The Original Memory Book for the late Mariletta Butler by Print Works at The Huyler Group

RN, RM

A CELEBRATION OF LIFE FOR THE LATE

BORN: April 5th, 1935

DIED: July 16th, 2026

AGED: 91 Years

SERVICE HELD AT: Rehoboth Ministries Inc.

Prince Charles Drive Nassau, The Bahamas.

Wednesday 29th July 2026 at 11:00 AM

OFFICIATING:

The Hon. Rev. Dr. Reuben Rahming

ASSISTED BY: Rev. Fr. D’Angelo Bowe

Earlyn Baillou

INTERMENT:

St. Agnes Cemetery Nassau Street, Nassau, The Bahamas.

ORGANIST:

Mr. Drexel Munroe

RN, RM

Mariletta Butler (nee) Rahming was born on 5th April 1935 to Daniel and Wilhelmina Rahming in the heart of the picturesque Fox Hill community. Mariletta was the 11th of 12 children and was fondly called Marie from a young age.

Marie had a colourful childhood where she learned how to care and tend to the family’s animals, prepare meals, clean, cook and mend clothes, but her absolute favourite past time was playing outdoors with her siblings and other youngsters in the community. Marie was very adventurous. While her female siblings leaned more toward the traditional ways at that time, she just wanted to explore the world, taking bike rides from Fox Hill to “Town” to wanting to learn more about her heritage. She along with her siblings and other family members embarked on a journey to Panama to visit their Mama’s birthplace. A trip that they would never forget.

Marie’s love for people and her nurturing spirit led her, after completing her general education at Sandilands Primary School and attending evening classes, to pursue her one true passion—nursing. She dedicated more than 40 years to the profession she loved, serving with compassion, skill, and unwavering commitment. Through her hard work and dedication, she rose to the rank of Nursing Officer before retiring in 1995, leaving behind a legacy of care, excellence, and service to others.

Education and self-fulfillment were of great importance to Marie. After completing her General Nursing training at the then School of Nursing, and with the guidance and support of the Ministry of Health and Princess Margaret Hospital, she enrolled at the then College of The Bahamas, becoming one of the first nurses to earn a Diploma in Nursing.

Marie was a lifelong learner who continually sought to refine and expand her knowledge. In pursuit of excellence, she went on to qualify as a Registered Midwife. Countless mothers can attest to the diligence, compassion, patience, and gentle care she demonstrated while bringing their children safely into the world. For many families, Marie’s reassuring presence during one of life’s most precious moments left an enduring and cherished memory.

Special Care, now NICU became one of Marie’s passions, she would deliver superb care and attention with precession to critically ill babies and nurse them to full health as she was also trained in this area. She possessed a gift, a genuine gift of compassion. She would not leave a patient to labour on their own, her calming words and gentle touch were the balm and relief that helped many mothers in and through their most vulnerable state. Marie was truly a worker for the Lord, He used her to bring help and healing to the sick, and she never failed

in that assignment for her Lord. She was the neighbourhood’s honorary “Doctor”.

Marie met and fell in love with James “Jimmy” Butler during her nursing school days. They wedded in 1959 and produced four industrious, beautiful, talented and loving children: Marla, Bryan, Kevin and Denise. Marie and Jimmy were God fearing Christian parents who raised not only their offspring but nurtured a multitude of “Her” children who would come from near and far for a plate of food, a shoulder to cry on, a soft whisper of prayer, a bed to lie in, a Panadol…. she had just what everyone needed just at the right time. She never turned anyone away. She became Grammy upon her retirement and was honoured to chauffeur, baby/children sit, and cook for all who descended upon her kitchen after school. Times were had in Grammy’s kitchen and TV room, much to Dadda’s chagrin. However, Jimmy and Marie’s home remained that sanctuary; “the hub”. Their home was and still is considered a sweet haven, always bustling with life and laughter.

challenges she continued enjoying time with family and friends, exercising and crafting with her senior’s group and enjoying outings with the retired Nurses Association.

Marie was extraordinary, in that she captured the hearts of all who were privileged to have met her. She enjoyed a life well lived and left no stone unturned. She balanced home, work, community and church with what appeared to be so much grace. She was able to communicate with all walks of life. She travelled extensively around the world touching every continent except Antartica; she didn’t like the cold.

We are comforted in knowing that as she left this earth, she was surrounded by family and close friends, and it showed as she had a smile on her face. Her favourite saying “I’m right here in the arms of the Good Lord” has finally been accomplished.

Take your well deserved rest!

We will certainly miss Lady Marie, Grammy, Ms. Marie, Queen, Mummy, but we remain confident that we will meet again on that bright and jubilant resurrection morning.

Marie began experiencing health challenges two years ago, but she fought, always trying to keep a smile on her face. Despite her

Marie loved her church, family, and friends, and they loved her in return. Caring for others was her passion.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband, James “Jimmy” Butler and son, Kevin James Butler, and will be fondly remembered by:

Son: Bryan Kent Butler; Daughters: Marla Machelle Clemmons and D. Denise Butler Brown;

Daughters in law: Claudine Butler and Lisa Butler; Son in law: David Brown; Grand Children: Kimbalee, Bakari, and Niko Clemmons

Bria, Brinae and Nyssa Butler, Kevin Jr. (Marissa), Logan and Kaden Butler, Daja (Kenton) McKenzie, Dalia and Danielle Brown;

Great Grand Children: Kevin James Butler III & Khai Clemmons;

Sister: Elvina Connell; Sisters in law: Dorothy Godet, Eleanor Butler, Jennie Edwards, Eloise Johnson, Elaine Butler and Alfreda Butler; Brothers in law: Roosevelt Godet and Ulric Johnson; Nephews: Rev. Dr. Philip Rahming, Theodore, Patrick, Clyde, Syd, Franklyn, Daniel, Ryan, Troy, Jeffrey & Rudolph Rahming, Hartley Morrison, Don & Dennis Knowles, Mark Johnson, Van Benson, Floyd Samuels, Julian, Godfrey, Clement, Douglas, Alvin, & Wendel Edgecombe, Don, Tony & Lester Connell, Perry Pearce, Larry, & Edwin Winder, Carlen, Kenynon, Joey & Khai Jervis, Jeffrey, Anthony & Edwin Thompson;

