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Born: 6 June, 1935 Died: 21 August, 2022 Age: 87 years old SERVICE HELD AT: The Church of The Most Holy Trinity Trinity Way, Stapledon Gardens Nassau, The Bahamas Date: 8 September, 2022 Time: 10 am CELEBRANT: The Rev’d. Fr. DeAngelo Bowe - Rector ASSISTED BY: Rev’d. Fr. John Kabiga, B.A., B.Th., M. Ed - Associate Priest Other Clergy ORGANIST: Dr. Sparkman Ferguson DDS, BS, FACD
Titular Organist Christ Church Cathedral INTERMENT: Lakeview Memorial Gardens Gladstone Road New Providence, The Bahamas
WORTHINGTONRANSFORDSAUNDERS
The Form And Order For The Celebration of The Solemn Eucharist of The Resurrection In Thanksgiving for the life of
IOBITUARY
nez (maiden name Mills) and Ullin Saunders were blessed with the birth of their first son Ransford Worthington Saunders. He was born on June 6, 1935 in South Caicos, Turks Island and his extended family was a vital part of his life. Ransford (nick name Ray) often stayed at his grandmother’s house, Marie Mills where he played marbles and flew kites with his cousin Howard Mills. Ray attended the public all aged school up to grade 10 and his favorite subject was history. He eventually earned the nickname the “Big Historian” by his peers. His aunt Maggie gave him private tutoring lessons in various subjects, including math, which served him well later in life in his career in accounting. Ray’s father was an organist and taught him to play the organ. Ray was a natural. At the tender age of eight, he was playing at St. George’s Anglican Church in South Caicos. At the age of 15 after completing grade ten, Ray came to the Bahamas in search of work opportunities. He initially wanted to go to Cuba but made the right decision in coming to the Bahamas as shortly after, a revolution broke out in Cuba between Batista and the Castro regime. When he came to the Bahamas, Ray bought a piano and enrolled in music school and was taught by some of the great Bahamian musicians like the late eminent E. Clement Bethel. As his children, we had the pleasure of listening to him play both classical music and jazz standards and ballads. “Fur Elise” is a classic that Ray helped Nina with for her music BJC. “I Did It My Way” was one of his favorites. Ray made a career of his music as a pianist at night at the Junkanoo Club, Loews Paradise Island Hotel and at various venues in Lyford Cay until the
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As a matter of fact, Ray was getting ready to play for a funeral when he developed a stroke. In 1997, Ray received a Certificate of Honour and was recognized for Community Service by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in the area of music.
1980s. Following this, Ray played the organ for the Church of the Most Holy Trinity until his death.
After leaving South Caicos, Ray initially went to Inagua and stayed with his godmother, Kathleen Godet. Here, he worked for the Erickson brothers (owners of the Morton Salt Company) as a mechanic. Because he did not see much future there, Ray sought new opportunities. He later worked in Grand Bahama as a lumber jack before moving to Nassau. In Nassau, Ray lived in the ‘FivePound Lot’ where a lot of Turks Islanders lived and hung out in the South Street and Kemp Road areas where he met some of the men who founded the PLP like Milton Taylor and Sammy Isaacs. He listened and supported the cause of Black Majority rule. Ray eventually found work at the Montague Beach Hotel as a bell hop and waiter. Unfortunately, the hotel was open only during the winter months and during his first year of work, he made the mistake of saving very little money. He learned his lesson and developed the art and habit of saving. He often spoke to us of the importance of saving. Ray met the beautiful Rosemary Rolle from Exuma at St. Mary the Virgin Anglican Church. This first encounter occurred when Ray touched her hand as she walked pass him. The next encounter would be through a mutual friend. He was smitten and went after her. Ray was charming, handsome and hard to resist. A courtship soon ensued and they tied the knot in 1961. They were blessed with five childrenKreimild Inez, Brunhild Etoil (Pre-deceased), Marcelles Ransford (Pre-deceased), Farrah Fiona and Nina Racquel. Ray enrolled in accounting school and took the RSA exams to qualify as an accountant. He became the first black person to work at Bahamas International Trust Company (BITCO) as an accountant in the 1960s. He remained at BITCO for fifteen years before he started working for Philip Pinder and Pepsi Cola as a bookkeeper. During this time, Ray met and was asked to join the “Sunshine Boys,” a group of men out to prove that Bahamians of humble beginnings could own and manage big businesses in the Bahamas. Ray declined the offer and continued working at Pepsi Cola where he eventually became the Comptroller. While there, Philip Pinder (one of the founding members of the Sunshine Boys) offered Ray the chance to manage and eventually own Shell West Bay. He worked at Pepsi Cola for 10 years before becoming the proprietor of Shell West Bay. Here, Ray worked seven days a week until he suffered a stroke on August 4, 2022.
Ransford Worthington Saunders is survived by: Wife: Rosemary Saunders; Four Daughters: Dr. Kreimild Saunders, Farrah DeveauxIsaacs, Dr. Nina Graham and Denise Sands, step-daughter; One Son: Marcelles Saunders (Pre-deceased); One Daughter-in-Law: Judith Saunders; Six Sisters: Dorothy Phillips (Pre-deceased), Olive Seymour (Pre-deceased), Inez Jones of Belle Glade, Florida, Shirley Moore (Pre-deceased), Ivy Marshall (Pre-deceased), Wilma Outten (Pre-deceased);
Ray was a committed member of the Church of the Most Holy Trinity in Stapledon Gardens where he worshipped and played the organ until his demise.
