Original Memory Book for the Late Sidney Carroll, Jr.
July 19,1964 - October 11, 2024
AGED: 60 years old
SERVICE HELD AT
Bahamas Faith Ministries
Carmichael Road
Nassau, New Providence
The Bahamas
Saturday, November 2, 2024 at 10am
OFFICIATING
Dr. Dave Burrows, President & Senior Pastor, BFMIF
ASSISTED BY
Pastor Kersch Darville, Fellowship Pastor, BFMIF
Pastor Carl Bullard, Assistant Fellowship Pastor, BFMIF
Pastor Dr. Patrick Rolle -Senior Associate Pastor
Pastor David Knowles -Assistant Pastor
INTERMENT
Lakeview Memorial Gardens
John F Kennedy Drive
Nassau, New Providence
The Bahamas
In the beautiful city of Nassau, Bahamas, on Sunday, July 19, 1964, Sidney Charles Carroll Jr. was born, the youngest son and seventh child of Sidney Carroll Sr. and Jacklyn Carroll. From the very beginning, Sidney, affectionately known as “Siddy,” brought joy and warmth to his family, and over the years, he touched the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know him.
EDUCATION
Sidney’s early years were spent at Xavier’s Lower School, where his first day of school was memorable—he cried all day, unsure of the new world around him. But, as with everything in life, he quickly adjusted and embraced each new chapter. His spiritual journey began during his time at Nassau Christian Academy, where, at the tender age of 11, he came home one day and excitedly told his mother, “Mammy, I accepted the Lord today.” This pivotal moment was a source of joy for Sidney, marking the beginning of his lifelong faith. He continued his education at Bishop Leonard Junior High School and later St. Augustine’s College, enjoying the typical adventures and light mischief of his teenage years.
WORK
Sidney’s deep bond with his family shaped much of his life, including his work. At 19, he joined his eldest brother Brian and his wife Sheila as a Manager at South Beach Food Store, a family-run business. In 1986, Sidney married Katherine Carey, and together they had two beautiful daughters, Candisha and Caneasha, whom he adored. Though their marriage ended after 13 years, Sidney remained devoted to his daughters, his “little princesses.”
In 1987, Sidney and his brother Christopher (“Chrissy”) embarked on a new venture together, bringing Chrissy’s vision of “Circle C Food Store” to life. It was a family endeavor that Sidney took great pride in, and the brothers worked side by side until 1991, building something that would last for years to come.
Sidney’s work ethic and commitment to his family’s success didn’t end there. In 1998, he took over the management of Courtesy Drugstore, another family-owned business. Sidney’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to start his own ice-making business, and he later ventured to Long Island, living
with his Uncle Louie and Aunt Enith, both of whom predeceased him, while selling his goods and making connections with the local community.
Upon returning to Nassau , Sidney desired a wife, he often told the story of how he prayed to God for a wife and that when he sees her, he would know her. In 2009, Sidney met his beautiful wife Valerie Kerr , the love of his life and married in 2011. He later took up a new role as a Manager at Bamboo Shack. Because of his love for nature and the outdoors, Sidney and his wife together they built Bahamas Palms, a plant nursery that combined his love for the outdoors with his passion for helping others.
A PASSION FOR NATURE AND COMMUNITY
Nature was Sidney’s sanctuary. The yard was where he found peace, a place to unwind and feel free. His business, Bahamas Palms, became more than just a nursery—it was a gathering place where people came to learn from Sidney and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. His deep knowledge and love for plants were infectious, and he took great pride in sharing that passion with customers and friends alike, Sidney loved giving, oftentimes he would give his customers discounts and on top of discounts, he would give an extra plant or two and a handful of freshly picked fruits or vegetables from the garden. This act of kindness brought him joy
and satisfaction knowing he was able to give and share with his community. During these years, Sidney also became involved in various civic and community farming groups, finding fulfillment in giving back and connecting with others. He also entered the political arena where he was constantly passionate about helping the people of Long Island, His Father’s birth place,and pushing the agriculture of the Bahamas to new heights.