Nieces: Dora Thompson, Thoi Strachan, Bishop Erma Mackey, Jacqueline Armbrister, Stephanie Taylor, Tracey Musgrove, Joan McKenzie, Gammell Deal, Lynaire Hector, Margaret Munnings, Andrea Williams, Paula Rhodriquez, Theresa Knowles, Norma A. Dean, Deborah Ferguson, Marva Kemp, Franka Stubbs, Deidre Adderley, Lisa & Cleo Stuart, Jewelanne Bethel; Nieces in law: Audrey Tucker, Tonette Kemp, Julie Campbell & Kayla Cartwright, Nerissa Albury, Elizabeth Butler, Mary Munroe, Lisa Hall, Shantell Munroe, Sanchia Godet, Rionda & Vanessa Godet, and Gaynell Bullard; Nephews in law: Perez, Don & Junior Butler, Dion and Tsombie Godet, Richard and Rev. Dr. Stephen Munroe, Wenzel & Terran Nichols, Samuel Kemp; Devoted Dear Lifelong Friends: Gwendolyn Johnson, Yvonne Sherman, Shirley Cooper, Mavis Campbell, Ampusam Symonette, Letisha Curry, Glorian Storr, Constance Comery, Genevieve Scavella, Crystal Murray, Thirza Dean, Celeste Lockhart and Judith Theophilus;

Caregiver & Friend: Salomie Farrington & Family; Predeceased Siblings: Clementina Edgecombe, Leomie Knowles, Violet Johnson, Maria Knowles, Agnes & Arnetta Rahming, Carmel Mortimer, Lennie, Carl, Oswald, Frank Rahming;

Other Relatives And Friends: Seniors on the Move Exercise Group, Retired Nurses Guild, The Stapledon Gardens Community – The Theophilus, Neely, Albury, Adderley,

Scavella, Thompson, Rigby, Farquharson, Brice, Creary and Foulkes Families. Rahming & Brown Families, Pete, Lynette, Peliah & Peyton Rolle, Leslie Ellis-Tynes, Jenoure, & Reckley Families. Clemmons of North Carolina, Patty Fountain & Family, Sonja Roberts & Family, Maude Adams, New York, Mary Wright, New York, Yian Allen and Family, Anthony & Lekeisha Thomas and Family, Justina Ferguson, Alexis Dames and Family, Sophia Swann and Family of Texas, Natalie Roberts of Tampa Florida, Mr. and Mrs. Glen Miller and Family, The Allen, Dillet, Butler, Hanna, Wilson, Bullard, Deveaux, McSweeney, Francis & Roach families, Sheldon & Vito Cartwright, Keile Campbell, Fr. Dwight and Nancy Bowe and Family, Madlyn Frodingham, New York, Wendy Foulkes & Family of North Carolina, Sean Blyden, Barrington Johnson, Colin Thompson and Family, Keith “Spider” Rigby & Family, Jackson Russell, Adrian Hanna and Family, Colin & Angie McFarlane and Family, Isadora Blyden, Andrea Johnson, Jerry Peck of Newport News, VA, Aymara Gomez & Families, Terry McKenzie & Family, Madge Rahming, Pastor Earlyn Balliou, Family of the late Gloria Strachan, Jane Adderley, and family. Drs. Christine Chin, Indira Grimes, Caroline BurnettGarraway, Keith Rivers & Phyllis Darville, Registered Nurses Geanna Munnings & Humes, Minister Hon. Dr. Michael Darville, Rehoboth Ministries Inc., Fr. D’Angelo Bowe & The Church of The Most Holy Trinity, St. Agnes Church Family, PHA Family. Pets: Penny, Nickle & Dime.

Order of service

Moderated by: Pastor Warren Anderson.

Pre-service viewing

Closing and Sealing of the casket

Processional of casket and family | Led by The Rt. Hon. Rev. Dr. Philip A. Rahming (Pastor Emeritus)

Great is Thy Faithfulness (All Stand)

Great is Thy faithfulness,” O God my Father, There is no shadow of turning with Thee; Thou changest not, Thy compassions, they fail not

As Thou hast been Thou forever wilt be.

(Chorus)

Great is Thy faithfulness! Great is Thy faithfulness! Morning by morning new mercies I see;

All I have needed Thy hand hath provided— Great is Thy faithfulness! Lord, unto me!

Summer and winter, and springtime and harvest, Sun, moon and stars in their courses above,

Join with all nature in manifold witness

To Thy great faithfulness, mercy and love.

Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth, Thy own dear presence to cheer and to guide; Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow, Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside!

Opening Sentences | The Hon. Rev. Dr. Reuben L. Rahming

Doxology | Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God Almighty

Opening Prayer / Invocation | The Hon. Rev. Dr. Reuben L. Rahming

Opening Congregational Hymn | Just Over In The Glory Land.

I’ve a home prepared where the saints abide

Just over in the glory land

And I long to be by my Saviour’s side

Just over in the glory land

(Chorus)

Just over in the glory land

I’ll join the happy angel band

Just over in the glory land

There with the mighty host, I’ll stand

Just over in the glory – land

I am on my to those mansions fair, Just over in the glory land

There to sing God’s praise and His glory share

Just over in the glory land

What a joyful thought, that my Lord I’ll see Just over in the glory land

And with kindred saved, there forever be Just over in the glory land

With the blood-washed throng I will shout and sing

Just over in the glory land

Glad hosannas to Christ, the Lord and King’ Just over the glory land

First Scripture Reading | Job 19, vs 25-27 | Niko Clemmons (Grandson)

Musical Selection | Sharmond Smith (Friend of the Family)

Second Scripture Reading | 1Corinthians 15, 50-58 | Dalia Brown (Granddaughter)

Reflections / Condolences | Adrian Hanna (Friend of the Family)

Alderine Rolle (Women’s President, Rehoboth Ministries Inc.)

