Freeland Hails ‘Unmistakable Voice’ and Enduring Legacy of Broadcaster Nat Moses
Senator Michael Freeland delivered a moving eulogy Tuesday celebrating the life of Kenneth Nathaniel “Nat Moses” Francis, the veteran broadcaster and former Member of Parliament whose voice, he said, became a comforting presence across Antigua and Barbuda for decades.
Speaking before a full congregation at St. George’s Anglican Church, Freeland described Francis as “a household name — the voice that could not be mistaken,” recalling his rise from humble beginnings in Barnes Hill to national prominence as a beloved radio personality and master of ceremonies.
Francis, born July 27, 1950, was the eldest of eight children of George and Hermina Francis. Freeland said that family remained the foundation of his life. “He was a big brother to all — not just to his siblings but to the community,” Freeland said, adding that his home was a gathering place for laughter, food, and storytelling.
Francis married Yvette Southwell-Francis in 1981 and together they raised three children — Natasha, Khalil and Zazel — and welcomed grandchildren Dizante and Zayden. Freeland said the family’s bond mirrored the values Francis shared with his radio audience: warmth, reliability and a deep sense of care.
A lifelong Anglican, Francis grew up worshipping at St. George’s Church, later serving as an altar boy, acolyte, crucifer and thurifer. Freeland noted that even as a teenager, Francis’s voice carried a resonance that seemed destined for the airwaves.
“He had a natural gift,” Freeland said. “That unmistakable baritone that wrapped around you and made you listen — whether it was a carnival commentary, a church service, or a midnight broadcast.”
Francis attended St. Michael’s Primary School and the Antigua Grammar School, institutions Freeland described as shaping his discipline and eloquence. He went on to become one of Antigua’s most recognizable broadcasters, hosting programs that blended humor, humanity and community spirit. His on-air presence earned him the moniker “Nat Moses,” a name that stayed with him throughout his public and political life.
Beyond broadcasting, Freeland said, Francis gave his time freely to community causes, public events, and cultural celebrations. “He didn’t need a stage to make an impact,” he said. “He carried his light wherever he went.”
Freeland also recalled Francis’s culinary skills and his ability to bring people together through food and conversation. “If you ever tasted Nat’s cooking, you tasted love and patience,” he joked, drawing smiles from the congregation.
Calling Francis “a man of service and faith,” Freeland said his journey reflected dedication, humility and gratitude. “He was the voice of late-night radio, the master of ceremonies at our greatest celebrations, and a steadfast servant to his country,” he said. “He belonged to the people — and the people belonged to him.”
Freeland ended his tribute with a reflection on legacy. “That rich baritone may be silenced,” he said, “but its echo will live on in the hearts of all who tuned in, all who listened, and all who knew him.”
Moments later, Francis’s son took the podium and offered the farewell his father used at the end of every broadcast:
“Good morning, world.”
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