Sunrise: November 1, 1952 | Sunset: October 24, 2021 Age: 68 years SERVICE HELD AT
The Anglican Church of The Epiphany Prince Charles Drive, Elizabeth Estates, Nassau, The Bahamas
Friday, November 5, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. OFFICIATING
Canon Atma J. Budhu Rector, The Anglican Church of The Epiphany
Canon Delano Archer ORGANIST
Ms. Bernice Bowe INTERMENT
Ebenezer Methodist Church Cemetery Shirley Street, Nassau, The Bahamas
“All Saints Day”, November 1st 1952, was a special day in the lives of Iris and Arlington Miller. They welcomed their second child, a girl, whom they named Alelia Laurraine Miller. From a very early age, Leila, as she was affectionately called by friends and family, demonstrated that she was an independent, strong-willed, outspoken and opinionated person who did not hesitate to fix your business straight. She was however, a kind-hearted, caring person, with a good spirit who always looked out for the welfare of others. She had a great sense of humor and always livened up the party with her jokes, and was always a huge presence in any room she was in. Leila’s early education began at Oakes Field Primary School before moving to ‘The’ Government High School graduating with the class of 1970. Her further ambitions led her to nursing by pursuing advanced studies at Kings College London. Upon her return to The Bahamas, she continued her nursing career at The Princess Margaret Hospital (PMH), and subsequently worked as a nurse at the Lyford Cay Hospital as well. Eventually, she switched careers and moved to the Ministry of Education to work in the School Welfare Department. She then later served as a school Guidance Counselor at Carlton Francis Primary School, before finally being stationed at the Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre in the Drug Unit where she remained until she retired in 2017. In 1998, she also served as the Coordinator for the Providing Access to Continued Education (PACE Bahamas) program for teenage mothers. She later served as Treasurer for the PACE Foundation up to the time of her death. During her tenure with Sandilands, she was also assigned to Juvenile Court on a weekly basis to assist the juvenile panel up to her retirement. While at Sandilands, Lelia took a special affinity to persons in the Lignum Vita Alumni Group and the Psychiatric Group Home for Men and Women. She became an integral part in their lives and gave selflessly to their continued development. As a Social Services officer, she volunteered for many years to travel to the Family Islands for wellness assessments during the times of hurricanes. In September 2019, one of her final acts of kindness in this regard was the delivery of food on behalf of one of her former colleagues to the Fox Hill food depot following Hurricane Dorian, even though she was not feeling well at the time. Lelia married Nathanial ‘Fonz’ Adderley, on April 14th 1979, and they shared 42 wonderful years together. This union produced one son, Nathan Anwar, who they both treasured and sought to provide the best education, foundation and care. Lelia was also blessed to have two bonus daughters, Daphne Adderley and Sasha Gibson, who she loved deeply. Lelia’s heartstring was her son Nathan Anwar; you would think she was the first and only mom who had a son. She was immensely proud of his accomplishments and became actively involved in many of his extracurricular activities to provide him with support and encouragement. After her children, Lelia’s greatest joys came from her grandchildren: Desean, Dalea, Athena, Abigail, Noah
and Avery. Her friends and family all knew her grandchildren and would often hear stories of their antics and accomplishments as Lelia was always eager to tell a good story – even if the facts were slightly embellished. She was a very dedicated worker and loyal friend, and an avid gardener and member of the City Garden Club. She also served as a volunteer for the Yellow Bird Association at PMH and she was a vibrant member of the Tea Party Girls. A founding member of the Anglican Church of the Epiphany, she remained a dedicated member, serving in several capacities including on the usher board and lector (Reader) at church. She was among the first confirmands at Epiphany in the garden. She became ill on September 9th 2019, and was diagnosed with a very aggressive form of brain cancer called glioblastoma. Lelia fought a valiant battle in spite of the many challenges, and spent her last days basking in the attention of her family and dear friends. We thank them all for the love shown to her throughout her life, during her battle with cancer, and especially during the last days of her life. Lelia remained faithful to her God, her church, country and her family until the end. Having received prayers and blessings from her Parish Priest on Sunday, October 24th 2021 at home, this faithful servant of God peacefully departed this earth surrounded by