me, a million days will pass and I will feel you right here with me. The Lord told me it was him that took you. That’s fine with me, that’s all that matters. I now realize heaven was in NEED of a hero so he took you. I’ll see you again my friend. I’ll remember the joy the laughter the smiles and the fighters. I will cry and miss you so much but God has the final say. Goodbye my Good friend until we meet again.
We promise to cherish, our memories of you. You shall live in our minds and all that we do.
Love Always Marcia.
From your little sis, Florence, and the girls, Anissa & Nicole
We stand motionless, Consumed in grief. Sorrow has arrived, With smiles thief.
We’re gathered here, To mourn and cry. Our questions pointing, At the clear blue sky. Why did you go? Why did you leave? Life without you, Is hard to conceive. Our hearts are damaged, And scarred severely. We shall miss you, Much more than dearly. For having you in our lives, We’ve all been blessed. But now the time has arrived, for you to rest.
Remember Esther
I’ve thought about this and I’m pretty sure I’m right by saying, for me, Auntie Esther being in heaven is no different to Auntie Esther being in the Bahamas. We are still apart so really the distance doesn’t matter, and who knows, maybe she’s closer to me now than ever before. I also may see Auntie Esther before I see you guys again. So Yolanda , tomorrow can you tell her I miss her very much and was very sad to hear she’d moved on, but for some reason in my heart I know for sure she is very happy now. I know it like any other fact on this earth. For that reason it would be selfish of me not to be happy for her. So I accept her passing and look forward to her showing me around heaven. Just like she showed me around Nassau in that little blue car of hers. It’s a bit on the not so serious side but that’s me and that’s how I feel. And I would hate for this time to pass knowing I didn’t have a word to her. George Evans New Zealand
Acknowledgment
Words cannot begin to express our gratitude to you. Your acts of kindness caring, phone calls, WhatsApp Inspiration, visits, gifts and prayers uplifted and comforted us. Our sorrow is easier to bear because of God’s Love and Care and the help of people like you. May God Bless You. The Family
HONOURARY PALLBEARERS George Delancy John Adderley Kendrick Sands Sean Fernander Patrick Adderley Ivan Deveaux Tyrone Neely Arnold Gibson
ACTIVE PALLBEARERS Charles Gardiner William Armbrister Michael Albury Tristan Miller Shamal Henfield Christopher Adderley Vaughn Gibson Anthony Musgrove Kyle Munroe Malique Fernander Derron Strachan
Funeral Service Entrusted To:
Provided by SIDDA Communications Group P.O. Box N-1026 Nassau Street Nassau, Bahamas 242.322.4433 (T) • 242.328.2314 (F) 242.422.1033 (M)
Tel: 394-BOOK (2665) Mobile: (242) 818-3478 Email: info@siddagroup.com Nassau, N.P. Bahamas