Brathley Elroy Dawson

BRATHLEY’S FAMILY

CHILDREN GREAT-UNCLES DESCENDANTS OF THE LATE:

“Family is Where Life begins and Love Never Ends…” Author Unknown Tijahni Charles Rhymer Sr. Beatrice Dawson
K’yante Nicholas Rhymer Herman Frett
Jahzara GREAT-AUNTS Lawrence Altimon Frett
Brijhana Helen Hendricks Virginia Frett
Ki’eyra Ann Rymer Winifred Frett
BROTHERS Harriett Rhymer Erea Frett-Christopher
Kelvin Thomas Icis Malone Eunice Potter
Shane Brathwaite GREAT-GREAT-AUNT Elaine Frett-Brewley
SISTER-IN-LAW Keturah Donovan David Dawson
Oksana Brathwaite COUSINS Rufus Dawson
NIECES Curlyn Fahie - Hodge Albert Edward Dawson
Kailah Thomas Brenda Fahie Hilda Frett
Anastasia Brathwaite Carlmun ‘Kelly’ Romney Chrystalia ‘Lillian’ Green
NEPHEWS Pastor Curnal P. Fahie Gladys Blyden
Akeel Thomas Jasin ‘Robin’ Fahie GOD PARENTS
Isaiah Thomas Jillian Fahie Myrtle Stoutt-Fraites
Dimitry Brathwaite Damien Lettsome Noreen Harrigan
Sergey Brathwaite Arriel Frett Dorothy Hopkins
UNCLES Sharmaine Donovan Diann Todman-Smith
Walton Frett Diehdra Potter ADOPTED MOTHER
Joseph Wellington Romney Denley Vanterpool Utah Donovan Cameron
Boycie Fahie Carmen Vanterpool - Romney ADOPTED FATHER
Louis Potter Jodeen Dawson -Thompson Aubrey Forbes Sr.
AUNTS Beverly Brunn GODCHILD
Dr. Susan Frett-Potter Carolee Brunn G. Navarre Donovan
Marilyn Frett Monica Carbon GOD-BROTHERS
Cynthia Mathavious Charlene Mathavious - Peterson Jarrel ‘JJ’ Rhymer
Enid Green (Adopted) Angela Turnbull Trevaughn Smith
Kaydia Vanterpool Kennard Maduro
Kia Vanterpool Cory Flax-Solomon
Dandre Vanterpool Christopher Peters Jr.
Dante Vanterpool

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GOD-SISTERS Elton Smith “It didn’t matter how big our house was; it mattered that there was love in it.” — Peter Buffett
Perline Scatliffe-Leonard Anthony Smith
Jermine Barry BJorn Caleb
D’Andra Lewis Wayne Campbell
Shurna Smith Jerome ‘Jerry’ Hamm
Janis Christopher Dashan Hodge and Family
Clayton Rhymer
THE MOTHERS OF HIS CHILDREN Daniel ‘Danny’ Smith
Kimba Smith Roxanne Ritter-Herbert
Marsha Wheatley Roy Pickering, Jr.
Gayle Wheatley Azim Williams
Tashima Martin Akeem Pickering
Tracia Smith-Hodge
WORK FAMILIES FAMILY FRIENDS
Her Majesty’s Customs Lydia Benjamin
Staff of BVI Ports Authority Linda Durante and Family
Staff of the Immigration Department Malcia Thomas
Staff of the Treasury Department Adrienne Duchene
CLOSE FRIENDS PALL BEARERS
Hon. Melvin M. Turnbull Her Majesty’s Customs
Ray Brewley Kelvin Thomas
Tamara ‘Snoop’ Scatliffe Denley Vanterpool
G. Navarro Donovan Apostle Curnal P. Fahie
Khari Adams Carlmun Romney
Michael Bassue Jasin Fahie
Nathaniel Malone Damien Lettsome
Damita Hamm-Romney Arriel Frett
Nathaniel Malone Everad Scatliffe
Achieva ‘Kambi Brathwaite USHERS
Amy Callwood-McIntosh Her Majesty’s Customs
Tamika ‘Tika’ Herbert Curlyn Fahie - Hodge
Ralph ‘Scooby’ Fonseca Tisha Scatliffe
Kiffany Smith Malcia Thomas
Dorene Todman
Trisha Todman
Lauren Williams
Gordon Grant
Shaunice Liburd

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ORDER OF SERVICE

PRE-SERVICE

THE PROCESSIONAL ……………………………………………………… Opening Sentences

HYMN …………………………………………………………………………… I stand Amazed

I stand amazed in the presence In pity angels beheld Him,
Of Jesus the Nazarene, And came from the world of light
And wonder how He could love me, To strengthen Him in the sorrows
A sinner condemned, unclean. He bore for my soul that night.

How marvelous! How wonderful! He took my sins and my sorrows,
And my song shall ever be: He made them His very own;
How marvelous! How wonderful! He bore the burden to Calv’ry,
Is my Savior’s love for me! And suffered, and died alone.

