Pall-bearers taking the casket with the body of Andrew Haynes out of the Sanguinetti New Testament Church of God, on its way to the church cemetery for burial. - George Henry photos

Mourners getting a last look at the deceased.

Andrew Haynes was numbered among the less fortunate in the community of Sanguinetti in Clarendon for decades. As he aged, life for him became very difficult, even though members of the Sanguinetti New Testament Church of God, members of the political directorate in north west Clarendon and other persons assisted him in many ways.

When his health deteriorated badly more than four months ago, a decision was made to place him at the Denbigh Infirmary so better attention could be given to him as it related to health care. He spent over three months at the institution, but despite the best efforts; he passed away on October 22.

Well known in Sanguinetti and adjoining communities, especially by members of the People's National Party, Haynes was born on December 25, 1922. He was well loved and respected as a man who tried his best to be independent while he was enjoying good health.

He was given a wonderful thanksgiving service at the Sanguinetti New Testament Church of God on Thursday November 7, which was attended by scores of mourners headed by Member of Parliament Richard Azan.

Tribute after tribute spelt out the quality of the man described as small in stature, but who was big in heart.

In his opening remarks, moderator of the service Deacon Glendon McDonald shared that Haynes was a lively man who loved to dance. He described him as a faithful church member who, despite ill health, was always at Sunday school and divine service even before many healthy persons.

"Despite his ailments he was a good praying church member who was very dedicated. He always had an offering to give; and if he did not have any money he would beg it just to give an offering," said McDonald.

In his tribute Member of Parliament Richard Azan said Haynes was blessed with long life. He expressed joy at him being buried at the Sanguinetti New Testament Church cemetery and thanked the church leadership for the opportunity.

"Andrew loved the Sanguinetti New Testament Church just like how he loved the PNP. Many unfortunate persons like Andrew are still in this community and they need assistance. I am calling on the leaders of the churches in this area to do whatever is possible to help them. If members buy one less phone card and a few more tins of canned food they will get help. May Andrew walk good, and I hope he continues to blow the trumpet for the PNP," noted Azan.

Councillor Trevor Gordon of the Spalding Division in his tribute thanked all who took care of the Andrew while he was experiencing poor health. He expressed pleasure at the way the church and community members rallied around to have him buried in style, despite his status.

"I am calling on those who still have parents and grandparents who are up in age, to take the best care of them. Do whatever you can for them while they are alive," begged Gordon.

Deaconess Nellie Brown, church sister of Haynes endorsed all that was said by those who brought tribute. She too shared that he was a faithful worshipper who would even brave heavy showers to attend church services. She said he was an avid Sunday school member who would not leave church until divine service was through, even when he was hardly able to walk. According to her, Haynes was a man from whom many could learn a few things.

Althea Robertson, Andrew's neighbour said he was an independent individual who worked hard at planting crops and cutting his yard. She said he was a good neighbour who liked her dearly.

"He could be heard praying before he went to his bed and when he woke up every morning. He lived a full life and all should give God thanks for him," shared Robertson.

He was eulogised by Mrs. Ivy Morris as a cheerful, friendly, jovial and loving person to everyone. She said he was especially friendly to children and would make fun of them. Morris, who is clerk at the Sanguinetti New Testament Church, said he was a member for over 35 years and that he had an excellent record of attendance.

Andrew Haynes, who was the son of Addilade and Johnny Haynes of Breadfruit Tree, White Shop, Clarendon, received his early education at the Ritchies Elementary School in the parish, before he ventured into cane cutting and the planting of crops for himself.

Haynes has left behind his church family, friends and community members to cherish his memory. His body was interred in the church cemetery following the service, where Reverend Dr. Roy Owens delivered the sermon.