THE SOLEMN EUCHARIST IN THANKSGIVING FOR THE LIFE OF
Valerie Ann Clarke
DATE OF BIRTH: 25th October 1942
DATE OF PASSING: 29th September 2024
AGE: 81
SERVICE HELD AT:
ANGLICAN CHURCH OF THE EPIPHANY
Prince Charles Drive Nassau, N.P., The Bahamas
SATURDAY, 26TH OCTOBER 2024
AT 11:00 A.M.
OFFICIATING:
The Rev’d. Canon Atma Budhu
ASSISTED BY:
Other members of The Clergy
ORGANIST:
Berenice Bowe
INTERMENT
LAKEVIEW MEMORIAL GARDENS Nassau, N.P., The Bahamas
Valerie Ann Clarke, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and dear friend, passed on September 29the 2024, marking the end of an extraordinary journey of a life filled with love and dedication to her family.
Born on October 25th, 1942, in the city of Nassau, The Bahamas, Valerie “Aunt Val” as she was affectionately known, was the daughter of Lily Albertha Taylor of Clarence Town, Long Island and Henry Allan Taylor of New Providence. Her brothers and sisters include Patrick Taylor (deceased), Janet Taylor Rich, Arthur Taylor (deceased), Joan Armaly, and Ivy Taylor (deceased), and Beryl Adams.
Valerie spent her formative years in New Providence, where she attended elementary and high school. Committed to continuous improvement, she pursued and completed certifications in accounting and financial services after graduating from high school. Valerie worked in various accounting roles of increasing responsibility, including serving as an account manager in the hotel industry. She also was an entrepreneur, once owning a clothing boutique in Palmdale, Nassau. She eventually moved into banking taking a position as a client accountant with the Chase Manhattan Trust Company, where she retired after many years of dedicated service.
While building a professional career, Valerie cultivated other interests in culinary arts, tailoring and gardening. She was well known for her green thumb and beautiful garden, which boasts many fruit trees and local plants that thrived under her care. Her extensive library of books demonstrated her unwavering love of reading, which she passed onto her children. She also enjoyed entertaining and often hosted Christmas and Easter holiday dinners at her home. But what many of us will miss most is Valerie’s calm demeanor and sage advice, which was always delivered with kindness and love.
Valerie’s love for family was a central theme in her life which can be seen by the numerous photos posted throughout her home. She married her beloved late husband, Victor Clarke Sr. on November 17th, 1959, and they had five children together. Long after her husband’s death in 2004, Valerie made a point of keeping the family connected with weekly calls to share the latest local news, birthdays, and anniversary notices. She was a pilar of strength for her children who will surely miss
her weekly “check-ins” to catch up life. Valerie also cultivated a strong faith, which was exemplified by her commitment to the Anglican church. She served as an usher and was unwavering in her attendance and support of church activities.
Valerie’s earthly journey ended on September 29th, 2024. While we are saddened by our loss, we find joy in the cherished memories of her life and her enduring legacy of kindness that she left behind, which continues to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Valerie is survived by: Five Children: Victor Jr., Virgo, Valentino, Volare and Vanessa; Sisters: Janet Taylor Rich, Joan Armaly, Beryl Adams and Wendy Wong; Brother-in-Law: Peter Wong. Son-in-Law: Jacobie Ricard. Daughters-in-Law: Avess, Judith, Gretchen and Yasmine. Grandchildren: Keenya Payne, Robert Jones, Valentino Jr. and Ryan Clarke, Mandecqua Gardiner, Denard Dean, Volare Jr., V’ahja and V’Lori Clarke, Nevaeah Thompson, Zayden Boyd, Brian Clarke, Jacobie Lucas and Victoria Ricard. Nephews and Nieces: Allen and Arthur Taylor, Parish Armaly, Gary Mackey, Andre Adams, Kenneth Oliver, Ramon, Julian and Jason Taylor, Sherry Beard, Nicola Oliver, Lisa Mackey, Sharon Taylor, Carla Taylor, Leah Wong, Pamela Armaly, Angie Taylor, Beverly Taylor, Leshane Taylor, Ramona and Shanelle Taylor. Grand Nieces and Nephews: Perez, Parron and Paige Armaly, Joel and Hanna Beard, Shanae, Shanti, Shannon and Gryer Mackey, Samantha and Simone
Oliver, Reginald Sands, Cameron Smith, Jezel and Jenesta Bell, Henrienna Taylor, Nakita Taylor and Keno Forbes. Taylor Relatives, Cousins and Family Friends: Iris Colebrook and Family, Loren Taylor and Family, Henry Taylor and Family, Carl Gaitor and Family, Clara Bowe and Family, Albert Bowe and Family, Sara Taylor, Elnecka Taylor-Price and Family, The Taylors of Miami, Floriday, Denise Rolle and Family, Shawna Strachan and Family, Valerie Gaitor and Family, The JohnsonHanna-McKay Family, Trevor Munnings, Edward (Eddie) and Diane Dean, Sandra Campbell, Tamara Campbell, Lisa Humes, Nadia Campbell, Tamara Campbell, Yinka Burrows, Derek and Pinky Taylor, Beverly Nairn and Family, Julianna Thompson, Avanelle-Foulkes-Whyms, Michelle Dean, Paula Styles and Family, Charles McKinney, The Moncur Family, Ruth Donaldson and Family, The Poitier Family, Vanrea Rolle, Omari, Shaamiyah, Kingston, Brookly and Royal Payne, Fredericka and Michael Clarke, Joan Cartright, Jane Issacs, Berneice Bowe, The Holmes Family and the Anglican Church of the Epiphany.