Solo | Bishop Erma Mackey (niece)

Reflections / Condolences | Retired Nurses Guild

Bishop Carl J Rahming (Pastor Emeritus Of St Paul’s Baptist Church)

Norma Dean (niece)

Dr Michael Darville (Minster of Health)

Obituary | Printed in program and read silently

Second Congregational Hymn | City of Gold

There’s a city of Light, where there cometh no night; ‘Tis a city of beauty untold; All my treasures are there and its beauty I’ll share, When I get to that city of gold.

(Chorus)

When I leave all trouble and care, I will say good morning up there; I will have great gladness untold, When I get to that city of gold

There’s no sorrow up there in that city so fair And no sickness can enter I’m told; Shadows all will have flown, I will meet friend I’ve known When we get to that city of gold.

Won’t you go there with me to the home of the free, Would you see heaven’s beauty unfold? If you will come along, we will sing heaven’s song When we get to that City of gold.

Eulogy | Pastor Earlyn Baillou (New Rehoboth Ministries International)

Prayer For The Family | Rev. Fr. D’Angelo Bowe

Recessional | Led by

The Rt. Hon. Rev. Dr. Philip A. Rahming (Pastor Emeritus)

It Is Finished.

There’s a line that is drawn through the ages

On that line stands an old rugged cross

On that cross, a battle is raging

To gain a man’s soul or it’s loss

(Chorus)

It is finished, the battle is over; it is finished, there’ll be no more war

It is finished, the end of the conflict; it is finished and Jesus is Lord

On one side, march the forces of evil

All the demons, all the devils of hell

On the other, the angels of glory

And they meet on Golgotha’s hill

The earth shakes with the force of the conflict

And the sun refuses to shine

For there hangs God’s son, in the balance

And then through the darkness he cries

Yet in my heart, the battle was still raging

Not all prisoners of war had come home

These were battlefields of my own making

I didn’t know that the war had been won

Oh, but then I heard the king of the ages

Had fought all the battles for me

And that victory was mine for the claiming

And now praise his name, I am free.

A Bond that Time Can Never Break

Sisters by birth, friends by choice, together in faith, together in love forever in heart.

Absent from the body, present with the Lord. 2 Corinthians 5:8

You may be gone from my sight, but never from my heart. Rest now, my dear sister, until we meet again.

My beloved sister, Marie—our dear Mariletta, Today, my heart is filled with both sadness and gratitude. Sadness because I must say goodbye to my precious sister, and gratitude because God blessed me with 92 wonderful years of loving her.

From the time we were little girls, we shared a bond that only sisters can understand. We grew up together, laughed together, cried together, and stood by one another through every season of life. No matter what life brought our way, our love for each other never changed. Marie was one of the most caring and loving people I have ever known. She had a gentle heart and always made time for those she loved. We looked forward to

our conversations, whether every Sunday or every other day. We talked about everything—our families, our memories, our daily lives—but most importantly, we shared the Word of God. Those moments together strengthened both our faith and our friendship, and they will forever remain in my heart.

As many of you know, I have always enjoyed sewing and altering clothes. One of my greatest joys was helping Marie with her dresses and blouses. I could always count on seeing her come through my door carrying a bag full of clothes that needed a little fixing. Then, after they were finished, I looked forward to taking them back to her. Those simple moments became treasured memories that I will miss more than words can express.

One memory that still makes me smile happened just last month. I was altering a blouse for Marie, and as she tried it on, we realized it was just a little too snug. Taking it off turned into quite a challenge! We had to call someone to help us, and before long we were laughing so hard together. That laughter is a gift I will carry with me always. I thank God that one of our last memories together was filled with such joy.

Today, I am the last of my brothers and sisters. That is a lonely place to stand, and I will miss Marie more than I can say. There will be an empty place in my heart and an empty place at my door where I always expected to see her coming with her bag of clothes and her beautiful smile. But even in my sorrow, I have hope. Marie loved the Lord, and I believe that she is now resting peacefully in His presence. The separation we feel today is only for a little while. Because of God’s promise, I believe we will see one another again. Marie, thank you for being such a wonderful sister, faithful friend, and blessing in my life. Thank you for your love, your kindness, your laughter, and the countless memories we shared. You will always live in my heart.

You may be gone from my sight, but never from my heart. Thank you for walking through this life with me. Sleep peacefully, my dear sister. Give my love to all those who have gone before us; one day I will see all of you again, and what a joyful reunion that will be.

I love you, my dear sister, and I always will.

Elvina Connell

An Expression of Love to MY BELOVED MUMMY

1 Corinthians 13: V:4-8 states: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonour others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.”

Mummy you were the “epitome” of Love.

To the world, you were a loving person who gave of herself wholeheartledy but to me, you were “The World”, “My Mummy”. No words can truly capture the depth of my love or the magnitude of your absence going forward. Your absence is going to hit me the hardest when I call the house and you are not there to answer and ask, “where’s Lil Man”. (Khai)

My children did not physically grow up around you on a daily basis, but they felt and had your love. You made sure of that by calling every Sunday afternoon talking with each one individually. That’s Love!

Growing up, you and daddy were my first home, my safest place, and my greatest supporters. You had an extraordinary way of making everything better with your gentle smile. The unconditional love you gave so freely without ever asking for anything in return. You taught me, Bryan, Kevin and

Denise how to be kind, and how to navigate this world with love, grace and respect. The Butler’s House always had “an open door” policy to all. But most importantly, you taught me what it means to love unconditionally. It was quite evident with the devotion you displayed in your professional career as a Nurse.