her husband, children, youngest grandchildren, family and friends to be with her Lord. Lelia was predeceased by her beloved mother, Iris Miller and by her beloved nephew, Kareem Hanna. She is survived by her loving husband: Nathaniel ‘Fonz’ Adderley; and her children: Nathan Anwar (Amanda), Daphne Adderley, and Sasha (David) Gibson; her grandchildren: Desean, Dalea, Athena, Abigail, Noah and Avery; father: Arlington (Stella) Miller; siblings: Una (Bruce) Delancy, Earl (Dianne) Miller, Caron (Robert) Greene, Zelia (Marvin) Bethell; Aunts: Adelaide Pinder, Iteah Ritchie, Ruby Davis; Uncle: Rev. Ivan Butler Sr.; Nieces and Nephews: Chaz and Cameron Miller, Simone Hanna, Tonia Mullings, Freeman Smith, Tyrone Smith, Sonia, Wayde and Felicia Adderley, Eduardo, Edroy and Camille Major, Dr. Rashad Hall, Erin (Travis) Jones; In-laws: Arlene Smith, Annalee Adderley, Altermease (Edison) Major, Cynthia (Ronald) Hall, Verneta (Edward) Bain, Donald (Carolyn) Adderley, Kenneth and Pamela Lewis; Grand Niece and Nephew: Karea and Kasey Hanna; Cousins: Rev Dr. Ivan and Joann Butler Jr., Wentsworth, Jonathan, Samuel, Nathan and Emmanuel Butler, Apostle Paul Butler, Apostle David Butler, Abraham, Nathaniel and Michael Butler, Rev. Patrick Levarity, Bernardo, Dennis, Willis and Rontonio Levarity, Ademain and
Adolphus (A.P.) (Melonie) Pinder, Paula Darville, Michael, Vernon, Ray, Debbie and Laverne Miller, Louise Butler-Simmons, Elizabeth Mcmimms, Maria Green, Christine Neely, Jan, Ingrid, Virginia and Cindy Levarity, Latrese and Todd Torres, Brianne Williams, Rudolph & Catherine Levarity, The Stuart Family, Joanna Brown, Lucy and Cleo Anderson, Minera and Whitfield Rolle, Tanya and Ezra Pratt, Camina and Tina Miller, Lillis Ramsey, Sharon and Jimmy Jones, Catherine Hamilton, Claudette Bees; Godchildren: Ira Wallace, Kijana Thompson, Chris Kelly, Kim Kikivarakis-Dillet, Maria Kleinon, Anthonia Culmer, Dahria Franks Relatives and Close Friends: Margaret Rogers, Agatha and Fr. Delano Archer, Eartha ‘Pinky’ and Dewitt Hanna, Claudette and Kenneth Bethell, Daisy Russell, Sonia and Rayon Brown, Carmen Major, Rochelle Basden, Pam Burnside, Stephanie Poitier, Rose Ferguson, Dawn and Sparkman Ferguson, Maria Kelley, Rev. Caroline Rolle, Julia Burnside, Vera and Sidney Campbell, Anthony Campbell, Shenika Campbell, Ancilla Stuart, Andrae Smith, Barbara and Gerald Sawyer, Gerrard and Shaunda Sawyer, Elaine and Trevor Hutchinson, Symone Sawyer, Sir Michael and Lady Camille Barnett, Pastor Samuel and Mrs. Mortimer, Kenneth and Karen Walcott, Jaime and Amanda Lewis, Sylvia and Greg Bonimy, Don and Kay Aranha, Dr. Kay Bain, Cheryl Bain, Ellen and Brian Serville, Beverly and Dr. Leslie Culmer, Erica Rolle, Stafford Armbrister and the Armbrister Family, Janice Davis, Roland Smith and the Byron Smith Family, Claudius and Lorna Knowles, Craig Tony and Candise Gomez, Evan and Shanae Dean, Shane and Amanda Freedman, Giovani and Sharon Smith, Anwar ‘House’ Elliott, Ge-Ann and Delano Aranha, Miles and Deborah Parker, Drs. Amir and Antonelle Sultani, Geoffrey Stuart, Gia Sands, Kandice and Dr. Tyneil Cargill, The Family of the Late Doris Knowles, James Gomez, Christopher Stuart and the Stuart Family, Rodney Rolle and The Rolle Family, Errol and Dorothy Strachan, Collis and Willie Bell, Meryl Deveaux, Maria Deleveaux, Marissa Kleinow, Pat Peterson, Salomi and Akilah Gibson, Gail and Ronald Duncombe, Carolyn Bethel, Thaddeus Rahming and the Rahming Family, Hervin McPhee and the McPhee Family, Ms. Anna, Fr. Simeon Roberts, Rev’d Canon Atma Budhu and Mrs. Badhu, The Anglican Church of the Epiphany, The Usher Board of Epiphany, PACE Foundation, City Guardian Club, The Tea Girls, The Government High School Class of 1970, Sandilands Rehabilitation Centre, The Yellow Bird Association, and many, many more, too numerous to mention in this limited space. Special thanks to her various caregivers including Dr. Devaughn Curling and his staff, Dr. Gabrielle Hunt-Burrows, Dr. Clyde Munnings, Dr. Christian Allen, Nurse Jennifer Williams, Nurse Lindyanna Rahming, the doctors and nurses of Doctors Hospital, and Liranna Farrah Silver.
THE RECEPTION OF THE BODY Priest:
With faith in Jesus Christ, we receive the body of our sister Alelia for burial. Our sister 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.
Priest: All:
The Lord be with you. And also with you.
Priest:
O God of grace and glory, we remember before you this day our sister Alelia. 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. Amen.
THE OPENING SENTENCES 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 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 ..................................................................................................... “Guide Me, O Thou Great Redeemer” Guide me, O thou great Jehovah. Pilgrim through this barren land; I am weak, but thou art mighty, hold me with thy powerful hand: Bread of heaven, Feed me till I want no more.
