Choiseul On The Move: March 2014

Friday, March 14, 2014

CHOISEUL'S CULTURE ICON DEPARTS

Flora "Wawa" Grainger

Flora Grainger affectionately known as 'Wawa' passed on March 12, 2014 at the St Judes Hospital after a long illness. Flora was well known in the cultural/folk circles for her singing prowess. She was called by many as 'The Queen of Culture' of Choiseul. She won Culture Person for Choiseul in 2000 and 2006.

She was the recepient of my plaques for her contribution to the Arts - The Choiseul Development Foundation honoured her for her Outstanding Contribution in the Development of Culture in the district. the Folk Research Centre recognized her as a National Cultural Hero. The Choiseul La Rose Group #2 awarded her a plaque for 32 years of Outstanding Committment and Dedication to the La Rose Community.

La Rose Group #2 Plaque

It is regrettable that many of 'Wawa's' songs could not be on a cd. Glen Albert, who was instrumental in getting Wowo's music on cd, tried his best to do a similar project with Flora but circumstances did not permit. What a pity!

She leaves behind one daughter and two sons as well as her husband and grand children.

The funeral ceremony and burial is dated for the first week in April.

Flora Grainger will truly be missed.

Folk Research CentrePlaque

Choiseul Foundation Plaque

REST IN PERFECT PEACE

Monday, March 10, 2014

Another Icon Laid To Rest

Nelson "Galvaro" Nicholas also affectionately known as Solom was laid to rest after what many considered will be the" Funeral Service of the Year." The small Rivere Doree Church was packed to capacity, with over three times the congregation inside, had to contend with just being outside.. As if the planners of the service expected this, tents were erected outside the perimeter of the church to accommodate those who could not find their way inside - even this was not sufficient. The service commenced with adopted son Sylvanus Fontenard reading out a eulogy. He stressed on the relationship Nelson had with his family and how this closeness conquered all. Efforts to get excerpts of the eulogy from Fonte has proven futile as he seem to make it his personal possession.
The casket, which was dark brown, and varnished with a dazzling gloss, had an opening where a last view of Nelson could be viewed, made its entrance preceded by the priest as it proceeded to the alter.
Here are a few pics from that service.