On October 11, 2024, while attending a couples retreat on the beautiful island of Long Island, started off as a wonderful day, a day filled with excitement and enthusiasm. Sidney walked to the beach with the other couples and after returning, decided to rent a tour bus to the various tourist attractions, along with three other couples. After a fun filled day spent on the island he loved , Sidney prepared for an evening of fun. He enjoyed his meal, danced with his wife and later gave his final testimony about how he met his wife and his love for God. Shortly thereafter, the Lord called him home, but with his last breath he uttered “Thank You Jesus” before he transitioned.
Sidney have touched the lives of so many, and they can attest that there is at least one fruit bearing tree that they would have purchased, from his nursery and planted in their yard. He was a man of integrity, hardworking, full of life, and of quiet strength. Sidney loved the Lord, he was devoted to his loving wife, children and family.
His grand children will miss their Papa, especially those days he picked them up from school. His memories will forever linger in their hearts . His laughter and wisdom will be deeply missed but, never forgotten.
Rest in peace, dear Sidney. You are forever in our hearts, and your legacy of love and kindness will live on in the lives of those you touched.
With love,
From Your loving Wife and the The Family of Sidney Charles Carroll Jr.
He is survived by his: Wife: Valerie Carroll; Mother: Jacklyn Carroll; Children: Candisha Rolle (Omar), Caneasha Carroll (Dwanye Davis Jr.); Stepchildren: Dr. Mandela Kerr (Dr. Yaisel), Mandisa Smith (K’Mond), Moesha Kerr; Grandchildren: ReNyah Bastian, Jabari and Zaire Rolle; Step grandchildren: Izaleyla and Izani Kerr, Malakai Russell, Kaiyah Smith, Moniecia Toote; Brothers: Brian (Sheila), Jeffrey and Christopher Carroll; Sisters: Patrice Burrows (Andrew), Carolyn Beneby (Philip), Sandra Nairn (Anthony), Terry Ann Roker, Deborah Thompson (Eugene), Michelle Wallace; Nieces and Nephews: Andrea, Garfield (Ladashia), Andrew Jr., Gerard, Sidney Burrows, Bryinda (Mark) Russell, Rian, Tameka, Athena, Brian II Carroll, Macnair (Gwen), Bronson, Philippa Beneby, Philisa Williams, Phileah Lookie (Lourel), Nakeia Watson (Harazette), Stacy Demeritte (Ernecko), Antonique Nairn, Tramayne Baillou (Uhenncey), Cindy Tinker (Kendrick), Petrine Russell (Howard), Stephen, Devin, Raven, Sydney Carroll, Christina Carroll, Geena Williams (Tony), Geeah, Gabriella, Eugene Jr. Thompson, Latoya Bonamy (Kurt), Terrane, Brooke, Tre Roker, Lechelle, Lee II, Liam Wallace; a host of Grandnieces and Grandnephews; Uncle: Wendle Williams (Judy); Numerous other
relatives and friends including: The Williams Family, The Major Family, The Rose Family (In Laws), Miralee Rose, Foster Rose (Peggy), Sherrin Cooper (Addison), Michelle Rose, Julie Hanna, Brenda Rose, Coralee Taylor (Rudolph), Sonia Saunders (Oscar), Rhonda Adams (Charles), Denalee Penn Mackey & Family, The Farquarson Family, The Penn Family, The Sturrup Family, The Moncur Family, Rex and Patricia Major, Dr. Marsha WilliamsBethel, Cicely Mitchell (Grover), Olivia Belle, Leon Carroll and Family, Dr.Cassius Stuart and Family, Omar Smith and Family, Jermaine Higgs and Family, Katherine Carroll, The Carey Family, Shirlyn Hunt & Family, Dwanye Davis Sr. and Family, Shirley Allen and Family, Billy Allen and Family, The Albury Family, Rudy Williams, Renaldo Bastian and Family, Pastor Dave and Angela Burrows, Pastor Kersch and Suzette Darville, Rev.Patrick