Open now the crystal fountain, Whence the healing stream doth flow; Let the fire and cloudy pillar Lead me all my journey through; Strong Deliverer, be thou still my strength and shield.
When I tread the verge of Jordan, bid my anxious fears subside. death of death, and hell’s destruction, land me safe on Canaan’s side; Songs of praises, I will ever give to thee. AS I KNEW HER.................................................................................................................. Sharon Levarity Jones (Cousin) CONDOLENCES..................................................................................................................... Stafford Armbrister (Cousin) TRIBUTE............................................................................................................................. Nathan (Anwar) Adderley (Son) THE COLLECT President: Almighty God, we remember before you today your faithful servant Alelia and we pray that, having opened to her the gate of 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. OLD TESTAMENT READING............................................................................................. Dalea Moss (Grand Daughter) Reader:
A reading from the Word of God, written in the Book of Wisdom (3:1-5, 9).
But the souls of the righteous are in the hand of God, and no torment will ever touch them. In the eyes of the foolish they seemed to have died, and their departure was thought to be a disaster, and their going from us to be their destruction; but they are at peace. For though in the sight of others they were punished, their hope is full of immortality. Having been disciplined a little, they will receive great good, because God tested them and found them worthy to Himself. Those who trust in Him will understand truth, and the faithful will abide with Him in love. Reader: All:
The Word of The Lord. Thanks be to God.
HYMN......................................................................................................................................... “The Lord’s My Shepherd” The Lord’s my shepherd, I’ll shall not want, He makes me down to lie In pastures green, He leadeth me The quiet water by.
Yea, though I walk in death’s dark vale, Yet will I fear no ill, For thou art with me, and thy rod And staff me comfort still.
My soul he doth restore again, And me to walk doth make Within the paths of righteousness, E’en for his own name’s sake.
My table thou hast furnished In presence of my foes, My head thou dost with oil anoint, And my cup overflows.
Goodness and mercy all my life Shall surely follow me, And in God’s house for evermore My dwelling place shall be. NEW TESTAMENT READING....................................................................................................... Adelaide Pinder (Aunt) Reader:
A reading of the Word of God, written in the First Letter of Paul to the Thessalonians (4:13-18)
But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers and sisters, about those who have died, so that you may not grieve as others who do not have hope. For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with Him those who have died. For this we declare to you that by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will by no means precede those who have died. For the Lord Himself, with cry of command, with the archangel’s call and with the sound of God’s trumpet, will descend from heaven, and the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up in the clouds together with them to meet the Lord in the air; and so we will be with the Lord for ever. Therefore encourage one another with these words. Reader: All:
The Word of the Lord. Thanks be to God.
THE GRADUAL HYMN......................................................................................... “My Faith Has Found A Resting Place” My faith has found a resting place, Not in device or creed; I trust the ever living One, His wounds for me shall plead.
My heart is leaning on the Word, The written Word of God, Salvation by my Savior’s Name, Salvation through His blood.
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.
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.
THE GOSPEL Reader:
A reading from the Holy Gospel according to John (14:1-6)
“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. 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? 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. You know the way to the place where I am going.” Thomas said to him, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way?” Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. Reader: All:
The Gospel of Christ. Praise to Christ our Lord.
SERMON President: Let us with confidence and hope confess the faith into which we were 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. 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. THE INTERCESSIONS ..............................................................................................Amanda Adderley (Daughter-in-law) Leader: All:
For our sister Alelia let us pray to our Lord Jesus Christ who said, “I am Resurrection and I am Life”. Hear us, Lord.
Leader: All:
Lord, You consoled Martha and Mary in their distress; draw near to us who mourn for our sister Alelia and dry the tears of those who weep. Hear us, Lord.
Leader: All:
You wept at the grave of Lazarus, your friend; comfort us in our sorrow. Hear us, Lord.
Leader: All:
You raised the dead to life; give our sister Alelia eternal life. Hear us, Lord.
Leader: All:
You promised paradise to the thief who repented; bring our sister Alelia to the joys of heaven. Hear us, Lord.
Leader:
Our sister Alelia was washed in baptism and anointed with the Holy Spirit; give her fellowship with all your
All:
saints. Hear us, Lord.
Leader: All:
She was nourished with your Body and Blood; grant her a place at the table in your heavenly kingdom. Hear us, Lord.
Leader:
Comfort us in our sorrows at the death of our sister Alelia. Let our faith be our consolation, and eternal life our hope. Hear us, Lord.