May the memory of Valerie’s life continue to shine brightly and provide solace to all who knew her. If we inadvertently omitted your name, please accept our apologies, and forgive us. We deeply appreciate your support during this difficult time.
RECEPTION OF THE BODY
CELEBRANT: With faith in Jesus Christ, we receive the body of our sister, Valerie for burial. Our sister Valerie was washed in Holy Baptism and anointed with the Holy Spirit. Let us therefore, with confidence, pray to God our Heavenly Father, the Giver of life, that He will raise her to perfection in the company of the Saints.
ALL: Amen.
CELEBRANT: The Lord be with you.
ALL: And also with you.
CELEBRANT: Let us pray.
O God of grace and glory, we remember before you this day our sister, Valerie. We thank you for giving her to us, her family and friends, to know and love as a companion on our earthly pilgrimage. In your boundless compassion, console us who mourn. Give us faith to see in death the gate of eternal life, so that in quiet confidence we may continue our course on earth, until, by your call, we are reunited with those who have gone before; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
ALL: Amen.
THE PROCESSION TO THE SANTUARY BEGINS
Jesus said, “I am the resurrection, and I am the life; he who believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and whoever lives and believes in me shall never die.” {John 11: 25-26}
The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, His compassion never fails: every morning they are renewed. {Lamentations 3: 22-23}
Jesus said, “Let not your hearts be troubled; believe in God, believe also in me.” {John 14:1}
I am sure that neither death, nor life, nor 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}
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 this 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}
INTROIT HYMN | And Can it Be
And can it be that I should gain An interest in the Savior’s blood? Died He for me, who caused His pain— For me, who Him to death pursued? Amazing love! How can it be, That Thou, my God, shouldst die for me?
’Tis mystery all: thee Immortal dies: Who can explore His strange design? In vain the firstborn seraph tries To sound the depths of love divine. ’Tis mercy all! Let earth adore, Let angel minds inquire no more.
He left His Father’s throne above So free, so infinite His grace— Emptied Himself of all but love, And bled for Adam’s helpless race: ’Tis mercy all, immense and free, For O my God, it found out me!
Long my imprisoned spirit lay Fast bound in sin and nature’s night; Thine eye diffused a quickening ray I woke, the dungeon flamed with light; My chains feel off, my heart was free, I rose, went forth, and followed Thee.
No condemnation now I dread; Jesus, and all in Him, is mine; Alive in Him, my living Head, And clothed in righteousness divine, Bold I approach thee eternal throne, And claim the crown, through Christ my own.
CELEBRANT: The Lord be with you. ALL: And also, with you.
CELEBRANT: Let us pray.
Almighty God, we remember before you today your servant, Valerie, and we pray that, having opened to her the gates of a larger life, you will receive her more and more into your joyful service, that, with all who have served you in the past, she may share in the eternal victory of Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.
ALL: Amen.
TRIBUTES | Victor Clarke
Johnson-Hannah-McKay
Juliana Thompson
LITURGY OF THE WORD
OLD TESTIMENT READING | Isaiah 25: 6 – 9 | Judith Clarke
6 On this mountain the Lord Almighty will prepare a feast of rich food for all peoples, a banquet of aged wine— the best of meats and the finest of wines. 7 On this mountain he will destroy the shroud that enfolds all peoples, the sheet that covers all nations; 8 he will swallow up death forever. The Sovereign Lord will wipe away the tears from all faces; he will remove his people’s disgrace from all the earth, The Lord has spoken. 9 In that day they will say, “Surely this is our God; we trusted in him, and he saved us. This is the Lord, we trusted in him; let us rejoice and be glad in his salvation.”
READER: The word of the Lord
ALL: Thanks be to God
PSALM 23 | ” The Lord’s My Shepherd” | Epiphany Choral
NEW TESTIMENT READING | 1 Thessalonians 4: 13 –18 | Vanessa Ricard
13Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope. 14 For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him. 15 According to the Lord’s word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep. 16 For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so, we will be with the Lord forever. 18 Therefore encourage one another with these words.
