Original Memory Book for Grace Bassett-Johnson

A MEMORIAL SERVICE TO CELEBRATE THE LIFE OF

Emmanuel Gospel Chapel, Emmanuel Way Friday, August 13 2021 10:00 am

“His Grace Is Sufficient…”

Obituary

1948 was a very special year. It was the year that pacifist Mahatma Ghandi was assassinated

by Hindu extremist Nathuram Godse. That year, the now famous WHO was established in the United Nations. And most notably, Israel won the 7 day war with the Arabs over Haifa, a major port in Israel. And while those events are significant and noteworthy, what made 1948 extra special was the because of something that happened on November 3rd, the birth of a beautiful baby girl named Grace Geanette to Amy Dean and Samuel Minnis in a settlement far away in a place called Long Island in the Bahamas.

As was customary in those days, parents often went off to other islands nearby to make a living and would leave their children with parents and other family members to bring them up. Grace was left with her paternal grandmother, Alice Minnis who Grace called, Mama.

The father figure in her life was her maternal grandfather, John Strachan, who she called Papa. She often spoke of her Mama and Papa with great love over the years. They lived in the Clarence Town settlement on Long Island where Grace would spend all of her years until she wed in 1966.

Long Island was (and is) a hard place to live. And a hard place produces hardened, tough people. Mama and Papa were tough and strong and Grace was hammered out and chiseled with the same instruments that made Long Island people strong and hard. Long Islanders knew (and know) how to weather any storm. They lived off of the land as farmers and out of the sea as fishermen. They worked hard and long, as they do to this day, without much need from outside help, some of the most self sufficient people you will encounter in this life. (I’m laughing in my mind, as I can hear them saying now to outsiders looking for work on the island, “No that’s OK, we good. No workers needed here.”)

She often spoke of childhood shenanigans with her cousins and friends Sandra, Lea, Kermit and Cleveland, and regaled us with stories of their adventures. We often heard the names of others who were near and dear to her like Lolita, Ida, Carmy, Aunt Edna, Carmen, Spence, Gina, Rena, Ruth, Sarah, and twin cousins, Edwin and Mahlon. Most of them are still here to remember their good times together.

1966 brought on a major life change for Grace. She got married! Grace was united in holy

matrimony to Copeland Bassett, a parts manager at the Diamond Crystal Salt Company in Long Island. Copeland, or Copie as he was called, had come to the Bahamas from the Dominican Republic where he had lived for over 25 years. He was previously married and came with his children, Ernesto, Nayo and Lillian.

The following year would become momentous for Grace as she welcome the birth of her first child, a 7.5 lb boy who they named, Samuel Marcellus. It was not too long after that they moved to Grand Bahama and welcomed the birth of their 2nd son, Marcus Sebastian. They remained there for two years until deciding to move to Nassau, where they would have their 3 daughters, Sandra Michelle, Melisande Sergia and Sanchia Milagros. In December of 1991, Grace lost her husband Copeland to heart failure. She later remarried to her friend of many years, Ornan Johnson in 1999 and they have remained married until the day of her passing. Mr. J. visited Grace every day during her illness. He would make the long trek from Carmichael to Nassau East to spend the day with her. And though Grace is passed, he will remain a part of our family always.

It was 1971, they had just moved to Nassau and Grace needed to work. For years she served well as a monitor in the all age schools in Long Island and had developed a love for teaching. She decided to enroll at the Bahamas Teachers Training College (now University of the Bahamas). She obtained her teaching Associate of Arts in teacher training and began a career that lasted over 40 years. She did teacher training at Kingsway Academy and then moved on to other schools. Over the years she has taught at Chippingham Primary, Willard Patton Primary and Sandilands Primary where she officially retired from government service. She later went back into teaching at Kingsway Academy where she taught for a few years before retiring officially from work.

Grace shone as a teacher. She was a disciplinarian, but her students always knew that she loved them. There are many students with whom she has developed wonderful

relationships over the years. To this day, they speak fondly of her and the cherished memories they will forever hold in their hearts. She went beyond duties as a teacher and ministered to the needs of many of her students who were from poor families. One former student reminded one of Grace’s daughters of a time when he and his mother were about to be evicted from their apartment and had nowhere to go. Grace went and got the money to give to his mother and saved them from their extreme moment of uncertainty.

This gives us a glimpse of the kind of person Grace was. She was a friend to the friendless, a mother to the motherless and a help to the helpless. She would send her children on many an errand to deliver money or food or clothing to someone in need. She took in her children’s friends as her own and they all felt welcomed and loved by her. A few of them even lived in her home when situations were not good with them. This was the kind of person Grace was.