All:
President: Lord Jesus Christ, we commend to you our sister Alelia, who was reborn by water and the Spirit in Holy Baptism. Grant that her death may recall to us our victory over death, and be an occasion for us to renew our trust in your Father’s love. Give us, we pray, the faith to follow where you have led the way, and where you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, throughout all ages, world without end. All: Amen. ACT OF 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 us 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 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 glory of your Name. Amen. 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. THE GREETING OF PEACE Celebrant: We are the Body of Christ. By the One Spirit we were all baptized into one Body. All: Let us then pursue the things that make for peace and build up the common life. OFFERTORY HYMN.................................................................................................................................. “And Can It Be” And can it be that I should gain, an interest in the Saviour’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 myst’ry all! Th’ Immortal dies! Who can explore His strange design? In vain the first born 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 quick’ning ray, I woke, the dungeon flamed with light: My chains fell off, my heart was free, I rose, went forth and followed Thee. No condemnation now I dread, Jesus, with all in Him is mine; Alive in Him, my living Head, and clothed in righteousness divine, Bold I approach th’eternal throne, and claim the crown, thru Christ, my own 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 a 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, 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. All:
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. 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 glory and praise for ever. In your boundless wisdom you brought creation into being; In your great love you fashioned us in your image; In your tender compassion you sent your Son, Jesus Christ, our Savior, to share our human nature; In the power of the Holy Spirit, He overcame the power of sin and death and brought your people to new birth as first fruits of your new creation.
On the night that He was betrayed, He took bread, and when He had given thanks to you, He broke it and gave it to his disciples and said: “Take this and eat it; This is My Body which is given for you, Do this for the remembrance of me”.
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 the command of your dearly beloved Son 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 gifts 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 new and unending life, may your Holy Spirit establish us as 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 and in Him and through Him, by the power of the Holy Spirit, we worship You, Father Almighty, with all who stand before you in earth and heaven, in songs of everlasting praise: All: Blessing and honor and glory and power, be yours forever and ever. Amen. THE LORD’S PRAYER Celebrant: As our Savior 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 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. THE 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. THE AGNUS DEI All:
Lamb of God, You take away the sin of the world; grant her rest. Lamb of God, You take away the sin of the world: grant her rest. Lamb of God, You take away the sin of the world; grant her rest eternal.
THE COMMUNION THE INVITATION Celebrant: The Gifts of God for the People of God. All: Our Souls will feast and be satisfied, and we will sing glad songs of praise to Him. SOLO.......................................................................................................................................................Mr. Craig Ferguson
COMMUNION HYMN........................................................................................... “Here, O Lord, the Sound of My Call” Hear O Lord the sound of my call; Hear O Lord and have mercy. My soul is longing for the glory of you. O hear O Lord and answer me.
Why do I no longer feel Like I’ve a place to stay? O take me where someone will care , So fear will go away.
Every night before I sleep I pray my soul to take Or else I pray that loneliness Is gone when I awake.
In you Lord I place my cares And all my troubles too. O grant, dear Lord, that some day soon I’ll live in peace with you.
HYMN................................................................................................................................................. “I Am Thine O Lord” I am Thine, O Lord, I have heard Thy voice, And it told Thy love to me; But I long to rise in the arms of faith, And be closer drawn to Thee.
Consecrate me now to Thy service, Lord, By the pow’r of grace divine; Let my soul look up with a steadfast hope, And my will be lost in Thine.
Draw me nearer, nearer blessed Lord, To the cross where Thou hast died; Draw me nearer, nearer blessed Lord, To thy precious, blessing side.
O the pure delight of a single hour That before Thy throne I spend, When I kneel in prayer, and with Thee, my God, I commune as friend with friend!
There are depths of love that I cannot know Till I cross the narrow sea; There are heights of joy that I may not reach Till I rest in peace with 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 joy with all Your saints, through Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen.
RECESSIONAL HYMN.................................................................................................................................... “It Is Well” When peace, like a river, attendeth my way, When sorrows like sea billows roll; Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say, It is well, it is well, with my soul.
For me, be it Christ, be it Christ hence to live: If Jordan above me shall roll, No pang shall be mine, for in death as in life Thou wilt whisper Thy peace to my soul.
Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come, Let this blest assurance control, That Christ has regarded my helpless estate, And hath shed His own blood for my soul.
But, Lord, ’tis for Thee, for Thy coming we wait, The sky, not the grave, is our goal; Oh, trump of the angel! Oh, voice of the Lord! Blessed hope, blessed rest of my soul!
My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought! My sin, not in part but the whole, Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more, Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!
And Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight, The clouds be rolled back as a scroll; The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend, Even so, it is well with my soul. It is well, with my soul, It is well, it is well, with my soul.
THE COMMENDATION President: All:
Blessed by God our Father: The Creator and Preserver of all life.
President: All:
Blessed be Jesus Christ: The Saviour and Redeemer of mankind.
President: All:
Blessed be the Holy Spirit: The Enabler and Sustainer of those who seek for grace.
President: All:
The Lord be with you. And also with you.
Celebrant: Give rest, O Christ, to Your servant with Your saints. All: Where sorrow and pain are no more, neither sighing, but life everlasting. Celebrant: 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 shall You 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 with Your saints, where sorrow and pain are no more, neither sighing, but life everlasting. Celebrant: Let us commend our sister Alelia to the mercy of God our Maker and Redeemer. Deliver Your servant, Alelia
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 forever and ever. All: Amen. Celebrant: Into Your hands, O merciful Savior we commend your servant Alelia . 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. All: Amen. Celebrant: Rest eternal grant to her, O Lord; All: And let light perpetual shine upon her. Celebrant: May she and all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. All: Amen. Celebrant: Let us go forth in the Name of Christ. All: Thanks be to God. RECESSIONAL....................................................................................................................................... “The Strife Is O’er” Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia! The strife is o’er, the battle done; Now is the Victor’s triumph won; O let the song of praise be sung. Alleluia!