In my eyesight, you were the most devoted and dedicated nurse. The compassion and care you showed every single patient at Princess Margaret Hospital went above and beyond.

My siblings and I know firsthand. We spent numerous days, evenings and nights with daddy sitting in the parking lot of the hospital waiting for you to end your shift. You never left until you felt within your heart it was time to leave. This level of care also spilled out into the family and the neighbourhood. Everyone called on “Marie” the nurse to fix or take care of whatever the situation.

I take comfort in the beautiful memories we shared and the legacy you are leaving behind. You may be gone from my sight, but you will never, ever be gone from my heart. Thank you Mummy, for everything you were, everything you did, and everything you poured into my life. I am so incredibly proud to be your daughter.

Thank you for raising me; I pray I have made you proud. Rest in Heavenly Peace, my beautiful mummy. I will love you forever, and I will carry your love with me for the rest of my days.

FOREVER IN THE HANDS OF THE GOOD LORD.

I Love You, Marla Machelle

“She was beautiful, but not like those girls in the magazines. She was beautiful, for the way she thought. She was beautiful, for the sparkle in her eyes when she talked about something she loved. She was beautiful, for her ability to make other people smile, even if she was sad. No, she wasn’t beautiful for something as temporary as her looks. She was beautiful, deep down to her soul. She is beautiful.”

My Lady

God granted me an angel, a guardian angel, a protector assigned to watch over me, her name was Mariletta (Marie) to many, but for me, she was “Ms. Lady”.

I thank God for allowing me the privilege, particularly over the past two years to care for My Lady as she cared for me. In those two years I got to know the real Marie, not as a mother/ child relationship, but on a deeper level. I am now able to clearly understand one of her favourite sayings “you’ll see one day”. Ms. Lady was equipping me to be stronger, wiser, and more resilient. She taught me to have strength to press on even at my weakest time, courage to speak and stand up when no one else did, to dance and sing just for the fun of it, to praise the Almighty God when all hope seemed to be lost, to rest in “the arms of the good Lord” when there were no other arms in sight, to love unconditionally. I thank

God that I had the opportunity to say my goodbye; to show my appreciation for the sacrifices she made for me, and to make my peace for whatever wrong I may have done. I am comforted in knowing that My Lady lived with no regrets, loved without boundaries, and gave of herself unselfishly and I am grateful for the memories that will always remain in my heart; the midnight talks, the trips to Fox Hill, vacations, watching Family Feud and admiring Steve and his suits.

I already miss hearing her call me Niecy, like no one else did. Even on her dying bed, Niecy was one of her last words.

I was privileged to call her my Mother. Forever in my heart.

Niecy

Amother-in-law is often described by her title, but she was so much more than that. She became a second mother, a trusted friend, a source of encouragement, and a constant presence whose love reached far beyond family ties. She welcomed me with open arms, made me feel at home, and showed me what unconditional love truly looks like.

Her heart was generous, always putting others before herself. Whether through a comforting word, a warm embrace, a shared meal, or a simple act of kindness, she had a remarkable way of making everyone feel valued and loved. Her strength carried her family through life’ s challenges, and her faith, compassion, and unwavering devotion left a lasting imprint on all who knew her.

She was the heart of her family—a woman whose greatest joy was seeing those she loved happy and together. Her legacy lives on in the values she instilled, the traditions she created, and the countless memories that will forever bring smiles through tears. We constantly teased her about the boys being her favourite yet the girls knew they were loved beyond measure.

Though our hearts are heavy with sorrow, we are also filled with gratitude. We are grateful for the privilege of having known her, for the love she freely gave, and for the example she set. Her life reminds us that true greatness is found not in wealth or recognition, but in the love we share and the lives we touch.

While we will deeply miss her gentle spirit, her laughter, her wisdom, and her comforting presence, we take comfort in knowing that love does not end with death. It lives on in every lesson she taught, every life she shaped, and every heart she touched.

When asked “how you were doing”, little did we know that one day, your response to that question would be of great comfort to us; “right here in the hands of the Good Lord”. If we ever needed a testimony of how we should live our lives, it would be that we should live our lives in the hands of the Good Lord.

To our beloved Mommy, Grammy, Aunt Mari, Mari and Nurse, thank you for loving us so completely. Thank you for your sacrifices, your prayers, your patience, and your unwavering support. Your memory will forever be a blessing, and your love will continue to guide us.

Rest peacefully, knowing you were deeply loved, are profoundly missed, and will never be forgotten.

Your daughter, Lisa

“In The Hands Of The Good Lord”

Today, we celebrate the beautiful life of Mrs. Mariletta Butler, a woman whose love filled every room she entered and whose memory will forever live in our hearts. Our Grammy was the definition of selflessness. She loved unconditionally, gave without hesitation, and always put the needs of others before her own. She had a heart of gold and a faith that never wavered. Her home was a place of comfort, laughter, and love, where everyone felt welcomed, accepted, and cared for. Some of my most cherished memories are our Thursday sleepovers. Whenever Salomie or Aunty Neicey couldn’t spend the night, it would be just the two of us. We’d stay up until midnight watching the same Steve Harvey marathons our family seemed to have on every day, only to wake up at 7:00 the next morning and do it all over again. Those simple moments became some of the greatest memories of my life. She always called me “Doc” or “Nurse.”

Although I’m neither, that’s who I was in her eyes. It was her special nickname for me, and every time she said it, I felt loved. It became a reminder of the care, encouragement, and unconditional love she poured into each of us as we grew up. I’ll never forget our early Friday mornings sitting on the porch in our pajamas before the day really began. There’s a saying that your grandparents’ house prepares you for the heat, and theirs certainly did. Before air conditioning became part of the home, all of us grandchildren spent our summers there. We’d be dripping with sweat as we ran around laughing and making memories while Grammy made tuna cakes in the kitchen and Dada was outside being “Bob the Builder.” At the time, we didn’t realize those ordinary days would one day become some of our most treasured memories. It was never the heat that made those summers unforgettable, it was simply being together in their home.