Miller and Family, Lorenzo Bullard and Family, Maclean Pinder and Family, Edsil Harding and Family, Rudy Sands & Family, Ethric Bowe & Family, Alfred DeCosta &Family, Sidney Sinclair & Family, Anthony Adderley & Family, Staff of Bahamas Palms Nursery, Bahamas Faith Ministries Family, KMEM Marriage group, Sparks Children Church. KBEN Business Group. The Free National Movement, The Progressive Liberal Party, Bahamas Democratic Movement (BDM), Sybil Strachan Primary School, The Family Farm Ltd, Bahamas Agri Entrepreneur, Happy Gardeners Club, Convoy of Hope Nassau Agri, AOB Backyard Gardening Initiative, The Church Community Farming Group, Bamsi, Department of Agriculture, Chiccharney Farms, Ministry of Environment & Natural Resources- The Forestry Unit, Caron Shepperd and family, Cyna Turnquest, Ellis and Ingrid Major,
Solo | Shanell Carey “Somebody’s Praying Me Through”
As I Knew Him | Dr. Cassius Stuart (friend)
Solo | Clement Penn Jr. “It Is Well”
Message | Dr. Dave Burrows
Invitation | Dr. Dave Burrows
Prayer for the Family | Dr. Patrick Rolle
Closing Prayer | Pastor David Knowles
Recessional Song | It’s Alright Now (words on screen)
Final Words – Pastor Kersch Darville and Dr. Patrick Rolle
Committal Congregational Songs –
Glad Reunion Day
There will be a happy meeting in heaven I know When we see the many loved ones we’ve known here below. Gather on the blessed hilltops with hearts all aglow. That will be a glad reunion day.
(Chorus)
Glad day, a wonderful day, Glad day, a glorious day; There with all the holy angels and loved ones to stay, That will be a glad reunion day.
There within the holy city we’ll sing and rejoice, Praising Christ the blessed Saviour with heart and with voice. Tell him how we came to love Him and make Him our choice. That will be a glad reunion day.
When we live a million years in that wonderful place Basking in the love of Jesus, beholding His face. It will seem but just a moment of praising His grace. That will be glad reunion day.
City of Gold
There’s a city of Light, where there cometh no night; ‘Tis a city of beauty untold; All my treasures are there and its beauty I’ll share, When I get to that city of gold.
(Chorus)
When I leave all trouble and care, I will say good morning up there; I will have great gladness untold, When I get to that city of gold
Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus
’Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus, And to take Him at His Word; Just to rest upon His promise, And to know, “Thus says the Lord!”
(Chorus)
Jesus, Jesus, how I trust Him! How I’ve proved Him o’er and o’er Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus! O for grace to trust Him more!
I’m so glad I learned to trust Thee, Precious Jesus, Savior, Friend; And I know that Thou art with me, Wilt be with me to the end.
There’s no sorrow up there in that city so fair And no sickness can enter I’m told; Shadows all will have flown, I will meet friend I’ve known When we get to that city of gold.
Won’t you go there with me to the home of the free, Would you see heaven’s beauty unfold? If you will come along, we will sing heaven’s song When we get to that City of gold.
It is Finished
There’s a line that is drawn through the ages
On that line stands an old rugged cross
On that cross, a battle is raging
To gain a man’s soul or it’s loss
(Chorus)
It is finished, the battle is over; it is finished, there’ll be no more war It is finished, the end of the conflict; it is finished and Jesus is Lord
On one side, march the forces of evil
All the demons, all the devils of hell
On the other, the angels of glory And they meet on Golgotha’s hill
The earth shakes with the force of the conflict
And the sun refuses to shine
For there hangs God’s son, in the balance And then through the darkness he cries
Yet in my heart, the battle was still raging
Not all prisoners of war had come home These were battlefields of my own making I didn’t know that the war had been won
Oh, but then I heard the king of the ages Had fought all the battles for me And that victory was mine for the claiming And now praise his name, I am free.