Death’s mightiest powers have done their worst, And Jesus hath His foes dispersed Let shouts of praise and joy outburst. Alleluia!
On the third morn He rose again Glorious in majesty to reign; O let us swell the joyful strain. Alleluia! Lord, by the stripes which wounded Thee From death’s dread sting Thy servants free, That we may live, and sing to Thee. Alleluia!
GRAVESIDE HYMNS FARTHER ALONG Tempted and tried we’re oft made to wonder, Why it should be thus all the day long, While there are others living about us, Never molested tho in the wrong.
EASTERN GATE I will meet you in the morning Just inside the Eastern Gate; There be ready, faithful pilgrim, Lest with you it be too late.
Farther along we’ll know all about it, Farther along we’ll understand why; Cheer up, my brothers, live in the sunshine We’ll understand it all by and by.
I will meet you, I will meet you Just inside the Eastern Gate over there; I will meet you, I will meet you I will meet you in the morning over there.
When death has come and taken our loved ones, It leaves our home so lonely and drear; Then do we wonder, why others prosper, Living so wicked year after year. Faithful till death said our loving Master, A few more days to labor and wait; Toils of the road will then seem as nothing, As we sweep thru that beautiful gate. When we see Jesus coming in glory, When He comes from His home in the sky; Then we shall meet Him in that bright mansion, We’ll understand it all by and by. 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. 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 traveling days are over, Not a shadow, not a sigh. 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.
If you hasten off to glory, Linger near the Eastern Gate; For I’m coming in the morning, So you’ll not have long to wait. Keep your lamps all trimmed and burning For the Bridegroom watch and wait, He’ll be with us at the meeting, Just inside the Eastern Gate. O, the joy of that glad meeting, With the saints who for us wait! What a Blessed happy meeting, Just inside the Eastern Gate. 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 hill-tops with hearts all aglow. That will be a glad reunion day. 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 a glad reunion day.
TRIBUTE TO MY LOVING WIFE
“Remember that you have only one soul, only one death to die; only one life which is short and has to be lived by you alone; and that there is only one glory, which is eternal. If you do this, there will be many things about which you care nothing.” -St. Teresa of Avila Babes, I could never imagine that after chasing you in 1970 in South Andros, and driving around on my motorbike, that 51 years later we would still be together. Much has happened during that time, but our love for each other has remained steadfast. I will forever cherish those good times – the parties, the laughter, the travel, the quiet times. Family time was always treasured, especially with our children and grandchildren. Sadly, I will have to spoil our newest grandchildren, Noah and Avery by myself. I cannot imagine life without you because you catered to me in so many ways. I will never forget, as you will always be in my heart. Farewell, sleep on my love, my friend, my confidant, Your Fonz.
THANK YOU
THANK YOU for everything. Since November 8th 1981, we have been inseparable, for 40 years you have loved me unconditionally. You have been by nurse, teacher, mentor, cheerleader, disciplinarian, confidant, personal ATM, and my best friend. As with most children with their parents, as a child I took you for granted and thought you be unreasonable at times. When in fact all you were doing was preparing me for the future, teaching me about the world, and molding me to be good individual. You ensured that I had sufficient exposure to all things and was always there to keep me in line and focused attaining my goals. Your bark was loud but your bite was exaggerated, you had
a heart of gold and was always there to help and assist others in need. Lelia you supported me in everything I did, you never missed a swim meet, basketball game, or baseball game, you cheered if I came first or last, if I scored 20 points or 5 points, or if I hit homeruns or dropped a routine flyball. All of my friends became your adopted children and their parents also became your friends. All of my coworkers past and present know my routine, get to work about 7 a.m. work until about 8am but 8am-830am I was on my first leg of daily calls with you. Sometimes we talked about nothing or maybe we were making plans for later in the day. I will miss those talks, I will miss your voice, I will miss you asking me for the password to your email, Mommy I will miss you. You showed me the importance of sacrificing and pouring all into raising children and I promise to do the same for Avery and Noah. I will ensure that they know, their grandmothers legacy and what she would expect from them and at the same time be there biggest cheerleader and their best friend the same way you did for me. I love you Mommy you have earned your rest. Always and forever. Anwar TRIBUTE FROM THE SIBLINGS Our sister has gone away and therefore our lives will never be the same. The hardest part of losing you is not having to say goodbye, but rather learning to live without you but Jesus knows best. Of all the blessings, to have had you for a sister was the greatest one if all. The time we spent together meant the world to us. We are so grateful for the years we shared. Leila losing you brought us so much sorrow and pain. We would give anything to see your smiling face again. It gives us great comfort knowing that you no longer have to suf-