And where did this all come from? It came from the transformation in her life after she committed her life to Jesus Christ during a service by a young Evangelist, Rex Major in Long Island. Rex Major lead Grace to the foot of the Cross of Christ and there she placed their faith in Him and became transformed. Grace’s faith and transformation was evident in her life. She would often give to ministers of the Gospel and to Christian work. She loved God’s people, Israel and often financially supported anything related to helping impoverished Jews.

Grace spoke often of her Lord. She was unashamed to witness for Him and only the Lord will know the numbers of children she lead to Him for salvation. She loved her children, she loved her grandchildren, she loved those who had no mother or grandmother, she loved and helped those in need and she loved her Lord! What a wonderful life of selfless commitment to her God and to His people.

On the morning of July 25, Grace was called by her Lord to come Home. Her children and grandchildren bear witness to this most wonderful woman who God put on the earth for what seems like a very short time. We can raise our glasses high in that Heavenly banquet of God’s choosing and shout well done Queen Grace, Daughter of the Most High God! Well done!

Her children rise in great chorus as we shout gladly and loudly across the cosmos, “Thank you blessed mother for all you have done and the amazing love you have shown us. Thank you for making God known to us through your example!” Enjoy your reward and we look forward to seeing you again and to know you and love you in ways that we cannot now express, that day when our God brings us all together to live and reign with Him in the new world that He has created. We will celebrate with you, our Amazing Grace!

Left to cherish her memories are: (She was predeceased by her Mother: Amy Dean, Father: Samuel Minnis)

Husband: Ornan Johnson; Sons: Marcellus (Juanita) Bassett, Marcus (Emma) Bassett; Daughters: Michelle (Kirk) Rolle, Dr. Melisande Bassett-Collie (Tamecko), Sanchia Bassett-Watkins (Pablo); Stepsons: Nayo Bassett, Luther (Paula) Johnson; Grandchildren: Eboni (Cecil) Roberson, Kai Bassett, Ethynn Pinder, Justis Bassett, Tatum Watkins, Talia Watkins, Grace Bassett, Jamie Hepburn, Kyle Bodie, Antonio, Joel and Karis Collie, Kirissa and Kirsten Rolle; Aunt: Allerdyce Strachan; Brothers: Drexel Dean, John (Natasha) Saunders and Cecil Saunders; Sisters: Angela Strachan, Miriam (Edward) Manigualt; Childhood Companion/Cousin: Sandra Turnquest; Nieces: Inza (Prince) Moore, Dr. Natasha (Ron) Moyron, Tina Nixon, Astrid Rolle, Theresa Woodside; Nephews: Ronald (Dominique), Wayne (Natchie), Ansel (Garnel), Shenandoah, (Tamara), and Lamon (Megan) Dean, Robert Strachan, Quillan and Pharez Cooper, Sean and Jawaan Stuart, Jeroen, Jarred, Jayden and Jayvon Saunders; Numerous Grand and Great Grand nieces and nephews; Honorary Sisters: Delores Bowe, Ida and Carmel Major, Sheila Thompson, Thea Lawson, Joycelyn Smith, Vandolyn Moss, Vandolyn Mortimer, Shirley Braynen, Margarite Bethel, Sharon Timothy, and June Walker; Adopted Daughters: Racquel and Brittany Ferguson, Mitzi Destamas, and Tanya McKenzie; Special Friends: Vernita Rolle, Hilda Small, Lolita Ramirez, Nichelle Coley; Other relatives and friends including: Preston Strachan, Christopher Richardson and family, Gloria Crawford and family, Joseph Dorsette and family, Christopher Strachan and family, Dion Strachan and family, Wendy Darling and family, Christopher Strachan and family, Mavis Chea and family, Constance Deveaux and family, Veronica Byron and family, Deidre, Stanley, Yvette, Bradley, Rose, Christopher, Sherilyn, and Cheril Strachan, Bennett Minnis and family, Carmel Williamson and family, Regina, Spence, Maurice, Marina, Edward, Kent, Tex, Pat, Shawn, Charmaine and Charlene Minnis, Morlese Strachan-Walker, Patricia, Eloise, and Constance Strachan, Alice Seymour, Sarah McKenzie and family, Sis Mary Benedict, Viola Wilson, Faith Ene, Gloria and Joshua Major and family, Rose Edgecombe and family, Cassandra Smith, Tammy McPhee-Miller, Charmaine Young and family, Ricardo Forbes, Reginald, Charles, Francis and Oscar Hunt, Maris Sands-Miller, the Mackey family of Florida including: Florence, Mildred, Inez, Loretta, Thalia, Elizabeth and Daniel, Irma Adderly, Guild and Lynnmore Wells and family, Darlene Rolle, the Small family, Delores Major-Rahming, Tim (Cozetta), Kesten Timothy, Meoshe; Brady Medris, Florence and Jackie (Mabree) Johnson, Julia Neily, Lynkeisha and Vestra Adderley, Sharon Bosfield, Christine Richards, Nelson Musgrove and family, Renee Hanna, Andre Culmer, Antoinette Knowles and Family, Leroy and Melody Hanna and family, Pastor Rex Major and family, Marjorie Treco and family, The Emmanuel Gospel Chapel Family, The Simms, Turnquest, Minnis, Pratt, Dawkins, Newman, and Strachan Families and The Clarence Town Community; The Columbus Primary School Family; Bahamas Doctors’ Union; former students and colleagues of Willard Patton Primary School, Sandilands Primary School, and Kingsway Academy Elementary; Philipa Smith, Lorna Glinton, Abbey Rigby and family, The Grace Community Church Family, and others too numerous to mention.