For me it was in the garden, When with the ransomed in glory
He prayed: “Not my will, but Thine.” His face I at last shall see,
He had no tears for His own griefs, ’Twill be my joy through the ages
But sweat-drops of blood for mine. To sing of His love for me.

 

PRAYERS………………………………………………………………………………........ Minister

THE DECLARATION…………………………………………………………………...… Minister

EULOGY/REMEMBRANCE……………………………………………......Brenda Fahie (Cousin)
TRIBUTES
Selections ………………………………………………………….................Kailah Thomas (Niece)
Her Majesty’s Customs

SSCRIPTURE READING ………… Psalm 130…………………………...........….Gerald Fleming
(Assistant Commissioner H. M. Customs)

EPISTLE………………… Romans 8: 31 - 39…………………………......Dashan Hodge (Friend)
...
GOSPEL……………… St. John 14: 1 – 6 & 27……………………………....……………Minister

SERMON.......................................................................................................................................Minister

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HYMN ………………………………………………………………………………Farther Along

Tempted and tried we’re oft made to wonder, Faithful till death said our loving Master,
Why it should be thus all the day long; A few more days to labour and wait;
While there are others living about us, Toils of the road will then seem as nothing,
Never molested, though in the wrong. As we sweep through the beautiful gate.

Farther along we’ll know all about it, When we see Jesus coming in glory,
Farther along we’ll understand why; When He comes from His home in the sky;
Cheer up my brothers, live in the sunshine, Then we shall meet Him in that bright mansion,
We’ll understand it all by and by. We’ll understand it all by and by.

When death has come and taken our loved ones,
It leaves our home so lonely and drear;
Then do we wonder why others prosper,
Living so wicked year after year.

THE APOSTLES’ CREED (Please Stand)

I believe in God, the Father Almighty,
creator of heaven and earth.
I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord.
He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit
and born of the Virgin Mary.
He suffered under Pontius Pilate,
was crucified, died, and was buried.
He descended to the dead,
On the third day he rose again,
He ascended into heaven,
and is seated at the right hand of the Father.
He will come again to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit;
The holy, catholic Church;
The Communion of Saints;
The Forgiveness of sins;
The Resurrection of the body,
And the life everlasting, Amen.
PRAYERS OF THANKSGIVING ……………………………................................……....Minister
COMMENDATION……………………………………………................................….….Minister
THE LORD’S PRAYER
BENEDICTION

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RECESSIONAL HYMN……………………………………… Sing the Wondrous Love of Jesus

Sing the wondrous love of Jesus, Let us, then, be true and faithful,
Sing His mercy and His grace; Trusting, serving ev’ry day;
In the mansions, bright and blessed, Just one glimpse of Him in glory
He’ll prepare for us a place. Will the toils of life repay.

When we all get to heaven Onward to the prize before us!
What a day of rejoicing that will be! Soon His beauty we’ll behold;
When we all see Jesus, Soon the pearly gates will open,
We’ll sing and shout the victory. We shall tread the streets of gold.

While we walk the pilgrim pathway,
Clouds will overspread the sky;
But when trav’lling days are over,
Not a shadow, not a sigh.

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HYMNS AT THE RESTING PLACE

In the Sweet By and By We’ll Never Say Good-bye in Heaven

There’s a land that is fairer than day, Our friends on earth we meet with pleasure,
And by faith we can see it afar; While swift the moments fly,
For the Father waits over the way, Yet ever comes the thought of sadness
To prepare us a dwelling-place there. That we must say good-bye.

In the sweet by and by, We’ll never say good-bye in heav’n,
We shall meet on that beautiful shore We’ll never say, good-bye,..
In the sweet by and by, For in that land of joy and song
We shall meet on that beautiful shore. We’ll never say, good-bye.

We shall sing on that beautiful shore How joyful is the thought that lingers,
The melodious songs of the blest, When lov’d ones cross death’s sea,
And our spirits shall sorrow no more, That when our labours here are ended,
Not a sigh for the blessing of rest. With them we’ll ever be.

To our bountiful Father above, No parting words shall e’er be spoken
We will offer our tribute of praise, In that bright land of flow’rs;
For the glorious gift of his love, But songs of joy and peace and gladness
And the blessings that hallow our days. Shall evermore be ours.