fer. You fought a good fight. Did you ever know that you were our Hero and everything we would like to be, for you were the wings beneath our wings. Our Siblings chain is broken now and nothing will ever be the same. But as God takes us one by one the chain will link again. We love you but Jesus loves you best. Undertaker please drive slow for the Lady you are hauling is our sister Lelia. Dear lord we hate to see her go. Una, Earl and Caron
TRIBUTE My dear niece Lelia paying tribute to you is an honor that comes with the cost of great pain. You loved, you lived and you cared in such a special way. You nurtured the soil of so many hearts including mine. Life was truly better because you were among us. Your strength is a gift that I now take comfort in as I recall all of the memories we shared. Saying goodbye is too permanent because I believe we’ll see each other again. So I will say, farewell as you journey to your promised place (God’s Garden). Lelia is in God’s Garden God looked around His garden and found an empty space He then look down upon the earth and saw your tired face
He put His arms around you and lifted you to rest God’s garden must be beautiful He always takes His best He knew that you were suffering He knew you were in pain He knew that you would never get well again He saw the road was getting rough and the hills were hard to climb So He closed your weary eyelids and whispered “Peace bethine” It broke our hearts to lose you but you didn’t go alone For part of us went you the day God you home Rest in Peace My Dear Niece Love you and missed you dearly Aunt Laide TRIBUTE TO MY MOTHER-IN-LAW As someone said to me upon your passing, “To know Lelia was to love her” and this is so true. You were a kind but firm, funny but no-nonsense, take control and always willing to help out, you were woman who was loved by many. You were giving, loyal, and thoughtful. Always sending something home for me and, especially when I was pregnant, always concerned that I was “comfortable”. What a blessing to have such a devoted mother-in-law. During my hospital stay and at home recovery for my appendectomy, you were constantly by my side checking in on me, making sure the nurses knew whose daughter in law I was so I could get the best treatment, and providing nurturing care and support. I consider myself so fortunate that I was able to have you in my life for 11 years, and although I wish we had you around for many more years, I know that you are finally at peace, out of your suffering and that brings me comfort. Lelia, I remember when we met with the Doctor after your
surgery to discuss your diagnosis and prognosis. We were all devastated and struggling to process what we were hearing, but you sat there, composed and determined. As we were leaving you said to me, “Amanda, I’m going to live my life and enjoy the rest of my time here.” It struck me that only a really strong person could be face to face with their mortality, but remain so steadfast and focused. And so, that was how you lived out the rest of your days – steadfast, focused, determined. I know your treatments were difficult, I know the hospital stays were draining, I know this cancer took a toll on your body, but you got up each day and faced it steadfast, ready to overcome the challenge. I admired that about you, and I pray that we will be able to foster those qualities in Noah and Avery. I told Nathan the other day that Noah has received the gift of gab like his Uncle Kareem, and Avery has inherited your determination, assertiveness, and sassy spirit. What a blessing to the family that we will be able to see qualities of our beloved and dearly departed loved ones in the next generation. I know you will be watching over us, and in particular, your grandbabies, from heaven. Know that every time we visit “Alelia’s Garden” and take in the beauty of the flowers you so lovingly planted, we will speak your name so our children will think of you whenever they see the beauty in nature. Rest in peace. Love, Amanda MINUTES OF LIGHT Never enough minutes Never enough hours Never enough moments Yet the Lord makes it, so it’s enough for him. Alelia and Zelia Zeela and Leila What’s in a name Coincidence or chance that these cousins-sisters would live such close lives. Weaved together in endearing love Each mothering not just their own child but also each other’s children
Reminiscence……hers, the first phone number I was taught perhaps even before my own Anything happens - call Auntie Leila Moments shared from dawn til dusk. From day to day. From year to year. Even the green and red colors of the season singing through the air at every Christmas dinner we shared. Where will the village be this year…. Where will we gather How, will we gather Cousins, sisters, best friends. Forever rowing Forever loving each other. I have known you for as many minutes as I have known my own Mother Auntie Leila, There from the moment I came into my parents lives Hot pink suit and all Ever grateful for your presence that shaped my life. What is life now without you both? You have only left me with one half of two The singular raw ache in our hearts It will dim….but never fade I guess we will find our way in the darkness Through moments of light Minutes of light, Gone from our eyes now But forever shining bright in our hearts.