Four Brothers: Ullin Saunders Jr (Pre-deceased), Charles Saunders (Pre-deceased), Oliver Saunders (Pre-deceased);
Five Grandchildren: Peter Deveaux-Isaacs Jr., Gabrielle Saunders, Israel Graham, and Celestia Saunders; Numerous Nieces and Nephews including Joyann Edgecombe of Chicago, Illinois, Charmaine Williams, Necole Saunders, Sheena Butler, Tamika Greene, Ullin Saunders III, Charles Saunders II of Miami, Florida, Troy Saunders, Charlton Saunders, Lisa Saunders, Gigi Davis, Dave Saunders of South Caicos, TCI, Shelly Saunders of Tampa, Florida, Ivy SaundersMcNeil of Durham, South Carolina, Oliver Saunders Jr. of Belle Glade, Florida, Derrick Saunders of Tampa, Florida, Markell Saunders of College Park, Maryland, Franklin Seymour of Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, Gertrude Saunders of Freeport, Leathe-Kaye Phillips of Providenciales, TCI, Quinton Phillips of South Caicos, TCI, Charles Seymour of Freeport, Leathe Williams of Freeport, Randol Seymour of Inagua, Dr. Selwyn Seymour of London, England, Pazia Bowe, Kirmild Seymour, Michelle Gilbert, Ardis Ford, Dominique Seymour of Inagua, Drexel Forbes of San Antonio, Texas, Livina Dunkley of Delray Beach, Florida, Sandy Edwards of Welington, Florida, Orlando Forbes of Belle Glade, Florida, Tiffany Saunders, Clayton Jones of Miami, Florida, Ransford Jones of West Palm
Beach, Florida, Monique Moore, Lyndette Curtis, Rhonda Moore of Freeport, Ullin Rigby of Richmond, Virginia , and Dr. Diahann Marshall of College Station, Texas; . One godson: Quinten Barabas Woodside; Host of other relatives and friends including Dr. Howard Mills and family, Dr. Marcia Bassett-Sands and Family, William Clare of TCI, Norman Saunders of TCI, Dan Malcolm and Family of TCI, Joan Saunders, Beatrice Saunders, Management and Staff of Sun Oil Ltd, Management and Staff of Shell West Bay and Shell Oakes Field, Members of the Church of the Most Holy Trinity including Rev’d Fr. DeAngelo Bowe, Fr. John Kabiga, Cassandra Cooper and Family, Merlease Bethel, Yvonne Benjamin, Peggy Knowles, Deborah Johnson, Fr. Mark Fox, Fr. Roderick Bain, Fr. James Palacious, Patricia Burke and Family, Stephanie Varence and Family, Sylvia Moxey and Family, the Poitier Family, Neil Wright and Family, Eugene Robinson and Family, Bridgette Ferguson & Family, Heather Hazarian and Family, Letitia Curry and family, Florinda Mackey & Family, Stephanie and Blythe Duncanson, Ernest & Jean Munroe and family, Wilamae Dames and Family, Sheena and Patrick Hanlan, The Major Family, the extended Rolle Family, Dionne Stubbs & Kim Kemp and Family, Dr. Sharon Thompson and Family, Allison Maynard Gibson & Family, the Thompson Family, Eleanor and Elaine Butler and Family, Monica Sands and Family, Jeanne Gomez and Family, The Woodside Family, Helaena Dean and Family, extended Saunders Family, Dr. Tracy Halkitis and Family, the Hanna Family, Ms. Lisa Tucker, Ms. Jasmine Storr, Mr. Wellington Wright, Tommy Turnquest and Family, Drs. Duane Sands and Dionne Dames and the staff of Doctor’s Hospital. A host of other relatives and friends too numerous to mention.
TRIBUTE | Mr. Clinton Rolle, Managing Director and General Manager of SunOil THE INTRODUCTORY RITE AT THE RECEPTION OF THE BODY | (All Stand)
Celebrant:
Celebrant: O God of grace and glory, we remember before you this day our brother Ransford Worthington. We thank you for giving him to us, his 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.
AS I KNEW HIM | Dr. Howard Mills
| Ransford Worthington10 THE FUNERAL RITE THE ORDER OF SERVICE PRELUDE | Organ Voluntary O Master Let Me Walk With Thee Prelude In E-Minor | Bach
V. The Lord be with you. R. And also with you. V. Let us pray.
Elevation | Dubois PRE-SERVICE
With faith in Jesus Christ, we reverently receive the body of our dear brother Ransford Worthington, for burial. Our brother 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 him to perfection in the company of the Saints.
All: Amen
All: Amen (The coffin (urn) is then covered with a pall. After the coffin is covered with a pall it is not to be opened again. The Procession to the Sanctuary begins)
Celebrant: (The use of holy water is appropriate at this reception) I bless the body of Ransford Worthington with the Holy Water that recalls his baptism into Christ of which St. Paul writes: “All of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death.” By baptism into His death we were buried together with Him, so that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might have a new life. For if we have been united with Him by likeness to His death, so shall we be united with Him by likeness to His resurrection.
THE ENTRANCE
Celebrant: 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 11:25-26)
THE INTROIT HYMN | The Day Thou Gavest, Lord Is Ended
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 angels, 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)
(An acolyte or some other person leads the procession carrying the lighted Paschal Candle. Thurible, Cross and torches are carried after the Paschal Candle. The Celebrant follows (with assisting ministers). During the procession to the Altar one or more of the following sentences may be read)
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).
The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, His compassion never fails: every morning they are renewed. (Lamentations 3: 22-23)
(The coffin (covered) is placed in the middle of the center isle before the altar. The foot of the coffin faces the altar. The position of the Paschal Candle is to the front left side of the coffin facing the altar)
1. The day thou gavest, Lord, is ended, the darkness falls at your behest; to thee our morning hymns ascended, thy praise shall sanctify now our rest.
2. We thank thee that thy church unsleeping, while earth rolls onward into light, through all the world her watch is keeping, and rests not now by day or night.
3. As o’er each continent and island the dawn leads on another day, the voice of prayer is never silent, nor dies the strain of praise away.
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4. The sun that bids us rest, is waking our brethren ‘neath the western sky, and hour by hour fresh lips are making thy wondrous doings heard on high.
5. So be it, Lord; thy throne shall never, like earth’s proud empires, pass away; thy kingdom stands, and grows for ever, til all thy creatures own thy sway.