Our Grammy was our comfort, our safe place, our biggest supporter, and one of God’s greatest examples of what it means to love others. She showed us that love wasn’t just something you said, it was something you lived every single day. Although you are no longer here with us, I find peace in knowing that the legacy you leave behind will continue to live on through all of us. One phrase you said more than any other, and one that has stayed with each of us, was, “In the hands of the Good Lord.” As we grieve your absence, we hold tightly to those words. They remind us that you are exactly where you always trusted yourself to be, in the hands of the Good Lord. Grammy, I love you more than words could ever express.

Thank you for every hug, every prayer, every laugh, every lesson, and every memory. Heaven has truly gained the most beautiful angel, and although our hearts are broken, we are forever grateful that God blessed us with you. Until we meet again, I love you always.

Love, Nyssa

A TRIBUTE TO MY GRAMMY

Grammy, this is me, Bria! Those words may seem unusual to begin with, but anyone who knew my Grammy would understand. Every time we spoke, she would ask, “Who is this talking to me?” It wasn’t because she didn’t know us; it was because she was blessed with so many grandchildren that she always wanted to be sure who she was speaking with. That simple question has become one of my most treasured memories. To me, Grammy was the true definition of unconditional love. She was selfless, compassionate, nurturing, and endlessly kind. She had a way of making everyone she met feel welcomed, valued, and loved. Her gentle spirit and generous heart touched countless lives, and her legacy will live on through the many people she cared for. One of

my favorite memories was sharing laughter with her. She would always say, “Bria, you and this laugh. I could put you in a room with all the grandchildren, close the door, and once you laughed, I’d know exactly which one was you.” As soon as she said it, I would laugh even harder, and she would smile and say, “See what I mean?” Before long, we would both be laughing uncontrollably. That beautiful smile and joyful laughter are memories I will cherish forever. I’ll also remember her love for Infamous Sawyer Boy and her beloveth Steve Harvey, both of whom could always bring a smile to her face. Growing up, Grammy’s home was a place of comfort, love, and security.

We spent many afternoons after school and countless summers there. She always made sure we were fed, cared for, and surrounded by love. And before anyone sat at her dinner table, washing our hands was not optional! Looking back, those little moments remind me how deeply she cared for each of us.

#NurseB!

One of the memories I will treasure most was my last visit with her. After church, the Sunday before she fell ill. I stopped by to see her. She was sitting in her usual chair by the front door. She looked me up and down and said, “You need to give me some of this long hair & that’s a pretty dress, but it’s too short. It needs a few more inches.” Then she reached over and gently pulled my dress down. I laughed and replied, “Grammy, you want to be sexy like me.” She smiled and said, “Oh, Bria, what am I going to do with you?”. We both laughed, never knowing that this would become one of our final memories together.

Today, I hold on to every laugh, every conversation, every hug, and every lesson. While our hearts grieve your absence, we find comfort in knowing that you are finally at peace, “Resting Safely in the Hands of the Good Lordt”. Thank you, Grammy, for loving us so completely and teaching us what kindness, strength, and unconditional love truly look like. Your legacy will continue to live on in each of us.

Take your Beauty Rest, Grammy

Bria Butler

My Ms. Mary

“Ayyy” “Well where you going?”

“You eat for the day?”

“Go wash your hands.”

“Hold on, I’m cominggg.”

“This a pretty dress, eh?”

“Shh, don’t tell Dada now.”

“How ya mean?”

“Alright, baby doll.”

“Go check right in the baker”

“Come read this number off for me.”

“You wanna come rub my back?”

“I’m right here in the hands of the good Lord.”

“I love you.”

Just a few of the many words my Ms. Mary would say. A million laughs, hugs, kisses, sweet treats, car rides, and long-distance calls later, and I still wish we had more. I am so grateful that I had the privilege of experiencing you, of being loved by you, inspired by you, encouraged by you, and, I hope, making you proud.

I can still hear your contagious laugh. I can still smell your okra and rice and baked chicken on the stove and remember I can vividly remember Daja and Bria having a “little taste” while you stepped out for church. I can still hear you chatting on the phone

with your friends, sneaking to watch Maury while Dada was outside on the roof or tending to the garden.

I can still remember after school shenanigans with Logan, Kaden, Peliah, Peyton, Danielle and myself running out of breath and screaming up the road to tell you how we’ve all just gotten into a car accident and how we need special tending to. And you shaking your head with no clue as to why we were acting the absolute fool, telling us all to calm down.

I can still hear you reminding us to wash our hands before touching anything in the house and telling us to leave our shoes by the door to be polished. I can still hear you calling us all to the kitchen table for supper. I can still picture you making your way to the front door, calling out, “I’m coming!” after we’d already been waiting there for what felt like fifteen minutes. I can still hear you asking me how to use the microwave for the hundredth time. Oh, how I wish you could have asked me a hundred more. I can still hear you asking why I never liked watching Steve Harvey and trying to convince me it was the best show you’d ever seen.

And I can still remember the last time we parted ways, sharing our usual hug and kiss goodbye. I will always cherish our weekly Sunday long-distance calls, when you’d ask me about school and whether I was making friends. I’ll cherish our little cat naps out front, our chuckles over your old stories, and the running joke among all the grands about who stepped on the “you know what.” God blessed you with 91 beautiful years of life—years spent blessing everyone around you.