READER: This is the Word of the Lord.
ALL: Thanks be to God.
GRADUAL
HYMN | Through
All the Changing Scenes of Life
Through all the changing scenes of life, In trouble and in joy, The praises of my God shall still My heart and tongue employ.
Oh, magnify the Lord with me, With me exalt His name; When in distress to Him I called, He to my rescue came.
The hosts of God encamp around The dwellings of the just; Deliverance He affords to all Who on His succor trust.
Oh, make but trial of His love, Experience will decide How blest they are, and only they, Who in His truth confide.
Fear Him, ye saints, and you will then Have nothing else to fear; Make you His service your delight, Your wants shall be His care.
HOLY GOSPEL | John 14: 1 – 6 | Virgo Clarke
1 “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God[a]; believe also in me. 2 My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. 4 You know the way to the place where I am going.” 5 Thomas said to him, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way? 6 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
READER: The Gospel of Christ ALL: Praise to Christ our Lord.
HYMN | .” Lord Lifted Me!”
I was sinking deep in sin, Far from the peaceful shore, Very deeply stained within, Sinking to rise no more; But the Master of the sea Heard my despairing cry, From the waters lifted me–Now safe am I.
(Chorus)
Love lifted me, Love lifted me, When nothing else could help, Love lifted me; Love lifted me, Love lifted me, When nothing else could help, Love lifted me.
SERMON | The Rev’d Canon A. Budhu
THE CREED
All my heart to Him I give, Ever to Him I’ll cling, In His blessed presence live, Ever His praises sing. Love so mighty and so true Merits my soul’s best songs; Faithful, loving service, too, To Him belongs.
Souls in danger, look above, Jesus completely saves; He will lift you by His love Out of the angry waves. He’s the Master of the sea, Billows His will obey; He your Savior wants to be–Be saved today.
PRIEST: Let us with confidence and hope confess faith into which we are baptized as we say:
ALL: I believe in God the Father Almighty, creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day He rose again. He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.
INTERCESSIONS
INTERCESSIONS | Pamela Armaly
LEADER: For our sister, Valerie, let us pray to the Lord Christ who said, “I am the Resurrection, and I am the Life”.
LEADER: Lord, You consoled Martha and Mary in their distress: Draw near to us who mourn for Valerie and dry the tears of those who weep.
ALL: Hear us, Lord.
LEADER: You wept at the grave of Lazarus, your friend, comfort us in our sorrow at the death of our sister Valerie.
ALL: Hear us, Lord.
LEADER: You raised the dead to life: Raise our sister, Valerie to eternal life.
ALL: Hear us Lord.
LEADER: You promised paradise to the thief who repented: Bring our sister, Valerie to the joys of heaven.
ALL: Hear us, Lord.
LEADER: Our sister, Valerie was washed in Holy Baptism and anointed with the Holy Spirit: Give her fellowship with all Your saints.
ALL: Hear us, Lord.
LEADER: Our sister Valerie was nourished with Your Body and Blood: Grant her a place at the table in Your heavenly kingdom. ALL: Hear us, Lord.
LEADER: Comfort us in our sorrows at the death of our sister, Valerie. Let our faith be our consolation, and eternal life our hope.
PENITENCE
CELEBRANT: 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 of from all unrighteousness.
CELEBRANT: Let us therefore confess our sins.
ALL: Almighty God, our Heavenly Father, we have sinned against you and one another, in thought, word and deed, and in what we have left undone. We are sorry and repent of all our sins. For your Son, our Lord Jesus Chris’s sake, forgive us all that is past, and grant that we may serve you in the newness of life to the glory of your name. Amen
THE ABSOLUTION
CELEBRANT: Almighty God, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you form all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness, and keep you in life eternal, through Jesus Christ our Lord.
OFFERTORY HYMN | ” When We All Get to Heaven”.
Sing the wondrous love of Jesus, Sing His mercy and His grace. In the mansions bright and blessèd He’ll prepare for us a place.
(Chorus)
When we all get to Heaven, What a day of rejoicing that will be! When we all see Jesus, We’ll sing and shout the victory!
While we walk the pilgrim pathway, Clouds will overspread the sky; But when travelling days are over, Not a shadow, not a sigh.
PRESENTATION OF THE ELEMENTS
Let us then be true and faithful, Trusting, serving every day; Just one glimpse of Him in glory Will the toils of life repay.
Onward to the prize before us! Soon His beauty we’ll behold; Soon the pearly gates will open; We shall tread the streets of gold.
CELEBRANT: Through your goodness, Lord, we have this bread and wine to offer, the fruit of the earth and the work of human hands. They will become our spiritual food.
ALL: All things come from you, O Lord, and your own do we give you. Blessed be God forever. Amen
MINISTRY OF THE HOLY EUCHARIST
THE EUCHARISTIC PRAYER
CELEBRANT: The Lord be with you.