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Celebrant:
Reader: A Reading from the Word of God written in Lamentations chapter 3, beginning at verse 22. 22.The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; 23.they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. 24.‘The Lord is my portion,’ says my soul, ‘therefore I will hope in him.’ 25.The Lord is good to those who wait for him, to the soul that seeks him. 26.It is good that one should wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord. 31For the Lord will not reject for ever. 32. Although he causes grief, he will have compassion according to the abundance of his steadfast love; 33.for he does not willingly afflict or grieve anyone.
THE LITURGY OF THE WORD
COLLECT FOR THE DEPARTED
Let us Almightypray:God, we remember before you today your servant, Ransford Worthington, and we pray that, having opened to him the gates of larger life, you will receive him more and more into your joyful service, that, with all who have served you in the past, he may share in the eternal victory of Jesus Christ our Lord; who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for, ever and ever.
16.They will hunger no more, and thirst no more; the sun will not strike them, nor any scorching heat; 17.for the Lamb at the centre of the throne will be their shepherd, and he will guide them to springs of the water of life, and God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.’
All: Amen.
All: Thanks be To God
Reader: The Word of the Lord.
Reader: The Word of the Lord All: Thanks be To God THE NEW TESTAMENT READING | Revelation 7:9-17 | Read by: Mrs. Sandy Edwards (Niece)
THE OLD TESTAMENT READING | Lamentations 3:22-26, 31-33 | Read by: Ms. Necole Saunders (Niece)
Reader: A Reading from the Word of God written in Revelation chapter 7, beginning at verse 9. 9.After this I looked, and there was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, robed in white, with palm branches in their hands. 10.They cried out in a loud voice, saying, ‘Salvation belongs to our God who is seated on the throne, and to the Lamb!’ 11.And all the angels stood around the throne and around the elders and the four living creatures, and they fell on their faces before the throne and worshipped God, 12.singing, ‘Amen! Blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and honour and power and might be to our God for ever and ever! Amen.’ 13.Then one of the elders addressed me, saying, ‘Who are these, robed in white, and where have they come from?’ 14. I said to him, ‘Sir, you are the one that knows.’ Then he said to me, ‘These are they who have come out of the great ordeal; they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. 15.For this reason they are before the throne of God, and worship him day and night within his temple, and the one who is seated on the throne will shelter them.
THE CREED (The Apostle’s Creed)
Priest: Let us with confidence and hope confess faith into which we were baptized as we say:
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2.Summer and winter, and springtime and harvest, sun, moon and stars in their courses above, join with all nature in manifold witness to thy great faithfulness, mercy and love. 3.Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth, thy own dear presence to cheer and to guide; strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow, blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside!
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. He will come again to judge the living and the dead. I believe in Holy Spirit, the Holy Catholic Church, the communion of Saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.
Reader: The Gospel of Christ All: Praise to Christ our Lord THE HOMILY | The Rev’d. Fr. DeAngelo Bowe
13. The hired hand runs away because a hired hand does not care for the sheep. 14. I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, 15. just as the Father knows me and I know the Father. And I lay down my life for the sheep. 16. I have other sheep that do not belong to this fold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice. So there will be one flock, one shepherd.
Reader: The Lord be with you.
All: And also with you
THE GRADUAL HYMN | Great Is Thy Faithfulness, O God My Father
THE HOLY GOSPEL | John 10:11-16 | Read by: The Clergy
11.‘I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. 12. The hired hand, who is not the shepherd and does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and runs away— and the wolf snatches them and scatters them.
1.Great is thy faithfulness, O God my Father, there is no shadow of turning with thee; thou changest not, Thy compassions, they fail not; as Thou hast been Thou forever wilt be: Great is thy faithfulness! Great is thy faithfulness! Morning by morning new mercies I see; all I have needed Thy hand hath provided, great is thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me.
Reader: A Reading from the Holy Gospel according to the book of John chapter 10, beginning at verse 11. All: Glory to Christ our Saviour.
Leader: We have gathered to celebrate the entry of Ransford Worthington into life eternal.
People: Give to our brother Ransford Worthington eternal life; Leader: Our brother Ransford Worthington was washed in Baptism and anointed with the Holy Spirit. Give him fellowship with all your saints.
All: Amen THE PENITENCE Priest: If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, God is faithful and just, and will forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. Let us therefore confess our sins.
Leader: He was nourished with Your Body and Blood; Grant him a place at the table in your heavenly kingdom.
People: Hear us, Lord.
THE PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL | Led by: Mrs. Lyndette Curtis (Niece)
People: To affirm with praise and thanksgiving the goodness of the Lord.
Leader: We feel the pain of separation, we are conscious of our loss, but we have hope in Jesus Christ.
People: Our lips will shout for joy, for God’s love is over all that God has made. Blessed be God’s glorious Name forever!
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 honour and glory of your Name.
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.
People: We give thanks to God from whom comes all life and death and who surrounds us in both. We have affirmed our faith and rejoice in Christ’s victory over death, which is God’s promise to us.
Leader: Comfort us in our sorrows at the death of our brother, Ransford Worthington. Let our faith be our consolation, and eternal life our hope.
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Leader: Lord, You raised the dead to life.
People: Hear us, Lord.
Leader: Let us rejoice in God’s presence with us, in death as in life among those who now see God face to face.
1.O what their joy and their glory must be, those endless sabbaths the blessèd ones see; crown for the valiant, to weary ones rest; God shall be all, and in all ever blest.
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All: All things come from you, O Lord, and of your own do we give you. Blessed be God forever. Amen THE MINISTRY OF THE HOLY EUCHARIST
2.What are the Monarch, his court, and his throne? What are the peace and the joy that they own?
THE PRESENTATION OF THE OFFERINGS:
OFFERTORY HYMN | O What Their Joy And Their Glory Must Be
5.There dawns no sabbath, no sabbath is o’er, those Sabbath-keepers have one evermore; one and unending is that triumph-song which to the angels and us shall belong.