You brought four wonderful children into this world, each carrying your kindness forward, and you left your mark as the very best grandmother anyone could ask for. For decades, you cared for others, showed kindness so effortlessly, shared your wisdom, and spread love everywhere you went. You showed us what compassion, respect, generosity, and grace truly look like. And, if I may add, you had an incredible sense of humor. I just want to say thank you—for simply being you. Thank you for opening your heart to your family. Thank you for making your house feel like home. Thank you for every kind word, every delicious meal, every memory we’ve shared. Thank you for always being on time, for every conversation, for those little white envelopes, for every warm hug and kiss, for your unwavering support and encouragement. Most of all, thank you for being my Ms. Mary. This isn’t goodbye, and I know in my heart you will always be with us, watching, praying and help guiding us all, blessing us from the skies.

Numbers 6:24-26, Dalia

“Hey Babydoll”

I want to start this off by saying thank you for being yourself always. July 16th, 2026, is a day in my mind I just couldn’t see coming, because in my mind you would live forever.

So, let’s start when Kevin, Bria and I were younger, your house was our playground. First thing “y’all go wash your hands” followed by “yes Gram my” as we already knew the rule. This was her only rule. Once that was tak en care of, we had the house for ourselves. Or so we thought. Our Grandad James Earl Butler, (Dada), was the chief who laid down every rule that she did not give us. But it was ok, because remember, this was and what we still call it ‘Grammy’s house’. She was always taking the blame for us no matter what we might have gotten ourselves into. Even when Dada threatened to kick us out, we always came back whether it be after school and every summer where she would have our hot meal prepared. After church we couldn’t wait to go by Grammy for her Sunday dinner as we would all have one scoop of rice each and a piece of whatever meat she made. Truly the rice was enough to satisfy us most of the time.

A memory I have I will now cherish forever is when visiting Grammy would sit on the telephone and talk the whole time, I was there. When it was time for me to go, I would let her know that I’m leaving and she would say ‘already’. I would shake my head and say yes Grammy when I was sit ting here all this time you weren’t checking for me and of course, she would famously suck her teeth. I would laugh and say, “see you tomorrow” and she would say “call me when u reach home”.

I will miss calling you and you saying who this is and I would say guess and you would laugh and “say this Daja”.

I will miss you asking me “what you going home to do” I will miss “What you cooking today”

It’s so many things that I will miss but most importantly its memories we now hold and cherish as your laugh was infectious, your heart was pure, and your love was and will never be taken for granted. Thank you for giv ing us all those years my heart is full knowing I will see you again someday.

Until then. I miss you! I Love you!

-Daja

A Walk With Brammby

“Dani, remember when you used to say Brammby?” It was an inevitable conversation that would always arise at any family gathering, despite my significant efforts to deny it.

For years, the term “Brammby” felt like a reminder of my delayed speech, a playful tease that always followed me. But as I’ve grown older, I have come to see it differently. To everyone else, it was not about how I pronounced “Grammy”, but it was the determination of a little girl trying her absolute best to call out to someone she loved.

Before I could say “Grammy” clearly, I had already learned how much I needed you by my side. And when I finally could, it marked just one small milestone in the beautiful 20-year journey we shared together.

Even now, I can still feel the sun scorching us on our backs as you always carried me along with you to walk around the corner to Patty for your hair or down the street to Goddie Beth’s for lunch. Simple memories that never seemed extraordinary then, but today they have become some of my most treasured memories.

You always found a way to keep moving. Whether it was exercise, dancing, or even a brief walk to the porch, you were never one to stay still for long. Your restless spirit filled many late nights, and I can still smile thinking of your little late-night adventures to the front room to watch Family Feud. I never would have imagined that there would come a day when you would stop. There’s a popular proverb that says people cross your path for a reason, a season, or a lifetime. While I wish our walk together had been longer, I know how fortunate I was that ours was one of a lifetime.

Thank you for every conversation, every walk, every laugh, and every lesson. Those moments have helped pave a path that I aspire to continue walking.

So even though our walk was cut short, I am forever blessed to have created such beautifulmemories with you, memories I will cherish for a lifetime.

I will find comfort in knowing our paths intertwined. Every step I take carries a part of you with me. And as long as I continue walking through this life, I know you will be walking beside me.

Until our paths cross again Brammby, Danielle (Dani) B.

LOOKIN’ PRETTY AND SMILIN

To my grandmother, who had the most beautiful spirit.

When I think of the definition of love, to be patient and to be kind, I think of you. Words cannot express how much I love you or how grateful I am for everything you have ever done for me. You helped deliver me, and they said you tagged me in the hospital so that I would not get lost. Looking back, that has been my experience with you my entire life. You were always making sure we stayed on track, were cared for, and never lost our way.

I am so grateful to have had you as my grandmother. You spent your life caring for mothers and their babies as a maternity nurse. Even in your seventies, after working a full night shift at the hospital, you would come home and care for your grandchildren. On those hot summer days, while we ran around the house driving you crazy, you watched over us, fed us, loved us, and somehow still did it all with a smile.

You worked so hard, but you never allowed that hard work to take away your softness. You built a beautiful family with four children and grandchildren who absolutely adored you. You gave so much of yourself to your work and to your family, and you made it all look effortless. If I become even half the woman you were, a woman who worked tirelessly, loved deeply, cared for everyone around her, and still found a reason to smile, I would consider my life a success.

You had the kindest smile and the sweetest laugh I have ever heard. You were always smiling. Whenever I hear the song “Lookin’ Pretty and Smilin’,” I think of you because that is exactly how you always were. You were always looking pretty, smiling, and bringing warmth to everyone around you. Your love was reflected in everything you did.

In your last days, you told me to “have mercy,” and you said that you had found your resting place. No one is more deserving of that rest than you. You spent your life working, caring, loving, and giving to others. I hope you are finally at peace and enjoying the rest you so deeply deserve.

Heaven gained one of the most beautiful souls, but we lost one of the greatest blessings in our lives. I love you so much, Grammy, and I always will.

I know you are with Daddy now. He was your favorite child, and I know the two of you are together again. I hope you are having the biggest jokes, laughing together, and enjoying your well-deserved rest. Give him a hug for me and tell him I said hi.

Until we meet again.