Sequence of Events Moderator | Everette Evans Call To Worship/Opening Prayer | Pastor Jeff Evans Opening Hymn | Praise To The Lord, The Almighty

Praise to the Lord, the Almighty, the King of creation!

O my soul, praise him, for he is your health and salvation!

Come, all who hear; now to his temple draw near, join me in glad adoration.

Praise to the Lord, above all things so wondrously reigning; sheltering you under his wings, and so gently sustaining!

Have you not seen all that is needful has been sent by his gracious ordaining?

Praise to the Lord, who will prosper your work and defend you; surely his goodness and mercy shall daily attend you.

Ponder anew what the Almighty can do, if with his love he befriends you. ‘ Praise to the Lord! O let all that is in me adore him!

All that has life and breath, come now with praises before him.

Let the Amen sound from his people again; gladly forever adore him.

Old Testament Scripture Reading | Psalms 34:1 - 8 | Mrs. Emma Bassett

Hymn Of Praise | I Shall Live Sung To The Tune Of Be Still My Soul I then shall live as one who’s been forgiven.

I’ll walk with joy to know my debts are paid.

I know my name is clear before my Father; I am His child and I am not afraid.

So, greatly pardoned, I’ll forgive my brother; The law of love I gladly will obey.

Your Kingdom come around and through and in me; Your power and glory, let them shine through me.

Your Hallowed Name, O may I bear with honor, And may Your living Kingdom come in me.

The Bread of Life, O may I share with honor, And may You feed a hungry world through me.

I then shall live as one who’s learned compassion.

I’ve been so loved, that I’ll risk loving too.

I know how fear builds walls instead of bridges; I’ll dare to see another’s point of view.

And when relationships demand commitment, Then I’ll be there to care and follow through.

As I Knew Her | Bishop Victor Cooper Special Video Presentation Remarks | Pastor Paul Hepburn Hymn | I’m Glad I Counted The Cost When first I started to seek the Lord, I’m glad I counted the cost; I fully measured my Jesus’ Word; I’m glad I counted the cost.

I laid my sorrows at Jesus’ feet, I’m glad I counted the cost; And now I’ve pleasures so pure and sweet, I’m glad I counted the cost.

I’ve bid farewell to this world of sin, I’m glad I counted the cost; And now my Jesus abides within, I’m glad I counted the cost.

(Chorus) I’ve paid the price and obtained the prize, He saved my soul that was lost; And now my treasures are in the skies, I’m glad I counted the cost.

I cast on Jesus my every care, I’m glad I counted the cost; And all my burdens He helps to bear, I’m glad I counted the cost. ’Twill not be long till the Lord shall come, I’m glad I counted the cost; And bear my soul to that heav’nly home, I’m glad I counted the cost.

New Testament Scripture | Romans 8:35-39 | Pastor Tamecko Collie Special Music | Excellence Ministry Of The Word | Pastor Emeritus Rex Major Prayer For The Family | Pastor Benjamin Smith Closing Hymn | And Can It Be And can it be that I should gain An interest in the Savior’s blood?

Died He for me, who caused His pain— For me, who Him to death pursued?

Amazing love! How can it be, That Thou, my God, shouldst die for me?

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.

’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.

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.

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!

Benediction

Committal Service Officiants | Pastors of Emmanuel Opening Sentences Hymn | It is Well 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.

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!

(Chorus) It is well, it is well, With my soul, with my soul, It is well; it is well, with 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

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.

Committal Benediction

TRIBUTE TO GRACE From Ornan Johnson, Husband

You went about doing deeds of kindness, never mentioning what you did or who you helped. You were a very private person who gave unselfishly of your time to assist others while expecting nothing in return.