3.Truly Jerusalem name we that shore, vision of peace that brings joy evermore. Wish and fulfillment can severed be ne’er, nor the thing prayed for come short of the 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.
4.There, where no troubles distraction can bring, we the sweet anthems of Sion shall sing, while for thy grace, Lord, their voices of praise thy blessèd people eternally raise.
THE CONSECRATORY PRAYER THE ACCLAMATION THE PATER NOSTER
O that the blest ones, who in it have share, All that they feel could as fully declare.
THE SURSUM CORDA THE EUCHARISTIC PRAYER | Form E - Pg. 142 BCP
7.Low before Him with our praises we fall, of whom, and in whom, and through whom are all: of whom, the Father; and in whom, the Son, through whom, the Spirit, with them ever One.
6.Now in the meanwhile, with hearts raised on high, we for that country must yearn and must sigh; seeking Jerusalem, dear native land, through our long exile on Babylon’s strand.
1.Author of life divine, who hast a table spread, furnished with mystic wine and everlasting bread, preserve the life thyself hast given, and feed and train us up for heaven. 2.Our needy souls sustain with fresh supplies of love, till all thy life we gain and all thy fullness prove, and, strengthened by thy perfect grace, behold without a veil thy face.
Amen THE AGNUS DEI
THE INVITATION
Celebrant: My sisters and brothers in Christ, draw near and receive His Body, which He gave for you, and His Blood, which He shed for you. Remember that He died for you and feed on Him in your hearts by faith with thanksgiving.
All: Grant us, gracious Lord, that we so eat the flesh of Your Dear Son, Jesus Christ and drink His Blood, that we may evermore dwell in Him and Him in us.
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THE BREAKING OF BREAD
All: Though we are many, we are one body, because we all share in one bread.
Solo | Mrs. Camille Nairn COMMUNION HYMNS: Hymn | Author Of Life Divine
Celebrant: We break this bread to share in the Body of Christ.
All: Lamb of God, You take away the sin of the world; grant him rest. Lamb of God, You take away the sin of the world; grant him rest. Lamb of God, You take away the sin of the world; grant him rest eternal.
2.Wakened by the solemn warning, let the earth-bound soul arise; Christ, her Sun, all ill dispelling, shines upon the morning skies.
1.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.
2.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.
1.Hark! A thrilling voice is sounding; ‘Christ is nigh,’ it seems to say; ‘Cast away the dreams of darkness, O ye children of the day!’
3.Lo, the Lamb, so long expected, comes with pardon down from heaven; Let us haste, with tears of sorrow, one and all to be forgiven;
4.And so we come: O draw us to thy feet, most patient Saviour, 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 never more to part with thee.
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3.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.
Hymn | And Now, O Father, Mindful of the Love
Hymn | Hark! A Thrilling Voice
4.that when next he comes with glory, and the world is wrapped in fear, with his mercy He may shield us, and with words of love draw near.
5.Honour, glory, might, and blessing to the Father and the Son, with the everlasting Spirit, while eternal ages run.
2.O may this bounteous God through all our life be near us, with ever joyful hearts and blessed peace to cheer us, to keep us in his grace, and guide us when perplexed, and free us from all ills of this world in the next.
All: Give rest, O Christ, to your servant with your saints, where sorrow and pain are no more, neither sighing, but life everlasting. Amen
3.All praise and thanks to God the Father now be given, the Son, and him who reigns with them in highest heaven, the one eternal God, whom earth and heaven adore, for thus it was, is now, and shall be evermore.
All: Amen
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THANKSGIVING HYMN | Now Thank We All Our God
POST COMMUNION PRAYER:
President: Give rest, O Christ to Your servant Ransford Worthington with Your saints.
All: Where sorrow and pain are no more, neither sighing, but life everlasting.
1.Now thank we all our God with heart and hands and voices, who wondrous things has done, in whom his world rejoices; who from our mothers’ arms has blessed us on our way with countless gifts of love, and still is ours today.
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 unto 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 life with all your saints, through Jesus Christ our Saviour. Amen.
President: You only are immortal, the Creator and Maker of mankind; and we are mortal, formed of the earth, and to the earth shall we return. For so did You ordain when You created me, saying, “You are dust, and to dust shall you return.” All of us go down to the dust; yet even at the grave we make our song: Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!
President: (facing the body says)
THE COMMENDATION
Let us commend our brother Ransford Worthington to the mercy of God our Maker and Redeemer. Deliver your servant, Ransford Worthington, O Sovereign Lord Christ, from all evil, and set him free from every bond, that he may rest with all your saints in the eternal habitations; where with the Father and the Holy Spirit you live and reign, one God for ever and ever.
President: Into Your hands, O merciful Saviour we commend your servant, Ransford Worthington. Acknowledge, we humbly beseech you, a sheep of your own fold, a lamb of your own flock, a sinner of your own redeeming. Receive his soul 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.
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All: Amen President: Rest eternal grant unto him, O Lord.
Ransford Worthington
President: May he and all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.
All: And let light perpetual shine upon him.
RECESSIONAL HYMN | Praise To The Lord, The Almighty
1.Praise to the Lord, the Almighty, the King of creation; O my soul, praise him, for he is thy health and salvation: all ye who hear, now to His temple draw near, joining in glad adoration. 2.Praise to the Lord, who o’er all things so wondrously reigneth, shieldeth thee gently from harm, or when fainting sustaineth: hast thou not seen how thy heart’s wishes have been granted in what he ordaineth?
4.Praise to the Lord! O let all that is in me adore him! All that hath live and breath, come now with praises before him! Let the amen sound from his people again: gladly for aye we adore him.
3.Praise to the Lord, who doth prosper thy work and defend thee; surely his goodness and mercy shall daily attend thee: ponder anew what the Almighty can do, if to the he befriend thee.
