Farah cremated after tear-filled funeral

Scores of people turned up at St Finbar’s RC Church  yesterday to bid farewell to Annette Farah, the bank retiree/social worker, who was shot and killed at her Westmoorings home last Saturday. Tears flowed freely among relatives and friends, who consoled each other throughout the service which was officiated by Father Tom Larson.

Farah’s close friend Jackie McKenzie broke down in tears as she delivered the eulogy. McKenzie recalled Farah’s lifestyle and hailed her as one of the most friendly persons to be around. “Full of life, laughter and sometimes mischief is how I could describe Annette. And although there seemed to be many fun times, Annette would even take the time to lend an ear and offer her guidance in some sticky situations.” Acknowledging that Farah had no children of her own, McKenzie said she was still concerned about how Farah’s family, her nieces and nephews would cope with her loss as Farah was considered to be the livewire of the family.

But Father Larson called on the congregation not to lose faith in God, saying, “Although Annette’s killing was senseless, we have to know that God was present at that particular time. Even if you don’t see God in particular situations, it does not mean He has neglected us. The evil men do is not of God, but He was present at the time and He took Annette home.” Father Larson said he knew the pain Annette’s family and friends were going through, but he insisted that they keep hope and let their master see them through this difficult period. Following the funeral service, Farah’s body was taken to the St James crematorium where a private ceremony was held.

Farah was killed on Saturday night following a family gathering at her home. Reports are that Farah was with other relatives when she went out in to the yard to sit. According to reports, Farah was sitting on a bench in her yard when two armed men scaled her fence and entered the yard. One man put a gun to Farah’s neck while the other kept other relatives away with the use of a cutlass. Farah was ordered to hand over her jewelry, which she willingly did. However, before running off, the gun toting bandit shot Farah in the neck. Farah died while receiving treatment at hospital.