Grace you where one of the most talented individuals I have known. My most fond memory of you showing your talent was when we got married and you sewed your own wedding dress. It was amazing!

The ornamental pieces that you made and how you placed them on the dress was ingenious. And I think about your ability to write. The plays you wrote were very good.

My love you left too soon, before the creative genius in you was fully realized. I now reminisce on our life together and it breaks my heart that I can’t speak to you anymore.

Sleep on Grace, my love take your rest, I love you but Jesus loves you best, until we meet again.

Ornan

Tribute to Mummy

That dark day when the doctor gave us the news, it was as if we were all diagnosed with your illness. I knew that our lives would never be the same again. I am glad that we were all there with you when the doctor gave the dreaded news. Thoughts raced through my mind and I remember not wanting to go through this again, but this time with my mother, the one who gave me life.

The next six months would not be easy, especially for you, but we thank God that you had no pain, at least no pain in your body. But it was hard to watch you waste away as we stood by helplessly, wanting so badly for you to just get up out of your bed whole, healed. But now you are healed, in the absolute best way a person can be healed. You are in that Place we call Home. You have no more heartaches, no more sorrows, no more sickness and in the presence of the One who saved you by His mighty power over sickness and death itself.

What a legacy and a good name you have left behind. You were a powerful example of what it means to be a mother, a grandmother, a friend, an educator and a human being. You raised us well. You were by no means perfect, but you passed the test with excellent marks, with distinction! You’ve made our lives rich with meaning, character, personality, talents and a rich deposit of God in each of us. You were present.

You were kind. You were strict. You had that unique blend of Long Island hardness and the softness that made us feel at home.

I will always remember your kindness and your love, not only to your children and your grandchildren, but to countless others who needed a helping hand, a friend or a mother because they had none. Sometimes I admit, I was jealous of that but that’s my right as a child.

I enjoyed the life lessons. I learned from you how to wash clothes, to clean the house, to make moderations to my own clothing. Hey, I can hem pants, taper the legs, take in the waist, by hand and with a sewing machine! I can cook! I am not afraid of hard work. I can go in the yard with a pick axe or mix cement because of your hard working, Long Island spirit.

I thank God that you were an excellent teacher. It has immeasurably affected our lives, the lives of your grandchildren and the lives of thousands of children who have had the privilege of calling you their teacher.

I cherish the precious memories: watching you cook and bake (aahh the smell of that baked bread!), the many times at the beach, the stories of Mama and Papa in Long Island, Salt Pond, Clarence Town. The stories of your adventures with Sandra and Lea…and I will always remember our trip to Long Island, when you showed us around – where you and daddy lived, the house where I was born, where Sam and Amy lived and the different settlements that you always spoke of with such fondness. It was truly a special moment for me. I loved the stories of you and daddy’s moments of commitment to Christ under the preaching of Evangelist Rex Major, whom I have come to know as a dear father, in life and in the faith. And it is he who speaks at your service today, as you would have it to be.

So my dear Mummy you are gone, taken home by the Lord himself.

How now shall we live? We will do as you have done.

We will love our children and bring them up in the fear and admonition of the Lord. We will feed those who are hungry. We will be father and mother to those who have none. We will give shelter to those in need of a place to stay. We will work hard in all things.

We will give unselfishly. We will love the Lord Jesus Christ and His people and will look forward to His coming and that day when we will see Him and see you again.

I wish I had more time Mummy, more time to pass by your house, more time for our long talks, more times to help you clean the yard, more times to hug you, more times to say I love you. I was the one to make you a mummy for the first time, and I was the only one there when you passed, as is fitting. I will love you forever, my Amazing Grace. Thank you for being such a wonderful mother and grandmother to all of us! What a wonderful day that will be when we see you again in glory, when our Lord unites us in a far better union.

I love you Mummy, Marcel.

My Precious Mummy.

She was so many things to so many people.

In my life time, I have met and known many people who have added tidbits of things and value to my existence, but mummy was by far the greatest influence of them all. She instilled morals, manners, kindness and godliness into the lives of her children and I consciously value it always. She had a way of being loving and stern, whenever needed. These pillars of righteousness are what made us who we are today.

The one thing mummy was known for, was her kindness that could not be denied or ignored. Over the years I have seen her give to so many people. I have witnessed giving out clothes, money, groceries and often transported persons in her vehicle. Every summer she made uniforms for many children going back to school and never charged them a dollar. Her kindness, patience and love for others is something I try to emulate. When someone met mummy for the first time, it wouldn’t be long until they were pulled in by her infectious personality.

