A tribute to my Mother, Marjorie Balcombe

Oh death, where is thy sting?

Oh grave, where is thy victory? 1Corinthians 15:55

Death visited our family on May 16, 2010, and took my mother away. We know that death will come one day, but it came so suddenly that we were stunned by the impact. We have to console ourselves with the thoughts that our loved one has gone to a place of rest and that we will meet her again one day.{{more}}

What was distinctive about my mother was that she lived firstly for her God and secondly for her children. She was a selfless person. She worshipped at the Gospel Hall Church in Georgetown. She was a Sunday school teacher, and she journeyed to Langley Park to teach the little ones.

She had a melodious voice and was always willing to entertain the congregation in song. Before her illness, her attendance was impeccable as she would never be absent whilst the church doors were opened.

She was blessed with nine children who were the pride and joy of her life. She impressed upon them the importance of education and she contributed in her own special way by staying up with us while we burned the midnight candle.

Most of her children emigrated, but she could never be persuaded to settle permanently abroad. She would visit them, but as soon as winter set in she rushed back to her island paradise and her little church on the fringes of Georgetown. The telephone became an indispensable instrument in her life, for it afforded her the opportunity to spend many happy hours talking and laughing with her children. She lived for those calls that came often enough to fill her heart with love and joy. She lived a full and happy life as a housewife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, aunt, friend and believer.

She was an ardent cricket fan. The West Indies team excited her, and even when they were down and out she cheered them on and was faithful to them to the end. The 20/20 series brought some excitement in her last days as she sat up to watch match after match. My mother had an undaunting spirit, and even when she was in pain she would laugh heartily. We were all familiar with her distinctive chuckle. She had an amazing memory, and even up to the last days she was clear enough to discuss world issues. API has lost a faithful viewer.

She was a very good cook and it was difficult for others to live up to her high standard. Her tri-tri cakes were second to none, and her children and friends were mostly the recipients of these delicacies. Her generosity was well known, and neighbors, friends and children all benefited from the goodies that she received from her children.

My mother, Marjorie Balcombe, was buried on May 24, 2010. She was 83 years old. She must be happy with her send off because her children, friends and relatives were there to celebrate her life and to crown her grave with beautiful flowers. She would always remain alive in our hearts. Bless her soul.

I would like all those persons who share in our grief to know that we are eternally grateful for the love and support shown to us. We would like to assure all those persons that we would hold strong in the Lord.

Ada Johnson is a solicitor and barrister-at-law.
E-mail address is: exploringthelaw@yahoo.com