We love you Auntie Leila Erin Zelia Marvin Travis, and your Grayson
DEAR NANA, You were an absolute treasure in my life. When my mom became sick, you stepped in to take care of me even though I was already living with you and Papa. You picked me up and dropped me off at school each day. We did everything together. You introduced me to all your friends and made sure they knew that I was “your” granddaughter. You and papa spoiled me rotten. When you became sick, my whole world crumbled and I couldn’t understand why. You’re not here with me physically anymore and it hurts. But... I’m grateful for all the memories I had with you and will cherish them forever. I love you Nana, rest in peace Love Dalea DEAR LEILS: I was so lucky to have you in my life. God knows how special you were to me. You know how special you were to me. We shared a connection that was unique to us and impenetrable. You were outspoken and never hesitated to let me know exactly what was on your mind. Yet, even during the times when I was wrong, you’d always check on me and allow me to vent and then give advice, while assuring me that things would be okay. I’ll miss our conversations dearly. They were filled with laughs, lessons and love. I will always hold you near and dear to my heart. Know that although, you are no longer here physically, your spirit will remain alive and will in me and our family. Thank you for being you. Thank you for being my leils. Continue to take your rest. Love Daphne
WHEN ASKED TO WRITE A TRIBUTE TO LEILA FROM THE BOYS . . . WE CONSIDERED IT A PRIVILEGE TO HONOR THE MEMORY OF THIS EXCEPTIONAL WOMAN THAT WE AFFECTIONATELY CALLED “MOM”. HERE ARE SOME SENTIMENTS FROM JUST A FEW OF HER OTHER SONS: Geoffrey Stuart: Mrs. Adderley, a loving mother and wife, and mother to many. She was a wonderful person to know and be around. From we knew her she enjoyed sports especially tennis. She was one of our biggest fans, she always showed Anwar and the boys her support, and one of our number one fans (could still hear her cheering). As we all got older and went our separate ways she would still ask to see how we are doing and to make sure we are alright - she cared about us all. WE LOVE YOU! We all have our own fond memories of Mrs. Adderley and I know for sure there are plenty of them from sporting events cheering to being around family and friends talking with everyone (one of my fondest memories of her is dancing with Anwar at his wedding). She may have had one child but she adopted many more, we all will miss you. Rice crispy treats won’t be the same! Giovanii Smith: Good byes are only for those who love with their eyes. Because those who love with their heart and soul, there is no such thing as separation. For the majority of our lives, you have been there to help, guide and protect us as a mother is supposed to. Though you didn’t birth me, you were always there. Never missed a game, hey birthday or celebration. You made us laugh and made us cry. Moms . . . You will be missed. So for now I say till meet again . . . it’s never goodbye. Love G Amir Sultani: Mum you will truly be missed. I always admired your caring and selfless nature. A true friend and someone who was always a pleasure to be around. Your kindness and smile were contagious and your memory will live forever. Please continue to pray for and watch over us, like you al-
ways did, and we will continue to be a friend and brother to your Baby Boy Nathan. Until we meet again. Love you, Shake! Amir. And to you my brother Nathan, My deepest condolences to you and you entire family in this difficult time. God has truly gained an angel. Shane Freedman: A beautiful soul will never be forgotten. When I homered (and struck out) in softball, Leila was there. When I graduated high school, Leila was there. When I married my wife, Leila was there and when we celebrated the birth of my firstborn, of course, Leila was there. Throughout the highlights of my life Leila’s support for me and all of her sons was ever-present and unwavering. Her home was always open, a delicious plate of food was always on offer and she would be sure to let you know when too much time had passed in between visits. A mother’s love is an amazing thing, even more amazing when you have more than one. For that Mom’s, I am forever grateful. “Goodbye is not forever or the end. It just means that I will miss you very much. Love you and until we meet again.” Anwar Elliott: You were there for us from the beginning - as a school shop volunteer, a class mother, you attended all our sporting events, school bake sales to birthdays, graduations and weddings. You defended us at sporting events when we appeared gigantic for our age; scolding other coaches and
parents saying, “We don’t feed our boys spaghetti from the can. We give them spaghetti made from scratch!” You were instrumental in procuring the right individuals to attend my medical needs and you were there for me after the passing of my own mother. YOU WERE ALWAYS THERE!!! How are we to adjust? I guess I will start this transition by saying Thank you! Words cannot even begin to scratch the surface of my gratitude, my love and my adoration for you. You have touched me, your family, friends, co-workers, counselees and even strangers. In the process you have left a little bit of Leila with us all and in doing so, you ensured our memories of you will endure in our thoughts and in our hearts. We loved you then, we love you now and we will continue to love you. Sleep in peace, Mom! ~ Your Sons ~ TRIBUTE FROM SONIA In some ways, your success in life is revealed by the number of people that line up to thank you when you die. It is revealed by the overflowing of gratitude and love, expressed by the people whose lives you have touched, in ways that even you may not understand. Over the past two years or so of Alelia’s illness, I saw the need to develop a strategy when visiting, partly due to the pandemic, but largely due to the constant flow of best friends that came to visit, bring an arrangement, bring a dish or just sit and talk. Many times her family would just marvel at the amount of people who came by and I remarked as I am sure many others did, that this was because of the way Alelia lived her life, to the full, and full of generosity. What made her most impactful was she was multi-dimensional and the most endearing of her qualities was her sharp wit and sharp tongue, doling out many of her Aleliaisms, with an infectious smile. As the head of the COFTEM or Creating Opportunities for Teenage Mothers program for the Zonta Club of Nassau,