Her students adored her. A few years ago, I was pulled over by a police officer for running a traffic light and I gave him the driver’s license and insurance as I was instructed. When he saw my last name he said, “Is your mother still living?” and I said, “Yes Sir.” He said, “She used to teach me. Tell her so and so said hello.” And he let me go with a warning.

I remember when we were children, mummy would stop to the fabric store and while we waited in the car, she would be in the store picking out patterns and fabric to make herself outfits of all kinds. So many people didn’t know that most of the clothing that she wore, she made herself. She was resourceful and very hard working. Her Long Island upbringing taught her the value of things.

Speaking of Long Island, in 2007, I had the privilege of going to Long Island with her. She was so excited to be back home and I had so many questions and she showed me all of the key places that brought to life many of the stories she and daddy told us as children. It was one of my fondest memories as an adult with her. I really miss her.

Most of the other siblings might agree that I was probably the one who she worried about the most - from the “going missing” a few times, to the many car accidents I was in and to eating from strangers on the side of the road. I’ll never forget we were at the light heading west on Wulff road and a man was sitting on the step of Annex Baptist Church, eating a juicy corn on the cob. I sat in the back seat of the car on the left, looking out the window of the car gazing intensely at the man as he gnawed at the corn.

The man watched me as I watched him and he finally asked me if I wanted some and I said yes. So he passed me the corn and I dove right in. We were all the way to Meadow Street and mummy who knew nothing of it, heard me sucking on the corn bone and said, “MARC! WHAT ARE YOU EATING?” I said, “This corn.” WHERE DID YOU GET THAT FROM?” I said, “From one man.” “SPIT THAT OUT!” Sorry mummy.

Thank you mummy for the fun times and wonderful upbringing, for the righteousness you have deposited in us, for your good example to us, for the chastisement, for the prayers. You were a precious gem of a gift from GOD to us and so many others and I will be forever grateful to you for it. Well these are the last days so looks like we will see each other soon.

Love you Mummy.

Your Son, Marc

Hey beautiful,

I still find it hard to believe that you’re no longer with us. I wake each morning thinking it’s all a bad dream....but the ache in my heart reminds me that it’s real. You’re gone.

I love and miss you so much. In our last days together I told you that often. I missed the way we would talk on the phone for the longest. I miss knowing that I could call you and ask you to pray for me whenever I’m going through something that only the Lord can fix. I knew that once you petitioned with me, everything would be alright.

So devoted to your God, you never stopped encouraging your children and grandchildren to live the same way. Thank you for being an exemplary Christian example for us.

Mummy, you were always there whenever my children and I had a need. We never had to ask, it’s like you always knew.

Thank you for helping me raise Eboni, loving and taking care of her as though you’d given birth to her.

I’ve watched you over the years take care of so many people.

Even when some tried to take advantage of your kind heart, you never stopped giving.

I know our Father has special rewards lined up in heaven for you. You deserve every one of them. The Angels are celebrating your new life and so will we. Knowing you’re with our heavenly Father and that very soon we will see you again eases the pain a little.

I love you Mummy. Until I see you again, sleep on in the ever loving arms of our Lord and Savior.

Mitch.

Gone but not forgotten Gone but not forgotten, cliched, I know, but as I look around me it rings so true. The legacy you left is seen in many of the lives you touched and more importantly in your children. My fondest memories of you are your love of those in need, and your penchant for giving, your creativity and love for people.

Growing up, I recall that you kept disposable containers in the house to give food to the many persons that came for a meal or clothing. While we were in no way rich, you always found something to give them. This spirit of generosity continued up to your death; even though you were ill, weeks before your passing, you wanted to make sure that we gave your money to people, strangers that you supported monthly.

That example is etched indelibly on your children. I see that reflected in Marcellus, who consistently prepared meals for, took care of an elderly man who he met on the streets. In Milagros, who prepared from her own money, food boxes for needy families in her area during the first wave of the pandemic. In Marc, who also takes care of the homeless and mentors troubled youth. In Mitch, who would give her last to persons asking for food on the streets. In me, as I feel most fulfilled when working in soup kitchens or helping the elderly.

Your creativity was impressive, your skit writing, arts and craft, Marc inherited the ability to draw; Marcel’s has a talent for graphics and media production; Michelle’s passion for drama and the arts; Milagros who is a brilliant writer, and my ability to sew.

We have all inherited your passion for the Gospel as you and my father (deceased) led my siblings and me to Christ at an early age. We inherited your love for the down trodden, the underdog—she always spoke up for those that had no voice. For anyone who knows any of her children, this is where that trait comes from.

