Senator Shenella Govia, representing the Festivals Minister Daryl Matthew, delivered a tribute at the funeral service of the late John Jarvis, honoring his legacy as a true patriot and servant of Antigua and Barbuda.
In her address to family members, clergy, and attendees, Senator Govia expressed regret on behalf of Minister Matthew for his absence due to illness but conveyed his condolences and gratitude for the opportunity to pay homage to a remarkable figure in Antiguan history.
Senator Govia emphasized the importance of celebrating the life of individuals like John Jarvis rather than mourning their passing.
She said, “It is foolish and wrong to mourn the men who died rather we should thank God that such men lived.” This sentiment encapsulated the overarching theme of her tribute, highlighting the profound impact Jarvis had on the community.
Senator Govia lauded Jarvis as a dedicated professional, stating, “He was a consummate professional dedicated to service and possessed a passion for finding solutions to every issue.” She emphasized his multifaceted contributions to various sectors, noting his unwavering commitment to Antigua’s culture, education, and civic life.
Drawing from personal anecdotes and testimonials, Senator Govia painted a vivid picture of Jarvis’s character and achievements.
She recounted, “Many Carnival lovers would agree that Antigua Carnival was at its pinnacle during the late 1980s and early 1990s,” attributing much of its success to Jarvis’s vision and leadership.
Reflecting on Jarvis’s humility and accessibility, Senator Govia remarked, “He was a humble gentleman who never hugged the limelight even though his many roles required him to be in the limelight.” This quality endeared him to all who knew him, making him a beloved figure in the community.
Quoting Maya Angelou, Senator Govia evoked a sense of continuity and remembrance, saying, “When great trees fall, spaces filled with a kind of soothing electric vibration, whisper to us they existed, they existed.” Through these words, she underscored the enduring legacy of Jarvis and the impact he had on Antigua and Barbuda.
Senator Govia extended heartfelt sympathies to Jarvis’s family, acknowledging their loss and expressing gratitude for his exemplary service to the nation. She concluded with a poignant affirmation, stating, “His memory will forever remain ingrained in the collective consciousness of a grateful nation.”
John Jarvis, who became Chairman of the Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission (ABEC) on April 6, 2022, has passed away on January 15, 2024. His death is a significant loss to the nation’s electoral landscape.
Jarvis took over from Nathaniel “Paddy” James, a long-serving member who retired after twenty years with the Commission.
Jarvis’s career brought valuable knowledge and expertise to the ABEC, and his sudden death leaves a gap that will be deeply felt in the electoral community.
The nation mourns the loss of this dedicated public servant and electoral leader.
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I think he was one at PC’s book shop then in discussions on a Friday afternoon while the outlet news paper stir waves, I thought he was a man concerned for the state of antigua affairs, but that election under his watch showed me different.
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