TO MY LOVING HUSBAND SIDNEY
God has blessed us with 15 wonderful years together I’m so Blessed to have been on this journey with you. You have been to me a loving, honest, compassionate, generous, smart, dedicated, hardworking husband, most of all a praying man, and a man who loved his God.
You were my Priest, Provider , Protector and my best friend. You had the ability to always make those around you feel secured and loved, this was your greatest strength.
You loved your children and many called you ‘Uncle’. Your innermost passion was your love for Agriculture, you love your plants and your garden, I believe that you are in Gods beautiful garden presently planting and pruning.
Sidney you were a gem and you will be missed. I will miss hearing you repeat every morning, ‘This is the day that the Lord has made, we will rejoice and be glad in it.’
However, God chose you for a greater purpose and your time was fulfilled on this earth.
I believe that you are looking down with a radiant smile on your face because you are immersed in His Glory. Of all the love stories in the world ours will always be my favourite.
Sleep on my darling husband and take your rest, I loved you, but Jesus our Lord , loved you the best.
From your loving wife, Valerie.
Friday, October 11, 2024 at 11:55pm, one phone called turned me life upside down. One phone call left me numb with a sting indescribable. Daddy, I never imagined writing a tribute to you in an obituary. I am trying my best to be that strong person you always said I am. Our memories together will forever hold a special place in my Heart. Nyah, Jabari and Zaire miss you tremendously. They miss your special touch on Papa duties even if that meant endless treats me and Candi didn’t want them to have. Your video updates after pick ups brings back memories but also heartbreaks because you have been a pivotal part of our daily lives. Despite the pain , I feel relieved knowing you were a true man of God and that you are definitely in a much better place. You taught me how to remain faithful no matter the circumstances and to always speak life into myself.
I am soo thankful for all the Father’s Day brunches , birthday cake cuttings , nursery walks and car rides we got to spend together creating stronger bonds over the years. I will forever cherish those moments. Thank you for always being a man of wisdom and pouring into me when I didn’t realize I needed it. I can write pages on what I miss dearly about you daddy but I will say Thank you for never letting the opportunity to be missed in saying I Love you. Because this words are holding me together knowing that you loved me like no other.
I love you daddy forever and always.
Your darling daughter, Caneasha
MY DEAR FATHER, THANK YOU!
My dear father Thank you!
Thank you for loving me unconditionally and always making it known. Your words of encouragement and advice will not be forgotten. From the age of 5, you inspired the entrepreneurial spirit in me as I shadowed you through the aisles of Courtesy Drugs watching you manage the store and working alongside by you. You constantly reminded me of being kind and effective in the workplace.
Thank you for showing me the keys to the Kingdom and instilling Godly principals in me. Thank you for sharing with me the lessons you learned in marriage and telling me what to put focus on.
Thank you for loving Omar like he was your son. “Candi now you’re doing too much. How Omar feel about that?” Who will tell me to slow down and take it easy. “Oh this Candi always rushing”. Thank you for taking care of my 2 boys and documenting your time with them. I will cherish those memories for eternity. It breaks my heart when they ask for their Papa and I have to tell them you are no longer with us, but in a better place. I will never let them forget you. You had dreams for my life and the boys. I will make sure that greatness is fulfilled.
Daddy you were the sweetest man I knew, even though you gave off a tough persona. You were always big on family and never wanted any relationship to stray. I just want to tell you how grateful I am to have been raised by you.
With Love, your darling daughter Candi
My Papa was a fighter, A Brother, A Father and a Husband. Even though he was all of those things, he was the best Papa. Everyday he would pick me up from school with the biggest smile. We would go for food together sir and eat and spend time. Papa was my supporter no matter what was happening he would show up for me and I appreciated that very much. I will miss my Papa very much.
I love you Papa!