Love always, Logan

“Grammy”

ally admitted it... but she didn’t have to. I simply knew. And I’m sticking with that story!

Jokes aside, being your grandson was one of life’s greatest blessings. Grammy, you were the heart of our family. You had a way of making everyone who walked through your door feel welcome, loved, and important. Your home was a place of comfort, filled with warmth, laughter, wisdom, and the kind of love that only a grandmother can give.

As the youngest grandson and grandchild, I had the best of you and Dada. By the time I came around, you were both mellowed out and I was fortunate to experience your gentleness, your patience, and your unwavering support. You celebrated my victories and always encouraged me through rough times and always reminded me that family would always be there no matter what. You taught us not only through your words but through your life and the person you were.

You showed us that true wealth isn’t measured by what we own but by the love we give. You loved without conditions, forgave without hesitation, and sacrificed without seeking recognition. Those lessons will stay with me for the rest of my life.

Although we gather with heavy hearts, I know you would want us to remember the joy you brought into our lives. You would want us to smile, to laugh, and to continue loving one another just as you loved us.

would make you smile, and I can almost hear you laughing as my siblings especially KJ who is a close second, and cousins roll their eyes.

But the truth is, Grammy, every one of us was your favorite. You had an extraordinary gift of making each grandchild feel like we held a special place in your heart. That was one of your greatest gifts.

The summers spent with you and Dada have helped to shape me into who I am today and who I continue to grow into. I will miss face-timing with you as I finish my college years. But I promise to keep practicing the organ and piano, and every time I play, I will remember you.

We will miss your voice, your laughter, your presence, and the way you made our family feel complete. But your love has been woven into each of our hearts, and because of that, you will never truly leave us. Tell my daddy I miss him, and we will meet up again one day.

Rest peacefully in the hands of the good Lord, Grammy. We love you and thank you.

Your baby and your favourite, Kaden.

MY SWEET “GRAMMY FROM NASSAU!”

That’s what you would always say when you left me a voicemail! Being your first granddaughter is very special to me. I am so blessed to have had memories of love and laughs with you.

Even from many miles away, you were just a phone call away and I never felt the distance. I truly enjoyed the summers and Christmas’ I traveled to spend with you and the family. You made sure I felt at home-asking me what I wanted to eat for breakfast even before I was able to open my eyes and what I wanted for dinner while eating breakfast!

I am so glad that you were able to meet baby Khai. He is still enjoying watching Family Feud just like you. I will make sure he remembers how amazing you were.

Thank you for always being there from the smallest moments to the biggest moments. You made sure to show up!

We will truly miss you and love you always!

Until we meet again. Rest Grammy! Kimbalee and Khai

Dearest Grammy

Even though miles separated us, your love always bridged the distance. We always felt your warmth, prayers, affection and love through every phone call and birthday card.

We will always hold onto the precious times we got to visit you in Nassau and the times you would visit us in Virginia.

We cherished every single moment of those visits and they remain some of our favorite memories, especially the times you all would bring us Coconut Candy.

Thank you for making the distance disappear whenever we were together and for loving us so deeply from afar.

We will miss you and we love you.

Until we meet again, Niko and Bakari

REMEMBERING GRAMMY

Grammy was more than a family friend. She was a constant source of love, support, and kindness. She showed us that family is not defined only by where we come from, but by the people who choose to love, nurture, encourage, and stand beside us through every season of life. The love she gave us made us family in every way that mattered.

Grammy embraced Peliah and Peyton as her own grandchildren, welcoming them into her home every day after school alongside her other grandchildren. In her care, they always felt safe, loved, and included. Grammy ensured that every birthday was celebrated with a cake, thoughtful gifts, and, most importantly, love. She never allowed a milestone to pass unnoticed. Every christening, confirmation, graduation, spring production, or school production, Grammy was there, proudly offering her encouragement and support. She also had a wonderful sense of humor. Her jokes and stories brought so much laughter, and even long after the moment had passed, remembering them would make us laugh all over again. Those joyful memories will remain a precious part of her legacy.

Grammy’s absence is a tremendous loss to our family and will be deeply felt. However, we remain grateful for the many beautiful memories she gave us and for the lasting impact she made on our lives.

Grammy, although you are no longer with us in this physical realm, your love will remain in our hearts forever. We will cherish your memory, carry your kindness with us, and always be thankful that we were blessed to call you Grammy.

We will always love you, and we will never forget you.

To my beloved, darling aunt MY SECOND MOTHER.

You meant so very much to me. From the time that I can remember you were a bright shining star in my life. It was a beautiful spiritual mother / daughter connection that we shared. I am going to miss you so very much and will always cherish and never forget the good memories that we shared especially the Wednesday morning breakfasts, your invaluable advice and your praise of your daughter Denise about how GOOD she treated you.

Aunt Marie, you were truly my Guardian Angel. Your beauty, kindness, strength, and unconditional love have played a very important role in who I am today.

I will continue to honor you by being respectful, kind, loving, helpful, selfless and compassionate just like you were.

Aunt Marie, into Paradise may the angles lead you. At your coming may the Martyrs receive you and lead you into the Holy city Jerusalem where you will forever be in the place that you so fondly spoke of “in the hands of the good Lord.”

Your niece, Norma

In Loving Memory of My Sweet Girl, Aunt Marie

There are some people whose love leaves a lasting imprint on our hearts, and you, Aunt Marie, are one of those special people.

Thank you for all you have done for me. I will forever treasure the countless hours we spent talking, sharing stories about Mama, laughing together, and the phone calls that always brightened my day. Those moments became treasured memories that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

Your kindness, strength, warmth, and unwavering love touched so many lives. You had a beautiful way of making people feel cared for, and your presence was a blessing to everyone who knew you. Though our hearts are heavy with your passing, we are comforted by the love you shared and the legacy you leave behind.