ALL: And also with you.
CELEBRANT: Lift up your hearts
ALL: We lift them up to the Lord.
CELEBRANT: Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
ALL: It is right to give him thanks and praise.
CELEBRANT: It is right, and good and joyful thing always and everywhere to give you thanks, Father almighty, everlasting God:
Through Jesus Christ our Lord; who rose victorious from the dead, and comforts us with the blessed hope of life eternal. For to your faithful people, O Lord, life is changed, not ended; and when our mortal body lies in death, there is prepared for us a dwelling place eternal in the heavens.
Therefore, we praise you, joining our voices with angels and archangels and with all the company of heaven, who forever sing this hymn to proclaim the glory of your name.
ALL: Holy, holy, holy, Lord, God of power and might; heaven and earth are full of your glory, Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest.
CELEBRANT: Sovereign Lord and Father, to You be the glory and the praise, forever. In your boundless wisdom You brough creation into being in Your great love. You fashioned us in Your image; on your tender compassion, You sent Your son Jesus Christ, our Saviour, to share our human nature; in the new birth as first of Your new creation. On the night He was betrayed, He took the bread and when He had given thanks to You, He broke it and gave it to his disciples and said: “Take this bread and eat it: This is my body which is given to you. Do this in remembrance of Me.
And after supper, He took the cup of wine; and when He had given thanks, He gave it to them and said “Drink this all of you: This is My blood of the New Covenant, which is shed for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Whenever You drink it, do this for the remembrance of Me.”
CELEBRANT: Therefore, Father, according to His command:
ALL: We remember His death. We proclaim His resurrection. We await His coming in glory.
CELEBRANT: And we offer You, Father, our sacrifice of thanks and praise. Send Your Holy Spirit on these gives of bread and wine that they may become the Body and Blood of Your Son, Jesus, our Lord and Redeemer. As we partake of this holy food of the new and unending life, may Your Holy spirit establish in us a royal priesthood with the Blessed Virgin Mary and all Your sons and daughters who share in your eternal inheritance; Through Jesus Christ our Lord, with Him, in Him and Through Him, by the power of the Holy Spirit, we worship Your Father, Almighty, with all who stand before You in earth and in heaven, in songs of everlasting praise.
ALL: Blessings and honour and glory and power be Yours forever and ever. Amen.
CELEBRANT: As our Saviour has taught us, so we pray:
ALL: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your Name; your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Save us from the time of trial and deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours now and forever. Amen.
BREAKING OF THE BREAD
CELEBRANT: We break this bread to share in the body of Christ.
ALL: Though we are many, we are one body, because we all share in one bread.
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 eternal rest.
THE COMMUNION
CELEBRANT: My brothers and sisters 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 feel Him in your hears by faith and thanksgiving.
ALL: Grant us, gracious Lord, that we may so eat flesh of our dear Son, Jesus Christ and drink his blood, that we may evermore dwell in him and he in us.
Amen.
COMMUNION
HYMN
| ” I Am the Bread of Life”
I am the bread of life. He who comes to me shall not hunger; he who believes in me shall not thirst. No one can come to me unless the Father draw him.
And I will raise him up, and I will raise him up, and I will raise him up on the last day.
The bread that I will give is my flesh for the life of the world, and he who eats of this bread, he shall live for ever, he shall live for ever.
And I will raise him up, and I will raise him up, and I will raise him up on the last day.
Unless you eat of the flesh of the Son of Man and drink of his blood, and drink of his blood, you shall not have life within you.
And I will raise him up, and I will raise him up, and I will raise him up on the last day.
I am the resurrection, I am the life. He who believes in me even if he die, he shall live for ever.
And I will raise him up, and I will raise him up, and I will raise him up on the last day.
Yes, Lord, I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, who has come into the world.
And I will raise him up, and I will raise him up, and I will raise him up on the last day.
COMMUNION
HYMN | ” My Faith Has Found A Resting Place”
My faith has found a resting place, from guilt my soul is freed; I trust the ever-living One, his wounds for me shall plead.
(Chorus)
I need no other argument, I need no other plea, it is enough that Jesus died, and that he died for me.
Enough for me that Jesus saves, this ends my fear and doubt; a sinful soul, I come to him, he’ll never cast me out.
COMMUNION
My heart is leaning on the Word, the written Word of God, salvation by my Savior’s name, salvation thro’ his blood.
My great Physician heals the sick, the lost he came to save; for me his precious blood he shed, for me his life he gave.
HYMN | ” My God How Wonderful Thou Art
My God, how wonderful Thou art, Thy majesty how bright, How beautiful Thy mercy seat, in depths of burning light!
How dread are Thine eternal years, O everlasting LORD; by prostrate spirits, day and night, incessantly adored.
How wonderful, how beautiful, the sight of Thee must be, Thine endless wisdom, boundless pow’r, and awful purity.