Your Grandaughter, Nyah
A TRIBUTE TO SIDNEY
Today, we honor and remember a wonderful man—Sidney, who was not only a devoted husband to our mother but also a true father figure to us all. Sidney’s love for our mother was a testament to his deep faith and the man of God he was. His love was steadfast, sincere, and filled with grace, and it was a constant reminder of the power of commitment and devotion.
Sidney was a man of great kindness and an unwavering work ethic. He approached life with positivity, and no matter what challenges came our way, he was always there to uplift us, to remind us that brighter days were ahead. His belief in each of us never wavered, and he celebrated our every achievement, no matter how big or small. In times of hardship, Sidney’s prayers and words of faith carried us through, and for that, we will forever be grateful.
Though Sidney is no longer with us in body, his spirit, his love, and his faith will continue to guide and inspire us. We will miss him dearly, but we take comfort in knowing he is now at peace, embraced by the love of God.
Rest in peace, Sidney. You will forever be in our hearts.
Why God takes those we love. Does He need them more than we do, In Heaven up above?
No one on earth can pretend
T o know what’s in God’s plan. All we can do is take it on faith And trust we’ll see our loved ones again.
Sidney Carroll Jr. you were a dear brother and uncle to us. We could always count on you to share your dazzling smile, robust laughter, knowledge of plants and mostly your godly advice. We will all miss the cheerful calls that either started with Bren, my sister Sandra or my beautiful/ lovely niece depending on who you were talking to. The fond memories of you will always linger in our hearts. Rest in peace until we meet again. Your loving sister Sandra, Brother-in-Law Anthony and nieces Nikeia, Stacey and Antonique.
Being the fast and nosey child that I was, I knew that I was going to have another brother or sister. There had not been a baby for three years which was unusual in the Carroll family. After a difficult birth my mother bought home a handsome baby boy named Sidney Jr.
He was a child that was content to play by himself. My brother was a dreamer and an explorer, he could tell you every inch of the property on Carmichael Road. Siddy as we called him loved life, his children, his grandchildren and gave his two grandsons a love for the land. When he would keep them, he would teach them about every plant.
I will miss his “Welcome to the Bahamas” greeting as I make my monthly trips from Cat Island. Sleep on baby brother, I love you, but Jesus loves you best.
– Patrice
TO MY BABY BROTHER “SIDDY”
I can remember when Mammy brought you home from the hospital and she had you on her lap. Sitting in the chair as we gathered around her to see our baby brother Sidney.
Over the years we called you “Siddy “ it was your pet name and you were always our baby in our eyes. Growing up you were always outside watering the grass, even in the rain. Nurturing nature was your passion and where you would be! You enjoyed wondering around the lake catching fish, planting trees and watching nature take its course.
You left us so sudden, it still feels unreal. You told me you were going to Long Island in a few minutes, that was your text to me , but I was looking forward to seeing you when you returned. There was some things we were planning to do. It was just so sudden !!
I didn’t want to believe Debbie, when she told me that night at 10:39 that Siddy had passed.
I was a doubting Thomas and when Eugene asked, me 3x’s Do you want to see him?? I reluctantly said yes.
I was speechless and could not contain myself after that Then Debbie said , give the phone to Philip please, because he’s been through this before .
Siddy, you will surely be missed. We know you’re in a better place but, forever in our hearts for Love is stronger than death.
Gone too soon.
Love always, Philip and Carolyn.
IN LOVING MEMORY OF MR.
SIDNEY
CARROLL JR.
The Thompson family pays heartfelt tribute to Mr. Sidney Carroll Jr., a beloved brother and uncle who touched the lives of all who knew him. His unwavering love for God, his devotion to his family, and his passion for nurturing plants were at the core of his gentle spirit.
Sidney’s life was a reflection of grace and humility. He was a man of faith, deeply rooted in his love for the Lord. His commitment to his walk with God was a source of inspiration for his family and friends, and he carried that faith with him in every aspect of his life.