Those who knew you well know how generous you were, experienced your love, and the ease with which you gave it. In your latter years, we your children –and their spouses by extension—were the principal beneficiaries. Your willingness to stand on lines to make bill payments when time did not allow us to do so, was a sacrifice you made often. Your tradition to decorate all of our Christmas trees (with ornaments your bought or made) each year was your gift each year. You planted trees in our yards, cooked meals just because, kept most of your grands until they were ready for primary school. You moved out of your house for eighteen months to care for our sister when she became ill. You were a source of comfort and joy to all who knew and loved you. Those that didn’t missed out.

I know Heaven rejoiced at your arrival, all the little children there have a “Nana” who gives the best hugs. Heaven now has an experienced gardener, bread maker, best peas soup maker, seamstress, teacher, writer and friend. Yours was a life well lived, I will miss you dearly but will look at my siblings and the people whose lives you touched for reflections of you.

You are gone but cannot be forgotten!

Melisande Bassett-Collie

To My “Favourite” Mommy These past few weeks without you have left me feeling lost. You seemed larger than life and too valuable to ever not be here. I have loved you longer than I have loved anyone else in my life and your leaving is helping me to understand the immense depths of that love. There is absolutely no love like that of a caring mother and you took that love to another level with us, our spouses, children and even our friends. You loved us and we loved you in return.

This is undoubtedly the toughest battle of my life, and while teaching me everything about life, you neglected to teach me how to do it without you. But as I ponder my fear of a future without you, I am reminded of the faith in God’s promises that you never let me forget. So, while I may not know how to live without you, I move ahead with the hope of someday being reunited with you.

Taking care of you for the last seven months was not easy by any stretch of the imagination. With all the obvious challenges of care giving, the most heartbreaking was watching you succumb to the monster ravishing your beautiful body. You were so full of life and love, and it was painful to see you lose the things that made you, you. You often reminded me of how much you appreciated these sacrifices and I only wanted you to remember that you were loved and wanted and never a burden.

You poured so much into Pablo, Tatum, Talia and me. You were always, ALWAYS there when we needed you. You faithfully picked up your grandkids from school and attended all their ceremonies. Nana was just everywhere!!

Oh Mommy, I am going to miss you so terribly. You were my model of how to treat others no matter their social status, occupation, shade of brown, nationality, education, or anything else that people judge others by. You respected everyone, loved hard, gave freely, helped wherever you could, and you did it without needing an audience or anything in return.

You modeled how to be an educator who teaches from the heart and not just the book. I see so much of you in me on the inside and out.

You never really left because your children and grandchildren have so much of your goodness in them. Your legacy may not be riches or anything tangible, but you have left behind world changers who are not ashamed of the Gospel of the triune God you loved with all your being. I am determined to see you again.

Milagros (Lalo)

TRIBUTE FROM EBONI ROBERSON, Granddaughter

The memories we share, are unmatched. We were inseparable, the real life Ber Bookie and Ber Rabbi. Anywhere you went, you can be sure enough I was right behind you. From the day I entered this world, to the day God called you home, you were my best-friend and will forever be in this life and the next. I am not ready to face this world head on without you, or your advice but I know with the knowledge and wisdom you instilled I can do all things through Christ. Sleep on my beautiful Island Queen.

I love you Nana Banana

TRIBUTE FROM ETHYNN PINDER, Grandson

Nana I miss you. It does not feel right not having you around. I will miss all the trips to the beach we took after school. The way you cared for all of us and loved all of us will always put a smile on my face.

You always pushed me to do well in school and I wish you could see me now. Though I did not get to say goodbye, I know you loved us, and it’s never goodbye only see you soon, because I know you’re with God and I will see you again.

Love, Ethynn

TRIBUTE FROM GRACE BASSETT, Granddaughter

Nanna, I know you are in Heaven, sending kisses and love to you from Grace to Grace.

God bless u Nanna

TRIBUTE FROM TALIA WATKINS, Granddaughter

Nana’s last words to me were “I love you.” She was the best to me. I love her and I always will! She babysat me and she used to pick me up from school. She always used to buy me stuff. I will never forget her.

Talia

TRIBUTE FROM JUSTIS BASSETT, Grandson My Nanna was a very nice, loving and caring person. She would always pick me and my sister up from school if my parents couldn’t. She would always use kind words because she always wanted us to use proper words and be kind to others. I just missed the way that she smiled, I also miss seeing her sew and make handmade crafts for church and for other people.

She would buy us popsicles and ask us to save the sticks for her so she can make little houses and benches out of it. The thing I miss the most about her was the stories that she used to tell about Long Island and where she use to live, and if we ever needed advice for planting she was the person to talk to. Even though we used to see her all the time I just feel like 12 years wasn’t enough. I love her very much and I hope to see her in Heaven one day.