O how I fear Thee, Living God, with deepest, tend’rest fears, and worship Thee with trembling hope, and penitential tears.
Yet I may love Thee too, O LORD, Almighty as Thou art; for Thou hast stooped to ask of me the love of my poor heart.
No earthly father loves like Thee, no mother e’er so mild, bears and forbears, as Thou hast done with me, Thy sinful child.
Father of Jesus, love’s reward, what rapture will it be, prostrate before Thy throne to lie, and ever gaze on Thee!
POST COMMUNION PRAYER
ALL: Almighty God, we thank you that in your great love you have fed us with the spiritual food and drink of the Body and blood of your Son Jesus Christ and have given us a foretaste of your heavenly banquet. Grant that this Sacrament may be to us a comfort in affliction and a pledge of our inheritance in that kingdom where there is no death, neither sorrow nor crying, but the fullness of life with all your saints, through Jesus Christ our Saviour. Amen.
HYMN | ” Amazing Grace”
Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound, That saved a wretch like me. I once was lost but now am found, Was blind, but now I see.
T’was Grace that taught my heart to fear. And Grace, my fears relieved. How precious did that Grace appear The hour I first believed.
Through many dangers, toils and snares I have already come; ‘Tis Grace that brought me safe thus far and Grace will lead me home.
THE
COMMENDATION
The Lord has promised good to me. His word my hope secures. He will my shield and portion be, As long as life endures.
Yea, when this flesh and heart shall fail, And mortal life shall cease, I shall possess within the veil, A life of joy and peace.
When we’ve been here ten thousand years Bright shining as the sun. We’ve no less days to sing God’s praise Than when we’ve first begun
PRIEST: Give rest, O Christ, to your servant Valerie with your saints.
ALL: Where sorrow and pain are no more, neither sighing, but life everlasting.
PRIEST: You only are immortal, the creator and maker of mankind; and we are mortal, formed of the earth, and to earth shall we return. For so did you ordain when you created me, saying, “You are dust, and to dust you shall return.” All of us go down to the dust; yet even at the grave we make our song: Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!
ALL: Give rest, O Christ, to your servant Valerie with your saints, where sorrow and pain are no more, neither sighing, but life everlasting. Amen.
PRIEST: Lord have mercy.
ALL: Christ have mercy.
PRIEST: Lord have mercy
PRIEST: Our Father in Heaven,
ALL: Hallowed be thy Name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.
PRIEST: Let us commend our sister Valerie to the mercy of God our Maker and Redeemer.
Deliver your servant Valerie O Sovereign Lord Christ, from all evil, and set her free from every bond, that she may rest with all your saints in the eternal habitations; where with the Father and the Holy Spirit you live and reign, one God for ever and ever.
ALL: Amen.
PRIEST: Into Your hands, O merciful Savior, we commend Your servant, Valerie. Acknowledge, we humbly beseech You, a sheep of Your own fold, a lamb of Your own flock, a sinner of Your own redeeming. Receive her into the arms of Your mercy, in the blessed rest of everlasting peace, and into the glorious company of the saints in light. Amen.
MINISTER: Rest eternal grant unto her, O Lord.
ALL: And let light perpetual shine upon her.
MINISTER: May she rest in peace.
ALL: Amen.
MINISTER: May her soul and the souls of all the faithful, through the mercies of God, rest in peace.
ALL: Amen.
RECESSIONAL HYMN | ” Jesus Hold My Hand”
As I travel through this pilgrim land
There is a Friend who walks with me
Leads me safely through the sinking sand
It is the Christ of Calvary
This would be my prayer, dear Lord, each day
To help me do the best I can
For I need Thy light to guide me day and night
Blessed Jesus, hold my hand
(Chorus)
Jesus, hold my hand, I need Thee every hour
Through this pilgrim land
Protect me by The power
Hear my feeble plea, plea
O Lord, look down on me,
While I kneel in prayer I hope to meet you there
Blessed Jesus hold my hand
Let me travel in the light divine
That I may see the blessed way Keep me that I may be wholly Thine And sing redemption’s song some day I will be a soldier brave and true And ever firmly take a stand
As I onward go and daily meet the foe
Blessed Jesus, hold my hand
When I wander through the valley dim Toward the setting of the sun
If I a crown of life have won I have put my faith in Thee, dear Lord, That I may reach the golden strand
There’s no other friend on whom I can depend Blessed Jesus, hold my hand.
RECESSIONAL HYMN | ” Heaven’s Jubilee”
Some glad morning, we shall see Jesus in the air
Coming after you and me, joy is ours to share What rejoicing, that will be, when the saints shall raise
Headed for that jubilee, yonder in the skies.
(Chorus)
Oh what singing, Oh what shouting
On that happy morning, when we all shall rise
Oh what glory, hallelujah?
When we meet our blessed Saviour in the skies.