Rest easy, my sexy, sweet Aunty. While I will miss you more than words can express, I find peace in knowing that you are resting safely in the hands of the Good Lord. Until we meet again, I will hold you close in my heart and cherish every memory we made together. I love you always and forever.

Your favourite girl, Deidre

Sunset

(A tribute to aunt marie)

Every morning is an awakening of new hope, dreams and discovery

Not hastening to burst forth but curated with purpose

A time to search out, a time to contemplate

A time to encourage and sow seeds of love

A time to have patience and develop deep faith

At its peak, bare witness to the joys of the past

Grateful for the opportunity to have shared light

Pride in the promise of those that have been touched

It is dusk and your sun has now set.

I will miss our conversation times with your warm laughter, your firm conviction that no one at your exercise class would sit in Butler seat, reports on the accomplishments of your grandchildren, your ever readiness to be on the go, stories of your early nursing days and your beloved Fox Hill family members. You were our family “doctor” and always there for us. We are grateful Aunt Marie rest well in the hands of the good Lord until we meet again.

With much love, your niece Kayla

A Salute to a Nursing Angel: MRS.

MARIELETTA BUTLER

In 1974, I entered the Obstetrics and Gynaecology department as a stranger. It was there that I met an angel of a senior, Mrs. Marieletta Butler. Alongside were Ms. Gloria Strachn and Maulese Walker. This trio who stood out as the traditional extra ordinary seniors, our dear Three Musketeers. These special clinicians took me under their wings. Their kindness, friendship, and guidance created a safe space where I, a junior, could truly learn and grow. The two others had passed but dear Mrs. B. remained in health system by joining the Private Duty Nurses to continue her exemplary service in the Private Ward.

Years later, in 2010, once again I had the distinct privilege of working alongside her as her Area Supervisor there, in Private Services. As her nursing colleague, I watched in admiration despite her age, she still poured care and compassion into every patient she nursed. Though our paths did not cross as often in the later years, my respect and deep appreciation for her gentleness never wavered. She made my life easy by allowing me to be adopted directly into the family of nurses. She gave us a standard of service that we all strove to emulate.

I end my tribute with this borrowed poem

A beautiful poem to honour a nurse who has passed away is “When a Nurse Dies, which reads in part When a nurse dies, the halls remember... not in echoes, but in the hush that settles over a place once warmed by her presence”. This poem captures the impact of a nurse passing on patients, families, and colleagues. Another poem, “The Final Code: A Nurse’s Farewell, says “They say a nurse never truly dies. She simply lays down her stethoscope, wipes the last tear from a Patient’s cheek, and walks quietly into eternity. “Rest on Mrs. B. we love you, but God loves you more. I thank the children Marla, Denise and Briyan for affording me this privilege of sharing my respect, and love in this manner and for sharing their Dear Mom with us in the Health System.

Ampusam Symonette Former Senior Nursing Officer PMH

Tribute To Nurse Butler: A GENTLE SOUL

BY PATRICIA FOUNTAIN

How does one honour and say thanks to a faithful, compassionate woman who was the Bahamian Florence Nightingale to the families, particularly the children of Christie, Eneas and Lancaster Roads ? Cuts, bruises, strange rashes and all, Nurse Butler was that gentle soul who took care and was always just a call away. What do you do? Do as she did. Answer the call.

In her retirement years, I became the one who was a call away. Every Saturday morning a call… “Patty-Anne, the waterman been by you yet?”, “Patty-Anne, your electricity on?” Even down to the last election, “Patty-Anne, Leslie, been by your mummy? Did she get a voucher?”

Besides being a good neighbour, Nurse Butler was also my long-time, beloved client who gave me the name, “PattyAnne” (which Marla only recently learned is not my actual name). We became even closer when I gave birth to my daughter, T. Every morning for six weeks straight, after her night shift at PMH, Nurse Butler came to help me. I am forever grateful for her professional instruction on how to take care of my newborn.

Praise and thanks to God, I was able to return the favor by picking her up for her hair appointments then dropping her home, usually after she had enjoyed a good nap under the dryer. During these appointments, we would talk about what was happening in the country, politics, world news and all while she would sweetly request me to switch my TV from Guardian Radio 96.9 to her CBS game shows. In the intimate setting of the salon, the hairdresser and client share many things - confidences, laughter and of course the true hair color. I have a treasury of good memories, advice and wisdom from Nurse Butler. Though my heart is sorrowful, I am happy Nurse Butler has gone to her Lord in the same way she lived, gently. Indeed, I was blessed by such woman.

Love you, Gentle Soul.

Your PattyAnne a.k.a. Patty Fountain.

A TRIBUTE TO MY BEST FRIEND, MARIE BUTLER

It is with a heavy heart, yet deep gratitude, that I pay tribute to my beloved friend, Marie Butler.

Marie and I shared a friendship that spanned a lifetime. We first met as young student nurses in the Nurse’s training programme at the Princess Margaret Hospital in the 1950s. What began as a friendship during our training years blossomed into a lifelong bond filled with love, laughter, encouragement, and unwavering support.

Marie was a woman of deep faith who loved the Lord with all her heart. Her life reflected His grace, kindness, and compassion in the way she cared for others and in the love she poured into her family and friends. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend whose quiet strength and gentle spirit touched so many lives.

Over the years, we celebrated life’s joys together and stood beside one another through its challenges. I will always treasure the countless memories we created, the conversations we shared, and the enduring friendship that was one of God’s greatest blessings in my life.

While my heart grieves her absence, I find comfort in knowing that Marie’s faith has become sight. She has finished her earthly journey and is now resting peacefully in the presence of her Lord and Saviour. That assurance gives me peace and hope until we meet again.

Marie, thank you for your friendship, your faithfulness, and the beautiful example of a life well lived. You will always hold a special place in my heart, and your memory will remain a treasured blessing.

Rest peacefully, my dear friend, until we meet again. With love always, Your Best Friend, “Gwennie”

Gwendolyn Johnson

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.