Marcia Hayles places a wreath on the grave of her father Neville Rowe after the thanksgiving service.

Reverend Gary Harriott (centre, standing), saying the final words after the body of Neville Rowe was lowered in its grave at the Pike United Church Cemetery. Standing beside Reverend Harriott is Reverend Selvin Grey. - George Henry photos

It is always encouraging whenever family members of a deceased hear wonderful words being said about him or her at their thanksgiving service.

Well, the relatives of the late Neville 'Gubby' Rowe were and should be pleased on hearing the good things that were said at his funeral on Saturday July 6, 2013, at the Pike United Church in Manchester.

In front of a fair-sized crowd of mourners who turned out to pay their last respects to a well-loved man, those who brought tribute said almost the same things about 'Gubby'.

most special

His daughter Althea Hayles, described her father as a most special man who was always neat in attire, kind, patient and altogether a wonderful and blessed man. She said her father was never the one to beat her and her siblings; and although he was a disciplinarian his main act of punishment for his children was a severe squeeze until it pained.

Althea said her father could have been easily described as a 'jack of all trades'. The late Neville Rowe was known as a farmer, businessman, painter and a repairer of small appliances including radios. He was also known as a father who took great care of his home whenever his wife Evadney was not around.

"He was a great cook who had an infectious smile. He was a die-hard Jamaican. He was dear to me; and he taught me all I needed to know. He will always be in my heart," said Althea.

She asked all those who have fathers who are still alive to cherish them, especially the good fathers like the one she had.

Delivering the eulogy, Dr Elvris Hewitt-Buckle, told the congregation that the late 76-year-old Rowe, who was born on December 23, 1936, and who passed away on June 14, was the first of eight children for Vincent and Isadora Rowe.

Hewitt-Buckle said Rowe was a man who made sure that his children worked, and insisted that they attended church on a regular basis. She said the late father ensured that all his children respected everyone.

She noted that the late member of the Pike United Church was a very hard-working man who loved animals, especially dogs and donkeys.

"He gave no one any trouble, he was very friendly and he died peacefully. He loved his brother Kenneth and he had a wonderful smile," said Dr Hewitt-Buckle.

valley moments

Delivering the homily, Reverend Gary Harriott endorsed what Hewitt-Buckle said of Rowe and his fatherhood. Harriott said he was a good father who was always there for his children. Harriott encouraged all men to be there for their children at all times, so that when they (men) need them (children) they will be there for them, especially when they are in their last days and are near their 'valley moments' or death.

Rowe, who received his early education at the Pike All-Age School before he ventured into farming, has left behind to cherish his memories, widow Evadney, children, grand- children, sisters, brothers, nieces, nephews, other relatives and numerous friends.

Following the thanksgiving service his body was interred in the Pike United Church Cemetery.

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