Quiet Dignity & Stirring Sermon at Funeral of Donald G. Jones

Religious Focus

It was a capacity crowd that assembled to say their farewell to Donald George Jones, 91 at the St James Cathedral, Spanish Town, the old capital of Jamaica in 1534. To say the thanksgiving service was dignified would be an understatement.  Widow Melva and family projected a great image.

Heading the impressive list of mourners was Costus of Kingston, Hon. Steadman Fuller and his worship the Mayor of Spanish Town, Clr. Norman Scott to name a few of the dignitaries.

Sermon

Canon Colin Reid

“We fear death as stated in the book of Job.  The journey of no return. We fear the finality of death.  The Psalmist had no fear … because he had a Shepherd to guide him. The Shepherd will guide us during the dark shadows of our lives.  Death is a dark shadow that does cause uncertainty.  Despite the uncertainty he had faith.  Jesus is my Shepherd, whom shall I fear.  The Shepherd did not promise a trouble free life.  God’s children die also. The Shepherd does not abandon us when the going gets tough. Even as I walk through the “valley and shadow of death, I fear no evil.” Donald was not afraid to die.  Christ knew death.  He was not afraid of separation.  He knew the one with whom he walked will take care in his absence.  He was not afraid of the judgment. He confessed his sins.  Donald was not afraid of the finality that occurs that death brings about in the minds of many.  Death is the gateway to that prepared place.  He did make that promise. For the believer … do not have any fear.  To the unbeliever do have no fear.  The end of this journey is the beginning of another journey.  Do not be afraid, for He now joins that crowd of witnesses cheering us in.  The hand of “the big man” as Donald oftentimes did refer to his Maker who will hold our hand.  The souls of the departed  are in good hands … well done, you good and faithful servant.”

Amen!”

Commentary 

In his tribute Vision’s Hopeton O’Connor-Dennie referred to Mr. Jones as a man who, and l quote ” He served without counting the cost … an exemplar, he was a rock … of Gibraltar stock …morally he was our guiding star … a more decent human you cannot find”  end of quote.

The sermon was most comforting and was well received by the capacity  congregation that packed the Cathedral Church in Spanish town.  Mr. Donald Jones was a Justice of the Peace who served the community and church well for many years. Tears flowed copiously.

Vision’s SIC Hopeton O’Connor-Dennie gave written a tribute which was printed in the Order of Service, and filed this story for Vision newspaper in Canada.