4.O sweet and blessèd country, the home of God’s elect! O sweet and blessèd country that eager hearts expect! Jesu, in mercy bring us to that dear land of rest; who art, with God the Father and Spirit, ever blest. COMMITTAL (The Consecration of the Grave)
GRAVESIDE HYMNS:
ABIDE WITH ME
JERUSALEM THE GOLDEN
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2.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.
3.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. 4.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. 5.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.
1.Jerusalem the golden, with milk and honey blest, beneath thy contemplation sink heart and voice opprest. I know not, O, I know not what joys await us there, what radiancy of glory, what bliss beyond compare. 2.They stand, those halls of Sion, all jubilant with song, and bright with many an angel, and all the martyr throng; the Prince is ever in them, the daylight is serene, the pastures of the blessed are decked in glorious sheen.
3.There is the throne of David; and there, from care released, the shout of them that triumph, the song of them that feast; and they, who with their Leader have conquered in the fight for ever and for ever are clad in robes of white.
THE
1.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.
WHEN EARTH’S LAST PICTURE IS PAINTED When Earth’s last picture is painted and the tubes are twisted and dried, When the oldest colours have faded, and the youngest critic has died, We shall rest, and faith, we shall need it - lie down for an aeon or two, Till the Master of All Good Workmen Shall put us to work anew. And those that were good shall be happy: they shall sit in a golden chair; They shall splash at a ten-league canvas with brushes of comet’s hair. They shall find real saints to draw from - Magdalene, Peter, and Paul; They shall work for an age at a sitting and never be tired at all! And only the Master shall praise us, and only the Master shall blame; And no one will work for the money, and no one will work for the fame, But each for the joy of the working, and each, in his separate star, Shall draw the Thing as he sees It for the God of Things as They are!
You were a devoted husband! It had to have been divine intervention that drew us together which led to our union of sixty-two years and five children. I looked forward to you coming through the door every night from the station safe and sound and to fix your usual cup of tea. We often watched TV and talked until dawn. I enjoyed listening to you practice the hymns every week and those times you asked me to join in with singing. From time to time, you would break out with songs from Frank Sinatra which brought back such pleasant memories. I appreciated and I will miss the times we spent at lunch after church and dinners celebrating special occasions even though, at times, you had to leave early to go to work. I was always happy to see that smile of approval when the Christmas tree went up every year- oh you loved Christmas and you loved having family around during that time of the year. This year you will be greatly missed. I appreciate the sacrifices you made for our family and the love you gave in your own unique way. Memories of you will forever be in my heart.
MYHUSBANDDARLING
MamieLove,
The first time I recall your being there for me, as an adult, was during the birth of my son, Orlando. I was in need of a blood transfusion, and you were there in no time to provide me with the blood that could have saved my life.
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As the eldest brother, I have always looked up to you, and you have always tried to protect me, not only as a child but also as an adult. There were ten of us; so, of course, sibling rivalry was inevitable, but you always tried to defend me from some of the other siblings.
MY DEAR RAY,BROTHER,BIG
Most recently, during the COVID pandemic, you were acting in your big brother role again, calling weekly to check on me, as you were so concerned about my wellbeing, wanting to protect me from this dreaded virus. Ray, you have now left me, and I am all by myself. Visiting Nassau will no longer be the same without you, and I will miss those late night conversations that we used to have while drinking tea at the end of your work day.
Big brother, the medical report may state that you died from complications of a stroke or something like that, but I know, my dear brother, that you died from a broken heart, just as my heart is broken now. The only positive thing I can say is that you are now together again with your beloved Cellus, and when the Lord is ready for me, I will meet you both on the other side.
Love, Nan, your little sister
My dad took pride in being the breadwinner and main provider for his family. He afforded his children the formal education he never had. He allowed us to make our own choices without ultimatums. With his support, financial and
Ransford Worthington | 25
He met my mother Rosemary, got married and established roots in Nassau. I was the eldest of their four children. I got the nickname Kay because it rhymes with Ray.
Dad was a history buff, especially WWII and kept up with local and international events. My dad and I had regular conversations on local and international politics. It was always a lively exchange because I was a leftist and he was a conservative but liberal on some matters. This year he shared something surprising; that when he left TCI he was planning to go to Cuba to fight along with Castro but was disappointed to find out that he became a communist, so he did not go there. This response led to a further conversation about equality as a socialist goal. My dad wasn’t
Dad took advantage of the economic opportunities that Nassau provided by training in music and accounting and landed careers in both fields. He worked tirelessly.
y Dad’s Journey In Life Was Extraordinary And Courageous. He went from a large subsistence farming family in the Turks and Caicos Islands to the emerging modern city of Nassau with stops on various family islands in the Bahamas from age 15 on his own.
Music was a vital part of our home. It was wonderful to pause and take in the stream of music that regularly flowed from his piano from classical to jazz standards and gospel. I loved my father when he played the piano. He was in his element. It had a calm, soothing impact on him. It was not just
Dad was a strict disciplinarian; we could play in the yard and close surrounding areas but had to be home by sundown. Some fathers seek to be a friend, but dad was a real patriarch, the authority figure in our family. He was the law.
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MY DADDY WAS HANDSOME AND HE KNEW IT.
Whenever I would pop by for a visit, I would always greet him with a “Hey, Good Looking!” Of course that would evoke a smile that would melt my heart. That would then be followed by a kiss; not on his cheek, not on his lips but smack dab on his forehead — just like he liked it. If you didn’t know, I was a daddy’s girl and daddy loved all his girls… but I was his favourite.
At an early age, daddy also encouraged us to become involved in the gasoline business. I, of course, wanted to pursue my love for music. However daddy had other plans for me and being the dictator he was, I would never see the lights of Hollywood and pursue my dreams of becoming a professional singer.
My father wasn’t perfect but he was perfect in my eyes. We fought like cats & dogs at times but my love never waivered. Seeing you in those last days, daddy, hurt me to my soul. I know you’re at peace now so take your well deserved rest. I will love you always. See you next lifetime! - Your Favourite Girl - Farrah
As per my father’s plans, my brother & I would follow in his footsteps in becoming involved in the Shell family business. The rest is history. My daddy was a workaholic. He worked 7 days a week, 365 days of the year & rarely took vacations. He loved his work and he was good at it. Anyone who knows him intimately knew his favourite line; “I don’t make mistakes”… but I found a few.
