Joyful last rites for murdered activist

MURDERED PNM ACTIVIST Carl Stone was given a peaceful, joyous funeral service at the First Church of the Open Bible yesterday. More than 500 mourners, including House Speaker Barry Sinanan, Community Development Minister, Joan Yuille-Williams and San Fernando West MP Diane Seukeran, gathered at the church on Ruth Avenue, San Fernando, to bid a final farewell to Stone. Prime Minister Patrick Manning who was said to be a good friend of Stone did not attend the funeral.

The service was filled with laughter and fond memories of a man who was described as “a loving, helpful, kind person with the highest morals and values.” In the eulogy his sister, Deborah Conrad, recalled fond childhood memories of her eldest brother. “This week someone chose to take away memories I had hoped to continue sharing with him. Our family will never be the same,” she said. She told the congregation that Stone, an active member of the Open Bible Church, had been excitedly planning his only daughter’s wedding, which was carded for December, at the time of his death.

On a happier note, she said Stone had touched many people in extraordinary ways and his life was well lived. Also paying tribute to Stone, who had been employed with WASA for 37 years, was Seukeran, WASA CEO Errol Grimes and church member, Keith Simmons. Stone is survived by his wife, Doreen and children, Dennison, Patrice and Ancil. Following the service, Stone was buried at the Roodal Cemetary at Lady Hailes Avenue, San Fernando.