THE COMMITTAL
(Graveside Ceremony)
Seems that now I almost see all the sainted dead Raising for that jubilee, that is just ahead In the twinkling of an eye, changed with them to be All the living saints to fly to that jubilee
When with all the heavenly host, we’ll begin to sing, Singing in the Holy Ghost how the heav’ns ring Millions there will join the song, with them we shall be Praising Christ thru ages long, Heaven’s jubilee.
Everyone the Father gives to me will come to me: I will never turn away anyone who believes in me.
He who raised Jesus Christ from. the dead will also give new life to our mortal bodies through His indwelling Spirit.
My heart, therefore, is glad, and my spirit rejoices; my body also shall rest in hope.
You will show me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy, and in your right hand are pleasures for evermore.
I heard a voice from heaven saying “Write this: Happy are the dead who die in the faith of Christ! Henceforth,” says the Spirit “they may rest from the labours: for they take with them the record of their deeds.
Man born of a woman has but a short time to live. Like a flower he blossoms and then withers; like a shadow he flees and never stays.
In the midst of life we are in death; to whom can we turn for help, but to you, Lord, who are justly angered by our sins?
Lord God, holy and mighty, holy and immortal, holy and most merciful Saviour, deliver us from the bitter pains of eternal death. You know the secrets of our hearts: In your mercy hear our prayer, forgive us our sins, and at our last hour let us not fall away from you.
PRIEST:
In sure and certain hope of resurrection to eternal life through our Lord Jesus Christ, we commend to Almighty God our sister Valerie and we commit his body to the ground; earth to earth, ashes to ashes, dust to dust. And we beseech you in your infinite goodness to give us grace to live in your dear love and to die in your favor that when your well-beloved Son shall come again in judgment both this our sister and we ourselves may be found acceptable in your sight. Grant this for the sake of your Son Jesus Christ our Lord.
V. The Lord be with you
R. And also with you
V. Let us pray
Almighty God, with whom still live the spirits of those who die in the Lord, and with whom the souls of the faithful are in joy and felicity; we give you heartfelt thanks for the good examples of all your servants, who, having finished their course in faith, now find rest and refreshment. May we, with all who have died in the true faith of your holy Name, have perfect fulfillment and bliss in your eternal and everlasting glory; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Merciful God, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ who is the resurrection and the life: Receive that blessing which your well-beloved Son shall then pronounce: “Come, you blessed of my Father, receive the kingdom prepared for you from the beginning of the world.” Grant this, O merciful Father, through Jesus Christ, our Mediator and Redeemer.
Grant, O Lord, to all who are bereaved the Spirit of faith and courage, that they may have the strength to meet the days to come with steadfastness and patience; not sorrowing as those without hope, but in thankful remembrance of your great goodness, and in the joyful expectation of eternal life with those they love. And this we ask in the Name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
V. Rest eternal grant to her, O Lord R. And let light perpetual shine upon her.
V May she and all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. R. Amen.
V. The Lord bless her and keep her, the Lord make his face to shine upon her and be gracious unto her. The Lord lift up his countenance upon her and give her peace. R. Amen.
V. Alleluia! Christ is risen
R. The Lord is risen indeed. Alleluia.
V. Let us go forth in the name of Christ
R. Thanks be to God.
The Graveside Hymns
GRAVESIDE HYMN | It’s Alright Now”
There was a time I travelled a lonely sinful road; Beneath a heavy burden bending low;
But now all things are different, since Jesus took my load It’s alright now, I’m His I know.
(Chorus)
It’s alright now, for I am in my Saviour’s care
It’s alright now; my Saviour hears and answers prayer He’ll walk with me, (He’ll walk beside me)
Till I climb the heavenly stair,
And everything (And everything is alright now)
GRAVESIDE HYMN | ” 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 (that will be a happy day yes), a wonderful day
Glad day (that will be a happy day yes), a glorious day
There with all the holy angels and loved ones to stay
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 a glad reunion day
Good morning, everyone,
“I would like to say a few words in remembrance of our Loving mother,”
Mrs. Valerie Ann Clarke.
As we all know, she was a kind and benevolent person. A devoted mother, wife, grandmother, sister, aunt, godmother, cousin, and friend to so many…. Who departed this life on Sunday September 29th, 2024.
• Whenever someone met her for the first time, they quickly realized just how tall she was. Always well dressed, graceful, and very well mannered. My schoolteachers would often comment on her height because she towered above everyone else at that time.
• My mother by nature was a quiet, and patient woman, who taught me and my siblings the true value of what a good human being should be: “honest, trustworthy, with integrity, good behavior, proper etiquette, high moral standards, and most of all…. Respect for others.”
• One of my earliest childhood memories of her came while living in Buffalo New York, the summer of 1966. She took me with her sometimes when she went shopping downtown. I remembered that she was often approached by local recruiting agents from modeling agencies in the area. They would ask her to join their company and become a professional model.