I can recall as a child sitting and listening to my daddy play and sing songs by the greatest artists of yesteryear; Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, Gladys Knight & more. Daddy instilled a love in us and an ear for music yet he never wanted us involved in the music industry.
One of the most memorable events in my life with you was at my graduation in New York City. Having completed a four year degree in three years, I was so excited to invite my dad to my graduation.
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Life will not be the same without you. No longer will I see you at the breakfast table having your usual cup of tea when I stop by after my morning rounds, I will no longer hear those hymns and melodious ballards as I approached the house’s entrance, when I enter the doors of Holy Trinity, I will no longer see you at the organ, no more loud echoes of CNN and MS NBC from the TV as you entered the doorway, the house has been silent since you left as a matter of fact (unheard of in the Saunders household), no more weekly laments “How much money did you make today, how did you save?” and certainly no more calls from you at nights to see if I arrived at my home safely.
Medicine was my dream since childhood, you bought me my first stethoscope at the age of five. You saw to it that the dream was manifested all the way to my specialty in Obstetrics and Gynecology. A few months ago you even stopped by to see how the practice was coming along, unfortunately I was doing a clinic at PMH. I am so sorry I missed the opportunity to show you around and to reassure that I was coming along well. Thank you daddy for your never ending support.
Lastly, Dad you were there during all of my health challenges and you thought you would lose me as you often expressed. I fought like you, after all we were cut from the same cloth.
You were the best dad a girl could ever have. I will always love you. YourNinababy,
h Daddy, You Did Not Prepare Me For This. Over the last nine months we worked closely together at the gas station, and I will relish the time I had you all to myself- this was a rare occurrence. During this time, you taught me even more about the business and I will take those valuable pearls with me into my own business.
A few weeks ago after developing a stroke, I knew you would fight as you always did but this time, you threw in the towel and exchanged your boxing gloves for a crown. You gave up your fight. Take your rest now daddy, you did well.
Dad, you were a true disciplinarian. I did not understand while growing up why I could not venture from our yard or why I could not go to sleep overs. I understand now that I am a parent. There was a method to your madness after all. The times were different and even worse now, you were simply protecting us. Thank you for your hand in my life as it shaped me into who I am today and I am indeed satisfied with who I am.
Sadly, my dad said he was not sure if he would make it. That famous phase had come back to haunt me once again “I have to work.” I was pleasantly surprised to see that you did indeed make my graduation after all. The look on your face as I walked up to receive all the awards in my field was priceless. Even though you wanted me to follow in your footsteps in the area of accounting as I too was excellent in mathematics, you encouraged me to forge my own path. Yes, I strayed from the family’s entrepreneurial legacy but you still supported me.
How Can I Say Thank You! You were so kind, considerate, understanding and humorous. You never failed to come to the aid and assistance of others. I was also the recipient of your generosity on numerous occasions! Your humor knew no end, and you seem to have a knack without hesitation to think of a funny story at the ‘drop of a hat’. I will miss you tremendously, and you will forever be in my heart. Until we meet again on the Golden Shore.
DeeLove,
IsraelLove, A Tribute to Dada
Worthington | M
Ransford any People Called Him Chief, some people called him friend but very few had the distinct pleasure of calling him dada - I am one of those few. My grandfather was the last model of a moribund breed of men; an astute businessman, a devout Anglican but most of all - a family man. The bugle of his laugh will ring in our hearts till our last breath and his legacy is etched in Shell West Bay, Holy Trinity & every one of his kin. I take solace in knowing he left nothing on table of life and that he knew that he is loved beyond the pale. pj Dada you were one of my best friends. We got even closer when I spent many summers with you and nana.
You always made sure I had my weekly allowance and snacks for school. You rescued me many times from mummy when I got a bad grade on a test or did not complete my homework (Thanks Dada).
You gave me my first job and taught me about saving my Imoney.enjoyed having tea with you at breakfast and at nights when you came from the gas station on those days I slept Iover.also enjoyed reporting to you on everyone’s dealings and getting paid for it. Lol I was so happy when you came home a few weeks ago. I enjoyed slipping into your room to hold you hand and to do the usual reporting. After you left, I could not help but sleep in your bed. I miss you dada. I hope to see you again in Heaven.
| Ransford Worthington32 We are from a strong family with a rich heritage and you and I shared many happy moments together. How do I remember the many times you cam by and got me to go for a ride on your bicycle with me sitting of the crossbar. It seemed as if we rode around the entire town.Our tour of the island always included at stop as St. George’s Anglican Church and enjoy playing the organ and singing some of the old familiar hymns. There have been times I’d visit with you at your gas station and we’d spend our time reminiscing over our varied experiences growing up in our hometown. I will certainly miss the fellowship, the fun and most of all your hearty laugh as we strolled down memory lane of growing up in South Caicos. Ray, you are Forever Cherished! Forever Remembered! From Dr. Howard Mills (cousin and best friend) A
FRIENDTOTRIBUTEMYBEST
It Is With Deepest Sorrow And Sadness That We Write This Tribute To Our Uncle Ray. You were the Patriarch of the Saunders clan, having witnessed the loss of your siblings. We often admired how much you looked like Par, and when you spoke in your native TCI tongue. Uncle Ray, you were a friend and a supporter to all of your nieces and nephews in so many different ways. Some of us had an even closer bond and special connection with you, which we will always cherish. As we mourn your loss, we draw strength from your character for you were indeed: • an entrepreneur and businessman, holding down several jobs; • talented in playing the organ in church; • humble, dedicated and caring with such a good heart; • a breath of fresh air as your warm smile, lit up the room; • a rock to those of us you provided gainful employment to; • a teacher in showing us how to conduct ourselves and how to be productive citizens; • a storyteller, often sharing family stories about Mar, Par, our Aunts and Uncles; and • kind and generous, always offering us gifts when we visited with you. Uncle Ray, your life was such a blessing to us and your memory a treasure, The music is ended, but your melody will forever linger on. We are so grateful to God for your life …..”a life so talentedly lived!” Grant Unto Him O Lord, Eternal Rest, Love, Your nieces and nephews
N– NEAT – Uncle Ray was always NEAT in his appearance and he portrayed a neat exactness in his work and business transactions that few can rival.
