GEORGE HENRY, STAR Writer

The Mile Gully New Testament Church of God in Manchester was packed to capacity on Saturday, December 27, as dozens of mourners turned out to pay their last respects to the late Patrick Eden Glanville of that Manchester community, at his thanksgiving service.

Glanville, affectionately called 'Nick Nock' or 'Skilly', passed away on December 6 and from all indications, he will be sadly missed by many.

Cathay Palmer, who knew him for more than 35 years, while paying tribute said Glanville was a man of music. She disclosed that he loved to play music 24/7 and this could be heard whenever persons went to his house. She noted that her children and Glanville were like blood relatives.

"He was a very cool and quiet neighbour and a good community man, who was law abiding. He never gave the police in Mile Gully any reason to arrest him," said Palmer.

Palmer added that Glanville was a caring man who loved children with a passion, he was a good steward, was jovial yet shy, loved sports and was never a mischief-maker.

Anthony Watson, a community resident, while doing the remembrance said that he gave God thanks for Glanville's life. He noted that he was an avid sportsman, who represented Mile Gully with excellence in football and cricket. In fact, Watson noted that Glanville was a very skillful football player - the most skillful ever produced in Mile Gully.

"He was a self-taught, gifted footballer. He was never known as an idler. He was either at home doing his work or at the Mile Gully Community Centre playing sports. He was a private individual who was at times quiet but hilarious, and he was one of the most respectful man who always abided by the rules of the sports club," he recalled.

Glanville's sister, Simone, while reading his eulogy, described him as a special brother, who was very understanding, and someone who had some very special qualities. She noted that he was a skillful cabinet maker.

Fun-loving

Like others who paid tribute to Glanville, Simone described him as a jovial individual who knew how to make really funny jokes. He was said to be very respectful and would never meet others and passed without saying good morning or good evening, depending on the time of day.

She shared that her late brother loved to consume cashew and peanuts; and before he died a package of his favourite nuts was on its way for him. She said he was known for his culinary skills, especially in the cooking of rice and peas, and the mixing of drinks.

She disclosed that the late talented footballer loved his favourite football team Brazil with a passion, and when that team did not do so well in the last World Cup he was most disappointed.

"He had an infectious smile. He loved all his friends. His memory will be cherished. A beautiful soul has left his family and friends," said Simone Glanville.

Delivering the sermon, Evangelist B. Murray reminded mourners that man was created from the ground and to the ground shall we return. He noted that man is just dust; and added that man is like flowers, because in the morning he is fresh and blooming, and by evening he withers away. He also reminded that the breath man breathe is only lent to him by God for a while.

The late Patrick Glanville has left behind to cherish his memory his parents Selvyn and Hermin, two sisters, three brothers, nieces, nephews and a host of other relatives and special friends. Following the service, his body was laid to rest in his family plot at Ballynure in Manchester.

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