• That’s…. when I first realized just how extraordinary a person she was. My mother captured the attention of all those who really got a chance to know her personally. “Reserved in personality, yet she was as real as real can get.”
• She was also a devoted Christian woman, and a longstanding member of the Anglican church. Where she spent many a Sunday enjoying a simple church service that inspired her to carry on long after our father Mr. Victor Clarke Senior passed into the afterlife.
• All of us who knew our mother Mrs. Clarke, remembered just how much she touched all of our lives for the better. Because she made everyone around her feel important, and that, in itself, is a very rear gift indeed.
• Forever a devoted wife to our father, loving mother to her children, and a pillar of strength in the community. In essence, we are all benefactors of her kindness, wisdom, charity and unbridled loyalty.
• She made it a special mission to show kindness to everyone, which included, our extended family members, loving and very attentive neighbors.
• Our mother had an infectious laugh, that would lightup the whole room, whenever someone made a funny joke. Yet, she always carried herself with dignity, pride, self-confidence, gracefulness, and a determination to succeed in all her endeavors.
• Holiday times were the best times, for she was such a good cook, that every Christmas, New Year’s, Easter and Junkanoo. Family members would visit our home in Mason’s Addition just to enjoy her delicious Guava Duff, and Cheesecake desserts.
• Mrs. Clarke was also one who sacrificed. She did that for so many…. And yet she never, asked for any reward. She would do, whatever she could, to help others help themselves. And that was her motto… self-help is the best help.
• My mother and my father really enjoyed music and dancing, which was one of their favorite pastimes.
• When enjoying an evening out on the town at local night clubs, friends would sometimes clear the dance floor just to watch her and my dad perform the latest dance moves. In essence, she really lived 10 lifetimes, in just one lifetime.
• For those of you who are old enough to remember…. Knew that she was the daughter of Police Officer Henry, and Lilly Taylor, one of five children of the Taylor Clan, residing in Nassau, and Clarence Town Long Island.
• Finally, I would like to share one last story with you today.
• Once when I was about 18 years old, I met a very pretty girl who agreed to go out with me to a local party on a Saturday night.
• Feeling very confident, I went home and asked my mom could I borrow her car. A 1968 Ford Mustang to take the young lady out to a party. She paused for a moment, then asked me…. “What is her name, and who are her parents?”
• I told her, and she agreed to let me have the car to go out on the date. Feeling very happy, and excited, I went out and bought a big box of candy, and a nice bouquet of flowers.
• I spent the better half of the afternoon cleaning and polishing the car until it was almost 8 O’clock, time to get cleaned up, and go pick up my date.
• When I left the house, my mom was in the living room watching TV. She wished me good luck, and off I went.
• Arriving at the young lady’s house at 8 O’clock. I was met at the front door by her mother. Who proceeded to tell me that her daughter was not at home because she had already left for the evening on a date with another guy.
• I tried to inquire more of the details, but…. None was given. I felt very disappointed, and quite angry! So, I decided to go back home.
• Returning home, I realized that my mother was busy at her sewing machine. She looked up and asked me, “why are you home so early?”
• I told her what happened and proceeded to my room. She got up, and quickly grabbed me by the arm. Looked me in the face, and said: Son, “I want you to get back in that car” “And go to the Party!”
• I tried to make excuses, but she insisted; “I want you to go, and have yourself a good time.” Taking her advice, I went to the party anyway.
• Well, to my surprise, I met a few of my friends there, who all introduced me to another pretty girl who I really enjoyed dancing with. By nights end, we had connected so well, that I gave her the box of candy and a bouquet of flowers.
• Leaving the party around mid-night I returned home, and to my surprise my mother was still up and reading a book in the den. She then asked me “how did your evening go son?”
• So, I told her, “Mom, I had a great time!” “And I met another girl” “we exchanged phone numbers tonight, and I promised to call her tomorrow.”
• She just looked at me, smiled, then said:
• Ricky, always remember: Follow through on your dreams and plans, because God is always with you, and he shall open all the right doors for you in his own good time.
• “Never give up on your dreams.”
• “Because, all the things that are worthy of you, shall fall into your hands one day.”
• And from that day on until now, I have kept this lesson that my mother taught me all those years ago. For it has served me well throughout my life.
• In closing…. I would like to say, “It is our only wish, she shall be remembered with reverence, and will suffer no more, and can finally find peace, glory, rest, and eternal happiness, united with our father in God’s great “Heavenly Kingdom.”
• May the angels hold her hand…. And may God shine his light upon her, and may the blessings be so many, that they can never be counted.
• The Clarke family would like to extend our sincere gratitude to each, and every one of you, for honoring our mother on this wonderful day of eternal rest…
“And’ we humbly thank you all, for joining us, in this celebration of life.”