YourLove,nieces and nephews.
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S– SMART – Uncle Ray was SMART. His intelligence and business acumen were the foundation for his business success
A– ACHIEVER – Uncle Ray was an ACHIEVER. He used his inherited entrepreneurial skills to catapult himself from humble beginnings to an admirable level of success.
D– DAD- He was a great DAD. He loved, cared and provided for his children to the best of his ability, so that they would live and lead comfortable lives. His legacy will forever live on in our hearts. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
R– RELIGIOUS – Uncle Ray was baptized in the Anglican faith and continued to follow Christianity into adulthood. He was a God-fearing man and was devoted to his chosen place of worship, The Most Holy Trinity Anglican Church.
R– RESPONSIBLE - Uncle Ray was always a RESPONSIBLE person. As the eldest son and third eldest child of his parents, he learned at a young age the importance of honoring his obligations and duties.
F- FIGHTER – Uncle Ray was a FIGHTER. The forces of evil knocked him down a few times and it was thought that he might not survive. However, he held fast to his will, courage and determination to fight and live on.
O– ORGANIST – He was skilled enough at playing the ORGAN to be considered a Maestro. He learned to play at a very young age, from observing his father who was an organist at St. George Anglican Church, South Caicos. Uncle Ray followed in his Father’s footsteps and became one of the organists at The Most Holy Trinity Anglican Church.
To My Dear Family And Friends, I am deeply honoured to pay tribute to the last remaining patriarch in the Saunders family. As Isaac followed in the footsteps of Abraham, so Uncle Ray surely followed in the footsteps of our grandfather, Papa, whose legacy he took to several higher levels. Upon relocation to Nassau, (after a brief stop in Inagua and the decision to reject Cuba), he settled quickly. He was soon deep into work, and at one point, held three jobs, which meant he worked all day every day and well into the night on most days. On one of those jobs, he was alerted to the opportunity of acquiring his first service station, which he readily exploited. As a full time worker and entrepreneur, he then turned to the challenge of raising a beautiful family, the evidence of which is clear. This third part of the puzzle cemented the legacy bequeathed him by his father: to work hard, run a successful business and raise a happy and healthy family. As he has now finished his long and distinguished journey, the baton now passes to our generation, a duty I will be happy to bear as the eldest nephew. May he rest in eternal peace and rise in glory. Charles “Chowie” Seymour.
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Ransford Worthington | 37 On May 10th, the day of the sinking of the HMBS Flamingo, some 41 years ago; I normally take time out to commemorate my father and his shipmates whom had survived, and those faithful four that had lost their lives, but I wanted to do things a little differently this May 10th although never forgetting the solemnest of this date. I want to commemorate the gentleman that owns the Shell Gas Station on Saunders’ Beach. I am not aware of his name, but I remember as a child walking into the gas station with my mum, and he would be working the registers and assisting customers. Although stern faced, he had an inviting feel. I haven’t seen much of him recently, but you would always know when he was there; by his car being parked in his port in front of the station. Unconsciously as a child, and even now as an adult when driving on Saunders Beach, I would peer over at the station to see if he had changed his then beautiful vehicle to an even more beautiful vehicle, as he changes it every 5-6 years, maybe. While in University I would often think about this gentleman.. Coming back and starting my own company, I thought about him, deciding on the job offers I would accept and decline, I thought about this gentleman. I say all of this to say, not even knowing this gent, or his name. He has unconsciously impacted me throughout my very short life and career. He is the epitome of black excellence, he is the kind of character that we should all strive to be like. Dedication, perseverance and hard work; I am sure everyday had not been easy, but he sticks in there day in and day out. Some 27 years later and I still see his car parked outside of his establishment, keeping the dream alive. So on this day May 10th, 2021. I commemorate you sir for inspiring young people without you even knowing. And I have to say the new ride looks wonderful, cheers to you sir!
Osano Neely Posted to Facebook May 10, 2021
Uncle Ray, we loved your soft spoken, genuine words that came from the heart. Your smile, and warm embrace that welcomed us anytime we were in your presence; yes, we will miss you. You always reminded us of our mother, your sister-in-law, who you said was the one that was never afraid to correct you, but you never doubted her love towards you. We think of you Uncle Ray and will always remember your tears that flowed from a heart of compassion and love. Psalms 56:8 – a psalms of remembrance, reminds us how David asked God to collect all his tears in His bottle.
The Family of Andrew and Lynn Curry
RIP Uncle Ray. TRIBUTE FROM THE CURRY FAMILY
Ray Saunders as we called him was my silent Dad. I lack words to express my grief on his passing. Whenever we spoke he always imparted wisdom that would be so encouraging and straight forward you just got it! He was a man who was an astute businessman and stayed in the moment. He was strong and no nonsense and he displayed this on countless occasions when Eugene and I would stop by his station. He called me Farrah’s friend We will miss him. Rest In Peace Love always Debbie and Eugene Thompson and family TRIBUTE FROM THE ROLLE FAMILY
The bible says in Proverbs 13:22 “ a good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children”. As we reflect on Uncle Ray we are comforted by the fact that his life exemplified this. He has always been a good provider for Aunt Mamie and the children. So much so, as I recall, he was always working. It was not until his latter years would he have time to “rest a little”. As he grew older, I saw a visible change in his hard exterior to one of vulnerability particularly after the loss of Marcellus. It was common for him to call Farrah asking her what she is bringing him for dinner, almost in vulnerable way. On one occasion when I dropped off his dinner with a bottle of wine to the station for Farrah, he beamed with joy and said, “ My Farrah sent this for me?” To which I replied “Absolutely”. His joy was priceless! Uncle Ray, you have steered the course and lived a good life now take your rest in the arms of your loving Savior. We will miss you dearly.