A lover of nature, Sidney found peace and joy in his garden, where he cultivated beauty and life with the same care and dedication that he showed his loved ones. His presence was like a well-tended garden—calm, nurturing, and always filled with love.
To his family, Sidney was a source of unwavering strength. As a cherished brother and uncle, he embodied kindness, loyalty, and compassion. His laughter, wisdom, and love will be deeply missed but forever cherished in our hearts.
As we celebrate the life of Sidney Carroll Jr., we are comforted by the knowledge that he is now in the arms of his Savior, where he will continue to bloom in eternal peace.
Rest in peace, dear Sidney. You will forever remain in our hearts, and your memory will live on in the love and faith you shared with us all.
With love, Deborah and Eugene Thompson and Family
Siddy, you left us in a heartbeat, so excited to get to Long Island. I belove it was divine providence that you took your last breath down there as neither Daddy, nor his 2 brothers died there.
We will All miss your presence and your passion for things nature related. Rest in peace til we meet again.
Love, Shelli (Your baby Sis) and kids
Mr. Sidney Carroll Jr., a man of Godly principles, a visionary and a dreamer who allowed God to bring those dreams to fruition. A man who loved his wife and family dearly and was always generous with his time, services and wise counsel to others. He had a consistently positive and uplifting spirit and strived to bring out the best in those around him. Nature fascinated him from a very young boy and he would often carry his younger siblings throughout the yard to see the butterflies and tadpoles. His life has left a positive and indelible mark on everyone he came in contact with . The praises of God would ring out throughout the yard whilst he was tending to his passion, his plants. He had a big and generous heart. Every day he would say his favourite Psalms, this is the day that the Lord has made, we will rejoice and be glad in it. He was a great brother and uncle and we will always cherish our memories with him and strive to better ourselves and deepen our relationship with God because of his exemplary behaviour. We will always love you and we thank God for your life.
From Terry Roker and family.
Today, I write with a heavy heart to honor the memory of a beloved brother and uncle, a remarkable man who filled our lives with joy, love, and kindness. You were a true embodiment of faith, devoted to God and the beauty of His creations. Your love for family and nature was evident in every interaction. Siddy you couldn’t wait to take ANYONE on a tour of your gardens.
Brother, you were smart and had such a unique ability to light up any room with your infectious laughter and unwavering optimism. I admired your unshakeable faith which inspired us all, reminding us that life is a precious gift meant to be cherished and you cherished yours until the very end.
With a gentle spirit and a kind heart you effortlessly made each of us feel valued and respected. Thank you for leaving such a lasting impact on those who had the privilege of meeting you. The suddenness of your passing has left a void that can never be filled. We are grateful for the time we had with you, yet we mourn the moments we will never share. Your absence is deeply felt, but we take comfort in knowing that you are resting in the arms of your Lord and Savior, surrounded by the love and peace you so fervently believed in.
Siddy, as we reflect on your life, I pray that my children and I can carry forward your strong legacy of kindness and faith. We will remember your laughter, the many lessons/debates, and the love you shared so freely. Though you may be gone from our sight, you will forever remain in our hearts. My dear brother, you are greatly missed, but your spirit will continue to guide us and inspire us every day.
Thank you for the love you gave to my children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and the love you gave to me; these memories we will all treasure forever. Until we meet again Siddy, rest in peace.
Love your big brother Jeffrey and my clan; Tramayne (Uhenncy), Petrine (Howard), Cindy (Kendrick), Stephen, Raven, Devin, Sydnee, Mason, T errel (Arnesha), Camron, Devin Jr., Stephen Jr. Destinee, Jazmine, Donis, Laelle and Tyler B!
