A tomb in Surrey for Jit

The tomb, comprising immaculately white tiles and an ornate railing, was unveiled during a simple private ceremony in the Surrey Village cemetery to commemorate the first anniversary of Samaroo’s death, his wife Balmatie told Sunday Newsday.

“The corporation always said they wanted to do it and they felt that it was appropriate to unveil it on the anniversary of his death,” she said.

Samaroo, 65, lost an almost decade long battle with Alzheimer’s Disease at his home in Mausica, D’Abadie, on January 7, 2016.

The prolific pan arranger, long hailed as a musical icon, had led the east Port-of- Spain band, BP Renegades, to nine National Panorama titles and was bestowed with the Humming Bird Medal of Merit (Silver) in 1987 as well as the Chaconia Medal (Silver) in 1995 and an honorary doctorate from the University of the West Indies in 2003 for his contribution to culture and the steelband movement .

Samaroo was also associated with Arima Angel Harps, Deltones and Sangre Grande Cordettes .

Balmatie said she felt some apprehension ahead of the unveiling.

“I was feeling worse than I did at his funeral but now I am a little better,” she said.

Balmatie said before the event, members of Samaroo’s family, including his four children, participated in a quiet, religious service at his home.

Samaroo’s son, Amrit, has followed in his father’s footsteps as the arranger for champion band Super Novas.

Balmatie described her late husband was a “nice and loving” person.

“The truest happiness was his music and passion for the steel pan. With much move, he created music that will live on in our hearts,” she said.