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TRIBUTE FROM THE THOMPSON FAMILY
OpenAmbitiousSharpNobleStrongFamilyHeartedRefinedDevoted
Other than a hard worker and an excel lent businessman, these are just a few words we can describe you as. Family isn’t just relation by blood but by time and bond created some being 20+ years. To the “best accountant”; your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure, you are loved beyond words and will be missed beyond measures. Your absence is a blow which will leave a bad bruise. Farewell chief from your staff we love you.
TO OUR CHIEF Razor
| Ransford Worthington42 The Bahamas Petroleum Retailers Association (B.P.R.A) has been in existence for close to 50 years and a great deal of the success of the organization can be traced back to Dealers like Mr. Ray DuringSaunders.the early years, Mr. Saunders was a guiding light for all the Dealers in the Weassociation.ashard working business people know quite well of the value and benefit our departed colleague, Ray Saunders, played in providing support, assistance and inspiration for all of us. The B.P.R.A. wishes to offer deeply felt sympathy and condolences to his wife, Mamie his daughters Dee, Kay, Farrah, Nina and all of his extended family and friends and may you all find some measure of comfort in the wonderful memories that Ray has left you with. May his soul be resting peacefully. A FROMTRIBUTEB.P.R.A
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Our service of worship at Holy Trinity Anglican Church is not complete without the sound of music. Music has always been integral in the life of this church since its inception. Just as music was vital to our church, so was Ransford “Ray” Saunders. A towering angel, whose voice was the music he made and whose heart was the God he served. From earliest times in the life of Holy Trinity, there was Leroy Thompson, Ray Saunders, and later Edmund Moxey. Many others passed our way, but these men became the Rock of the church’s Music Ministry. The truth be told, it was such a given that either of these men would present at a service that we have been blind-sided by their departure. We have never given any serious thought to a “Holy Trinity without Leroy, Ray or Edmund.”
A TRIBUTE FROM THE MUSIC MINISTRY OF THE CHURCH OF THE MOST HOLY TRINITY
A man of few words, who walked on his toes as if gliding on a cloud. A man who always wore a smile and brought a sense of peace to his surroundings, Ray invested his very self to the life of this parish. Never seeking reward but rather giving of his own earthly treasures. There at our every beck and call, he was a man that did not know how to say “No.” So much so that the very day of his stroke, he was ardently preparing to get to church to play the organ for a funeral service that was already in progress.
Ray has been playing the organ/piano in this church for as far back as we can remember. His dedicated service has been impeccable! In spite of the fact that he had a business to operate, Ray gave the church priority.
Our Music Ministry has lost another pillar in its building and we are deeply saddened. It is with hurting hearts and deepest regrets that we say farewell to one of our own… Saint Ray! The Psalmist says, “Be Ye faithful unto death and I will give thee a crown of life.” Ray has received his crown! Until then, our hearts will go on singing.
The Journey I will go alone if I have to. I’ll lay aside every sin and weight that so easily beset me. So if you’re behind me when I begin this journey, stay there, for you will only hinder me. In my basket, in case you are wondering, are seeds to be sown. You see, this is a road less traveled and only a few they’ll be that will find it. My footprints will someday vanish from this trail, but the seeds I sow will grow and bear fruit that will remain. The fragrance from this fruit will draw hungry souls to sojourn with me, as we all seek God in Spirit and Truth. Dust from this road tempts my thirst, but it is not mere water that I thirst for. The cup of destiny contains the substance that will quench my thirst, so only from destiny’s cup will I drink. Eternity has allowed me only a few moments in time, so I must be about my Father’s business and find my way back to where I belong. My steps are ordered towards a destination that has been waiting for me since the laying of the world’s foundation. If I deviate from this journey, I’ll only delay my arrival. Although my feet are shod with preparation, they still grow weary, so I must stand on the promises of God to gain strength for miles of this road left untrodden. At the end of this journey waits a festive table filled with blessings and prayers that I prayed and had forgotten. Have your fill of these blessings! Divide them among my progeny to the fourth and fifth generation. For along the way, I’ve eaten of bread you know not of. I am full. Tired from my journey, Jesus bids me to rest and extends His hands with an invitation. I’ll gladly accept and sit on the porch of the Kingdom to recap my travels, and realize that this journey was just as important as the destination.
Ransford Worthington Saunders 1935-2022
PALLBEARERS Mr. Drexel Forbes Mr. Ullin Saunders III Mr. Peter Deveaux-Isaacs Jr. Mr. Edwin Thompson Mr. Clyde Rashad Mr. Leroy Major ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Bethel Brother’s Morticians Lakeview Memorial Gardens Rev’d Fr. DeAngelo Bowe The Church of the Most Holy Trinity Lesley Pinder Wedding & Events Dr. Sparkman Ferguson DDS, BS, FACD. Provided by SIDDA Communications Group Tel: 394-BOOK (2665) Mobile: (242) 818-3478 Email:Nassau,info@siddagroup.comN.P.Bahamas MESSAGE OF GRATITUDE “Earth has no sorrow that Heaven cannot Heal” Comforted by these words, we the family of the late Ransford Worthington Saunders extend our sincerest appreciation to all of you who have called, visited, prayed, and showered us with any expression of love and kindness. We have felt your touch during this time of bereavement. We appreciate each and every one of you who have helped to make this experience easier to bear. With much gratitude The Saunders Family Funeral Service Entrusted To: P.O. Box N-1026 Nassau Street Nassau, Bahamas 242.322.4433 (T) 242.328.2314 (F) 242.422.1033 (M) HONOURARY PALLBEARERS Dr. Howard Mills Mr. Dan Malcolm Mr. William Clare Mr. Blythe Duncanson