You’re Grandson Justis

TRIBUTE FROM KAI BASSETT, Grandson

I just want to say thank you Nana.

Thank you for all the times that you picked me up from school.

Thank you for attending all of my awards ceremonies.

Thank you for all the Sundays spent at your house.

Thank you for all the events that you came to support, like sports sports day.

Thank you for all the times that you took us for food after school even though the distance was so far away.

Thank you for all the times that you have inspired me or encouraged me.

Thank you for helping break out of shyness.

Thank you for all the moments that we cherished together.

Thank you for having such a great impact on my life.

I will miss you greatly.

TRIBUTE FROM TATUM WATKINS, Granddaughter

My Nana was the most respectful, beautiful, determined, hard working, and intelligent lady I have ever met. Nana always encouraged me to excel in all I do and to be honest, respectful, and ladylike. As hard as it is for me to think that such a rare lady as Nana is no longer here today, I am delighted to have had her in my life. Nana was always willing to provide for others even if it meant not being able to provide for herself. Nana always reminded me to do what Christ would do, and to this very day I still hear her soft spoken voice repeating it to me. Nana always reminded me to be slow to anger and quick to love. She always made sure her family had more than enough. She loved caring for her garden and spending time with her grandchildren. Nana was my best friend, I could talk to her about anything and I knew she wouldn’t tell anyone. I will forever love my Nana and can’t wait to see her again.

Tatum

To My Darling Cousin Grace, You loved your family so much that is why we were always happy to see you. We will miss you but you have a special place in our hearts. Sleep in Jesus. Love you.

Maris Wallace-Sands-Miller.

Grace,

We had so many great years growing up together. The memories of our childhood will forever be in my heart. You were a wonderful big sister/cousin.

Times were rough when we were growing up. We had to carry buckets of water on our head full to the brim and go in the field/farm to get wood to cook with. But whatever we did we had a great time.

The school was not far from our house so Mama did not let us leave home until the first bell rang. She expected us to be home minutes after she heard the bell for dismissal.

Grace and I would go fishing in the pond in the tar drum boat crafted by Kermit and Cleveland Major. She had a mark on her leg to tell the tale of that boat.

We built traps to catch doves which we cook and ate. Summer time we had fun picking up fish in the pond that were affected by the heat.

There are just so many beautiful memories. The good times we shared will always be in my heart.

Grace, I Love you.

Your Sister/Cousin, Sandra

As I Knew Her English Playwright, Poet and actor William Shakespeare, is credited with saying” all the world’s a stage, we make our exits and entrances.” Some thirty (30) years ago, I had the singular honor of meeting and working with Grace.

She served with me as a teacher extraordinaire. It was evident to me that this was not just a profession for her but a vocation.

As I recall, her life one could not miss that she was a born again believer, if you missed it, she had no difficulty in declaring it.

Grace, the teacher loved her children unconditionally, yes, she was their defender and protector.

She believed the mantra, educate today for a better tomorrow. This was seen as she came prepared to work every day. She was an example of the believer, thus she deported herself accordingly , in her dress code, and mannerisms.

Back then, we didn’t have Master teacher status, but, she was one in every sense of the word.

Then, in addition to her teaching profession, she was a unionist at heart. And she defended her colleagues with the same passion she did for her students.

Occasionally, we had to cross paths, and generally whatever situation arose we dealt with it in an amicable manner. Thankfully, she was my friend.

Completing an ACR was never difficult, because she went beyond the call of duty in her teaching career.

In conclusion, like Shakespeare, she was our playwright, actor and director, She was credited with winning the floating trophy for our school for three years in a row and as a result, we kept the trophy from floating.

Moreover, she and several other teachers I called them the Golden Girls, would stage performances for our special assemblies, I believe she was Blossie, Maebell and Ophelia, the others slip my memory.

As she exits, this chapter of her life, she’s left us with indelible memories of the many lives she touched over the course of her teaching career, without a doubt this Bahamas is better for her having crossed the stage.

May She Rest In Peace And Rise In Glory.

By Bishop Victor Cooper

Mrs. Grace Johnson Here’s to a Lady… Worthy of Praise

When the Creator of the universe extended His grace to us, He offered the gift of salvation. And, when He lent us our Grace Johnson, not only did she embrace His grace, but she exuded its essence and demonstrated its beauty in her graceful walk among us.

I experienced more of God’s grace when I joined the staff of Kingsway Academy in 2007, and had the distinct privilege of meeting and working with this classy woman of God. It didn’t take long for me to discover that God had been faithful in providing for me, for, here I was in a rather new environment, working side by side with an experienced, no nonsense, committed, resilient and devoted Christian educator.