idney - To know you, was to love you. You were like a brother to the Rose family, and you always made us feel so special. We appreciated the unique bond and friendship which we shared. And because of this, we celebrate You ....Remembering the affection and various acts of kindness you displayed towards our family. Know that your love and your legacy will continue to shine
Sidney, we most admired the way you loved the Lord, and our sister, Valerie. We know that you are now looking down from Heaven and smiling at us....Rest in peace our brother ......For we are confident that you shall rise in glory. �� Amen
A man who truly loved God. Loved his wife. Love his children and family. He was a real gentleman. A man who seeked to live and please his God. A Bahamian extra ordinaire. Uncle, we love you in life and in death. You will truly be
miss you immensely. Though I didn’t get to spend as much time with you lately, the loving memories from my childhood continue to resonate deeply within me. Your warmth and guidance shaped so many of my
Words cannot fully convey the impact your passing has had on my heart. The loss feels profound, yet I cherish the legacy of love and encouragement you left behind. Thank you for being such a wonderful part of my life.
My sweet Uncle Siddy possesses an innate ability to cultivate not only plants but also the potential within his family. His green thumb allows him to bring life . This ability extends beyond horticulture; he has a remarkable talent for encouraging his nieces and nephews to flourish in their pursuits.
Every birthday, he reaches out to me with heartfelt wishes and sage advice, instilling in me the confidence to chase my dreams. With each call, he plants seeds of inspiration, ensuring that his loved ones always strive for success.
Christina Kye And Mello and with love from your brother Chrissy
A TRIBUTE TO SIR SIDNEY
As I looked over the trees from my balcony and steered into the orange glow of a beautiful sunrise, I realize that the power of the sun doesn’t allow me to see beyond it but yet it provides a warmth that transcends further than the limits of what I can see with my natural eyes; I am reminded that so does the SON of man, our father, who reveals himself to us just as powerfully as the sun. It comforts us in the form of the Holy Spirit. As my mind races turning back the pages of the preceding hours, I find peace in knowing that He, as a reflection of the Holy Spirit, knows far beyond what we can see or imagine, as told in the scripture.
I sat there, only comforted at that moment by a slight cool breeze, rewinding the last 24 hours and realizing that God’s plan was revealed to me right before my very eyes. Jeremiah and other scriptures tell us that He knows the plans He has for us. He lists some of those plans: plans to live and not die, prosper and be in good health, plans to complete a work that He has started in us. He reminds us in Proverbs 3:5 to “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding.”
Just a mere 24 hours earlier, I had an opportunity to spend time with a man that I didn’t know would not be sitting next to me in that sobering moment on the balcony, one Sidney Carroll Jr. As I look at the sun from that vantage point, I watched one of the most powerful teachings that spiritual giant, Dr. Myles Munroe, had ever shared before hisdeath unfold right before my very eye. That profound teaching is that” We are to die empty”.
My friend and brother, Sidney, indeed died empty. Through the wisdom and at the submission to the Holy Spirit of our Kingdom Marriage Enrichment
Ministry (KMEM) leaders that weekend, we arose early for a special time with God, a devotional time that ended with a stroll through the beautiful turquoise water that rolled onto a peaceful shore and washed away burdens, troubles, problems and for some of us, even pain. We somehow found ourselves submersed in the power of God’s word.
Sir Sidney and our crew, which we dubbed the name “The Long Island Rebels”, would spend that day on an adventure. The eight of uscrammed into a tiny little van and ventured to Hamilton’s Cave where we drank from a natural fountain of water in the cave. We chuckled and joked about this newly found fountain of youth which we said had the power to extend life, not knowing that through its symbolism, it would and did spiritually extend life to eternity. We realized that when we got near the end of that cave, we could not go any further, and if we did not keep our flashlights on, we would not be able to see ourway out. There is going to come a time when we won’t be able to go back. Sir Sidney died empty.
That day I believe Sidney may have even emptied his bank account on the stop to the ATM. He told me he just thought to take out a few dollars just in case he needed it. Nothing much, he said, I guess justenough to buy that extra Conch Salad he bought from Max conch salad stand, as he sat there and reflected on the good ole days.
