pillar of the family and much more
hesitation adopted Alexi and Maya. Throughout my childhood you treated me as your son and I’ve loved you as my own mother. So many great memories to speak of and to appreciate, but one I still laugh at until this day. One Sunday morning my brothers, cousins and I were playing games when we should have been at church. Aunt Winnie comes into the room with the red paddle in her hand and starts off with ‘but wait’... A few seconds later we are all running out the house, church clothes in hand and wondering ‘how did Aunt Winnie get this time cause Aunt Winnie don’t play’. I bring up this memory because not only does it make me smile, but it also reminds me of my late brother Emile. I know now you are both in heaven looking down. Finally, I just want to say I’ve enjoyed you through my whole life and you will be missed terribly. You are one of a kind, someone that God cannot replace. I’m sorry we couldn’t have had more time, but know this, you helped mould what I am today. I love you. Rest in peace, Aunt Winsome. CARLA-LELANI:
Today was supposed to be all ‘gum drops and cotton candy’, but I lost my Aunt Winsome this morning to a heart attack. She is my second mother and I love her and miss her so much. I am devastated you have no idea. I literally am having the most difficulty coming to terms with this. You were supposed to be at my grad school graduation. I lived with her my entire time in Jamaica and she loved me beyond words. I literally have lost a major part of me and I don’t know how to cope. I am the luckiest girl in the world to have had an aunt/mother like you. Tell Emile hello for me. SHANNON:
My heart was broken this Thanksgiving. My second mother passed away this morning. Winnie I’ve been grateful for the care you’ve shown me. The advice and encouraging words you’ve given me. Thank you for loving me as your own. You’ve loved us all and we all loved you. RIP.
When Winsome got married to Carlton, and at the rehearsal we explained to the minister that the line about ‘giving away’ could not be part of the ceremony because we were not giving my sister away to anyone. That we were prepared to accept whomever she brought into the family. So I need to tell you that Carlton has been a wonderful husband and care provider for my sister He has also been a remarkable parental individual to my children. He shared her responsibilities. So thank you, Carl/carlton for loving my sister.
Winsome was larger than life. She was always there, whether in the office or in front of the TV. She had a resounding laugh and always made time for family and friends. It was so difficult coming home and there was no Winnie. We need to cherish our loved ones. As a final note: In 1965 Winsome accepted the Lord as her personal saviour. Rest in Peace my sister.”