I met Alelia around 1997, when she became the Coordinator at the PACE School, a school for teenage mothers. At that time classes where held upstairs at the Central Gospel Chapel Sunday School room. My job was to ensure that there was a weekly speaker every Thursday at 1pm and on the last Friday of the month there was a speaker and treats for Follow up. The weekly speakers taught the students topics such as ante-natal, post-natal care and there were many former students who came in to encourage the girls to not give up on their dreams. Monthly follow up was held for former PACE students enrolled in mainstream school who Alelia said she threatened to ensure they showed up. I attended every week and our friendship grew, but we hit it off immediately as she was very funny and engaging and we shared a passion that these girls deserved a second chance and needed to understand that pregnancy did not mean your life was over. She brought in important changes that I did not understand at the time, she ended the annual graduation ceremony that was often burdensome for students who could not afford a decent outfit to wear. This was when I was introduced to her first ‘ism’, she simply said with a smile, you are leaving PACE, but you have not accomplished anything yet. We all understood that meant go back to high school or seek training or get a job. Shortly after I met Alelia she would wag her finger at me and tell me you all (meaning you Zontians) need to get out of these people place and build a school for these girls. That was the second ‘ism’ and as I knew what was good for me, I went back to the club and shared what I was told. In response we formed the PACE Foundation in 2004, though we had started meeting a year earlier. I was the founding president and Alelia was the founding treasurer. I then learned, her third ‘ism’- she liked collecting money but didn’t like writing checks. So, we and many faithful others formed this board to do the impossible and raise funds to build the school. Alelia followed every hair brained scheme I came up with and cheered me on along the way. Her favourite story is when we traveled down Shirley Street at 7 a.m. in the morning, in the dark, just past the intersection of Mackey Street, we were on our way to yet another yard sale and a table fell off the back of my truck. Without skipping a beat, I put the truck in park, placed the table on the truck and continued driving. She was
aghast, as she knew I was 8 weeks pregnant at the time. The fourth ‘ism’ I learnt was, you don’t need to be in the papers or be on TV to be a celebrity. One Saturday we went shopping for a fundraising event we were planning and literally every where we went, we had young women shouting out, Mrs. Adderley! and giving her the biggest hugs and letting her know how the babies were doing and how they were getting on in life. This entitled us to giveaways and discounts at every turn because her former students were ever present and wanted to express their gratitude for the impact she made in their lives. My fifth and favourite Aleliaism was ‘never take no for an answer’. As president and treasurer we went to Commonwealth Bank on East Bay street to move some funds from the term deposit to the checking account. The banking officer took us in the office and explained that there were some fees we had to pay. Alelia looked at me and said with a smile ‘they have no idea who they are dealing with’. When she was finished telling the banking officer how Commonwealth Bank is a friend of PACE and they give us money every year so there is no point giving us money if you are going to take it back and off she went. The banking officer sheepishly went to the manager to enquire and of course we paid absolutely no bank fees. So, we continued our impossible dream until the Sandals Foundation came along and rescued us and held the big Shaggy concert that had Alelia singing and dancing ‘it wasn’t me’. In 2017 thanks to her untiring support, along with other board members, we opened the building in 2017. Beyond PACE, she injected herself in my life many times inviting herself to family functions, and became a part of my family. When in good health, she came to all of my office functions and if she passed my office and didn’t see my car, she would call me up
and tell me she was going to report me to the boss. For those who don’t know, I own my own company. But the sixth ‘ism’ I will share with you is ‘put your family first’. For many of the years we worked on the PACE building I was living in two countries and when I came in town, we always had a board meeting, after which I might drop her home and we would sip Harvey’s Bristol Cream from a wine glass, because sherry glasses are just too small or we might go for dinner somewhere or just sit and chat. But when I brought my family home for the summer, she would say thanks for letting me know your in town, but I don’t expect to see you during the summer as your family comes first. You may drive by so me and Mr. Adderley can see how much the kids have grown, but I don’t expect you to do more than that. Beyond this, I saw the way she was with her close knit family, all the trips and cruises they went on and how much they enjoyed each other. It was admirable. The seventh and final ‘ism’ is that beauty is all around us. As I look in my garden, I see Alelia in the many plants that she hand selected to enrich my garden. I close by saying that to me, she was at once a mother, a sister and a friend. She was a mother when she told me what I needed to hear and not what I wanted to hear, a sister, when I needed to talk through a challenge and a friend when she let me just talk, when she knew, and I knew, I wasn’t making any sense, but just needed to vent. Today is bitter sweet, but life has meaning because it has a beginning and an end. Her death serves as a reminder not to take people, life or the very air we breathe for granted. I will miss Alelia everyday and will cherish the pain of the loss that I feel because she passed my way and made a lasting impact on my life. May she rest in eternal peace and rise in glory
Acknowledgements
The family of the late Alelia Adderley wish to express our heartfelt thanks and gratitude to our many relatives, neighbors and friends, church members who have extended sympathy, provided assuring words, prayed, visited, telephoned, and every other act of kindness during our time of bereavement. These acts of love have made the journey easier to travel. In lieu of flowers, and in memory of the late Alelia Adderley, donations can be made to the Anglican Church of Epiphany building fund. May God continue to bless you.
Pallbearers
Shane Freedman Anwar Elliott Gerrard Sawyer
Miles Parker David Gibson Amir Sultani
Honorary Pallbearers
Arlington Miller Earl Miller Desean Moss Chaz Miller
Nathaniel Adderley Nathan Adderley Noah Adderley Cameron Miller
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