The eight rebels who were more like angels would drive a little further to a location at a church yard to visit the shrimp hole, I think those were holy shrimp. This was a spot I had never been to, and there aren’t many places I haven’t been to on Long Island, but I can say that my friend Sir Sidney Carroll took me there. Before walking to the pond as if we were headed to a baptismal, we had to stop by a tree that was unfamiliar to Sidney. I can remember him saying, “we need to find out what kind of tree this is because it was left there all alone with reason and purpose.” It was Sidney who had purpose and that day, like every day I believe, his purpose perhaps unbeknown to him at the time wasto die empty.
Of course, before we tracked through the path to the pond where we were told the shrimp used to stay near the top but lately tarried near bottom, we had to take a peek in the ruins of the old church where Sidney found the framework outlining what used to be a confessionalbooth. He said to me, “call my wife, so I can hear her
confession”. He died empty. I can still see the image in my mind of Sidney just sterring into the clear water of the pond as if he was viewing gold and diamonds beneath the shimmer, and guess what, that day the deep pinkish colored shrimps were at the top of the pond, not the bottom.
Reflecting on that moment, I realized that in due season we will also see clearly what the last 24 hours of our journeys are if we continue to live with the goal of dying empty.
It was a powerful 24 hours although in our natural minds we struggleto understand it. As the Long Island Rebels sat around a back table on the veranda of the Harbor Breeze resort, with the roar of the ocean in the background, planning our next adventure and determined that we were all going to travel on a trip together again soon. We all understand now that one trip we can never really plan the timing of, but must prepare for, was experienced by one of us. All of us are looking forward to reaching that destination and experiencing the peace, tranquility, and fellowship we will have in that special place.
He died empty, giving a powerful testimony at our evening session and thanking God for his amazing blessing, Val. He reminded us that God wants us to put Him first in all things and when we seek Him, everything would be added to us. Love God, he said, and to Love God is to fulfill His purpose for our lives on earth and to do that is to die empty. There is no doubt as I watched the sun slip away behind the clouds from my balcony viewing point that Sir Sidney Carroll Jr, my friend and brother did just that, he died empty and for that we should find some feelings of peace in the midst of this sobering time.
I leave you with this scripture from my personal devotional time thatmorning, which was titled, Pain Is Part of the Process to Spiritual Maturity
“After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who calls you to share his eternal glory in union with Christ, will himself perfect you and give you firmness, strength, and a sure foundation.” 1 Peter 5:10 (GNT)
Kevan N Dean
A TRIBUTE TO A STELLA FARMERSIDNEY CARROLL
As the stars are unnumbered across the sky and each one has its own description, so was Sidney Carroll. His faith in God guiding him each moment was his ultimate focus.He radiated a commitment and dedication to his profession like no other; his assignment to his daily task of producing the best fruits, vegetables and palms were on display as you would walk through the gardens and the plantation of Bahama Palms.
Sidney’s hands-on connection with guests and his students from time to time was impressive, insightful and knowledgeable, leaving you with the desire to want to learn more about whatever you were growing.
The exotic plants were his pride and joy, the expression on his face as he shared how he achieved the growth of a plant and how it matured -like his Olive trees, was a shining testament of his love for agriculture and nature. One thing that laid heavily on him was the advancement of agriculture in the Bahamas to see our country develop more food.
We in the farming community sincerely mourn the loss of our brother Sidney Carroll and share in the celebration of his life, a life of passion, enthusiasm and full of colour.
Our Farming Community has lost a good soul who was a proud Bahamian Farmer and a man of his word. We pray that God puts his hands on Sidney’s shoulder with a smile and says’ Well done my son, enter into the City of Paradise. Our sympathy goes out to the Carroll family . I Will Plant a Green Star Fruit Tree in Memory of Sidney Carroll.
Nick Abaco Neem
MESSAGE OF GRATITUDE
We, the family extend our sincere thanks and appreciation to the many friends and family for each and every act of kindness shown to us during this most difficult time. Your prayers, visits, calls, messages and well wishes will always be remembered. We Sincerely Thank Everyone of You