Ms. J, as we soon began calling her, was no ordinary educator. She was a well read, well-bred resource person who gave to others unreservedly. Her students got the best and they knew…her colleagues had her support and appreciated it. She amassed and shared great knowledge of the Bahamian culture and the world and knew how to impart that knowledge simply. So much so, that the smallest among us could comprehend. Excellence was her passion. With poise, dignity and quiet, gentle grace, she made a positive impact on the lives of those with whom she interacted. Beneath the calm, graceful exterior was a woman who had no tolerance for slackness and indiscipline. She said what she meant and meant what she said. She defended the weak and fed the poor.

There was no question about Ms. J’s loyalty to her God, to her family and to her country! And yes, she had the capacity to love beyond borders, for in her, I found a sister and a friend. This profound expression of grace and love for excellence can be seen as it trickles down to her children and grandchildren. May the God of all comfort keep them in His loving care during these trying times.

Indeed, our Ms. J,…. Nana, as the little ones call her, was a godly woman with a passion for excellence and truth. This could be seen in the quality students she produced as their lives were transformed in her presence. She had space in her heart for others, especially the destitute and the lonely. She was a lover of all things beautiful. From taking students on unforgettable field trips all over New Providence Island, to island hopping among the family islands, to horseback riding in the Blue Mountains of Jamaica.

During our Class Chapels, this fine woman of God many times rendered her audience completely helpless as we stretched out in stitches over many of her well written plays. Nevertheless, she also knew how to make one sit up and pronounce that “foolishness is a hindrance to success,” She was an educator and education of the nation’s children was paramount.

Mrs. Grace Johnson faced life’s challenges undaunted, and her unwavering faith looked for a better tomorrow. Even now, my brain may never be able to wrap itself around why her time with us was not extended, but we know where she is and what she would expect us to do.

Today, we praise God for her beautiful presence which, even now, can be felt and can never be taken away from us. May we honor Him with our lives as she did and may her soul rest in peace. from Sheila C. Thompson, Retired Teacher, Kingsway Academy

A Tribute To My Second Mother I can sincerely say that I was blessed with a motherin- law that treated me the same as her own daughters. I feel so blessed to have known such a wonderful person like you. My heart is broken because you are no longer here and I miss you so much. Your kindness, your love for God, your devotion to your family and friends is etched in my memory. The only comfort I have right now is knowing you are in Heaven and one day I will see you again.

Your Daughter, Emma Bassett

Grace, My friend and big sister for some 30 plus years. She was an exemplary and phenomenal woman to all she came in contact with. She was a Goddie and second mother to my last child Kesten. She was always there in every aspect of her life.

We were saddened when we received the call from Mitch of her passing. Our last visit with her will always linger in our hearts. We were elated to see each other. After leaving, our daughter said, “Mommy you and Goddie were holding hands crying”. Not knowing that it would be our last time together on this earth.

We will remember the fond memories of her scrumptious dishes and innovative crafts. Grace we will meet again someday.

Goddie I will love you always.

Rest in peace, Love Tim and Kes

Matthew 12:33 says that “A good tree produces good fruit and a bad tree produces bad fruit. You can tell what a tree is like by the fruit it produces.”

Mrs. Johnson, you were like a tree; strong, productive and good for those around you. It doesn’t feel like I was your student fourteen years ago. It doesn’t feel like there was ever a commencement to our relationship and it doesn’t feel as though I’m ready to let you go. For so long you have been like family to me, pouring into my life more than I could ever thank you for.

As your student, you encouraged me to display my talents, stimulated a desire to share my gifts and fostered a space for me to grow both emotionally and spiritually. Your love for Jesus Christ precedes you and your representation of Him in your life has consistently encouraged me to grow closer to Him. Although I know you are now in good hands with the Lord, I will miss you. The lessons, the laugh and the love you have shared will drift in the hearts of those you have encountered. You have planted seeds that have produced trees of good fruit that will be passed on for generations. You have done well by us (your family, friends and students) so we say a difficult yet thankful farewell. from Sequoia

Grecia, Querida y por siempre, partiste hacia lo alto, dejando un dolor profundo en mi corazon. Pero el recuerdo de tu amistad tan genuina y leal por siempre vivira en mi mente y en mi corazon. Hasta siempre mujer valiente y de tremendo corazon! from Lolita

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS It is with grateful hearts that we say thank you to all of you who have shown your love and support throughout Grace’s illness and now through her passing. Thank you for being there and for making the journey easier to bear. May God richly bless you all and remember you in your time of need.

Honorary Pallbearers Marcellus Bassett Marcus Bassett Nayo Bassett Drexel Dean John Saunders Pablo Watkin

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