AMEN
-Victor Clarke
Our Dear Aunt Val
Life brought Happy & I together as childhood friends at Summer Camp. Neither of us could imagine that the connection would evolve into family, as the Clarkes ended up moving directly across the street from the Johnsons in Nassau East. We were soon introduced to Valerie, the glamorous, sophisticated first lady of the family. Little did we know “Mrs. Clarke” would became our beloved Aunt Val.
My Mom Donna, Aunts Trevor and Kim, Stepdad Mr. Trevor, brother CJ, cousins Keith and Terry and I, can barely remember a time when Aunt Val was not in our lives. We enjoyed many years of life, love and laughter with her and Uncle Vic.
We went on to create many precious memories, thereafter, including long fun-filled drives to Gambier for Conch Fritters & Conch Salad and greatly anticipated wine dates, held at either my Mom’s house or around the corner at my place, complete with an array of cheeses, grapes and cold cuts laced with Mom’s world famous pepper sauce, just the way Aunt Val liked it!
Mr. Trevor would pop over whenever Aunt Val needed a handy man, with the right tools for the job and jokes for days. We looked forward to her candied yams and her delicious casserole at Thanksgiving and Christmas Dinners. She enjoyed her last Christmas and New Year’s Eve with us, at my place.
As her kids were all abroad, my Mom & Aunts happily assisted with taking Aunt Val on her almost daily errands to the Grocery Store, the Pharmacy, the Bank, the Hairdresser, the Post Office - Aunt Val always had somewhere to go!
We all share in the heartbreak of the boys and her sweet girl. She was treasured and cherished in life and will be forever missed by her family, on the other side of the street.
We raise our glasses in a final toast to our Aunt Val. She will live on in our hearts forever.
-T. Nicola McKay
To Val with Love
My first encounter with Val was when I was a little girl. She and her husband Victor campaigned for my father who ran for the FNM in the 1977 general elections. I remembered visiting them at their home in Gleniston Gardens, and meeting a stately lady who spoke with proper diction.
Fast forward to my return from university, when in 1989, I landed my first job with Chase Manhattan Trust Company, and our paths connected again! We immediately became friends and developed a bond that continued after I left Chase and until her demise on the 29th of September 2024.
At work, Val always presented herself with the utmost eloquence and grace. As she strutted through the office, I often pictured her on a runway in New York modelling for a top fashion house, because that was Val. Elegant and ladylike as she was, Val was no nonsense woman.
After losing my grandmother and my mother, in 2003 and 2006 respectively, I was drawn even closer to Val, because I felt that we shared the same qualities and beliefs. One primary belief was – ladies are to be seen and not heard.
Throughout the years, Val and I developed a routine where we would speak briefly through the week but at length on Sundays. As time would reveal, I could share any and everything with Val. She was trustworthy, jovial, and sincere. She became my confidant, my advisor, my 2nd mother and as she would later say “Aunt Val” to my three daughters, whom she loved dearly. While the landline in our house barely rang, my daughters knew that the primary person calling was none other than “Val”. If any of my daughters answered the phone, they would end up having a conversation with her. She always wanted to be updated on what they were doing, and she would always tell them she was very proud of them and their achievements. Each call would end with a “I love you”….to which they replied the same.
Val always encouraged me to be classy and conduct myself as a lady despite whatever struggle or issue I was faced with. To speak like a lady…to dress like a lady ….but to not let anyone take advantage of your soft, good nature. So, while ladies are to be seen and not heard, she also believed that ladies can have voices and convey their thoughts – It’s all in HOW you presented yourself and how you said it. There was no need to be loud and boisterous. I greatly admired and respected her.
She always encouraged me be diligent with work but to always make sure I took care of myself, through exercise, diet and other activities such as gardening and socializing with others and to have a sense of humor. Val would always tell me…..life is about having a balance. I admired how she did not have a stomach. She would always tell me….squats and lunges are excellent for women!! I could still picture her walking on Prince Charles Drive in the afternoons. I would often smile to myself and say- lawd, this is one tough cookie!!
We would talk non-stop about working out, cooking and what plants we had in our gardens. I recall taking some plants to her from my yard and that led to endless dialogue. I was happy to be able to do something for her yard.
We also shared a love of animals. When speaking to her about any of my pets, I always sensed how empathetic and kind she was – a trait that seems to be very rare today. In summary, Val was a woman of God, and she demonstrated her faith by attending mass at Epiphany.
I will miss my chats and visits to Val; it is a void that cannot be easily filled. May her beautiful soul rest in peace.
-Juliana Thompson
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
The Family
PALLBEARERS:
Julian Taylor
Volare Clarke
Volare Clarke Jr.
Jacobie Ricard
Ramon Taylor
Valentino Clarke
Tel: 394-BOOK (2665)
Mobile: (242) 818-3478
SCAN HERE