I’ll Fly Away What a Friend we have in Jesus

Some glad morning when this life is o’er, What a Friend we have in Jesus,
I’ll fly away; All our sins and griefs to bear!
To a home on God’s celestial shore, What a privilege to carry
I’ll fly away (I’ll fly away). Everything to God in prayer!
Oh, what peace we often forfeit,
I’ll fly away, Oh Glory Oh, what needless pain we bear –
I’ll fly away; (in the morning) All because we do not carry
When I die, Hallelujah, by and by, Everything to God in prayer!
I’ll fly away (I’ll fly away).
Have we trials and temptations?
When the shadows of this life have gone, Is there trouble anywhere?
I’ll fly away; We should never be discouraged;
Like a bird from prison bars has flown, Take it to the Lord in prayer.
I’ll fly away (I’ll fly away) Can we find a Friend so faithful,
Who will all our sorrows share?
Just a few more weary days and then, Jesus knows our every weakness –
I’ll fly away; Take it to the Lord in prayer
To a land where joy shall never end,
I’ll fly away (I’ll fly away) Are we weak and heavy-laden
Cumbered with a load of care?
Precious Saviour, still our refuge –
Take it to the Lord in prayer.
Do thy friend despise, forsake thee?
Take it to the Lord in prayer;
In His arms He’ll take and shield thee,
Thou wilt find a solace there.

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Will You Meet Me in the Morning Shall we Gather at the River

Will you meet me in the morning, Shall we gather at the river
On that bright and golden shore? Where bright angel-feet have trod;
Will your lamp be trimmed and burning, With its crystal tide for ever
When He comes to take you o’er? Flowing by the throne of God?
Yes, I’ll meet you in the morning,
When I hear the Saviour’s call; Yes, we’ll gather at the river,
“Come, ye blessed of My Father, The beautiful, the beautiful river;
To a home prepared for all. Gather with the saints at the river,
Oh to meet on that bright morning, That flows by the throne of God.
When the clouds have passed away! On the margin of the river,
Oh to walk and talk with Jesus, Washing up its silver spray,
There to dwell with Him for aye! We will walk and worship ever
When we meet our loving Saviour, All the happy, golden day.
What a happy hour ‘twill be, Ere we reach the shining river;
When we gathered with our loved ones, Lay we every burden down;
And their happy faces see! Grace our spirits will deliver,
Oh, this thought should make us happy, And provide a robe and crown.
And we all should love Him more; At the shining of the river,
For He’ll come, and will not tarry, Mirror of the Saviour’s face,
Come to bear us safely o’er. Saints whom death will never sever
Raise their songs of saving grace.
When the Trumpet of the Lord Shall Sound Soon we’ll reach the silver river,
Soon our pilgrimage will cease;
When the trumpet of the Lord shall sound, Soon our happy hearts will quiver
and time shall be no more With the melody of peace.
And the morning breaks, eternal, bright, and fair;
When the saved of earth shall gather God be with you till we Meet Again
over on the other shore
And the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there. God be with you till we meet again!
When the roll is called up yonder. By His counsels guide uphold you,
When the roll is called up yonder, With His sheep securely fold you;
When the roll is called up yonder, God be with you till we meet again!
When the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there.
On that bright and cloudless morning Till we meet!... Till we meet!
When the dead in Christ shall rise Till we meet at Jesus’ feet;
And the glory of His resurrection share; Till we meet!... Till we meet!
When His chosen ones shall gather to God be with you till we meet again!
their home beyond the skies, God be with you till we meet again!
And the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there. Neath His wings securely hide you,
Daily mana still provide you;
Let me labour for the Master from God be with you till we meet again!
The dawn till setting sun, God be with you till we meet again!
Let me talk of all His wondorous love and care; When life’s perils thick confound you,
Then, when all of life is over, Put His loving arms around you;
and my work on earth is done, God be with you till we meet again!
And the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there. God be with you till we meet again!
Keep love’s banner floating o’er you,
Smile death’s threatening wave before you;
God be with you till we meet again!

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To: Daddy Dawson TRIBUTES

You never said I’m leaving, I do not like not knowing for sure
You never said goodbye. What happens when you die!
You were gone before we knew it, But, I really love to believe
And only God knew why. That you are in a heaven past the sky.

I miss my granny dearly, Rest in peace, Daddy Dawson
With her you had to go. Our tears will surely flow
Your picture is all I have, Your picture is all I have of you,
There is much I don’t understand and know. It is sad that you had to go.

“You are the bows from which your children as living arrows are sent forth.¨ — Khalil Gibran I will think of you as resting From: Ti’Jahni Amar Dawson
From the sorrows and the tears,
In a place of warmth and comfort
As I journey without you over the years.

My Daddy, My Hero!

Daddy, I am going to miss the times we spent together especially when we are watching TV and playing video
games and I would lay on your back, and you would try and shake me off. You are not here to see me grow up and
become a man and you will miss out on all the important things in my life. I will miss how you would laugh to tears
whenever I said, “Jack I tell yo’!” It makes me sad that you are gone never to come back.
Daddy, I love you and will miss you a lot.

Your Lil’ Man, K’Yante

On May 4, 2022, we were spiraled into shock and our lives were forever changed. We have to keep our faith in
God’s plan and trust He has a reason for everything in times like these. Sleep in peace, Dad. I pray you’re in a
better place…

Love, Jahzara

I am sending a dove to Heaven, with a parcel on its wings.
Be careful when you open it, it’s full of beautiful things.
Inside are a million kisses, wrapped up in a million hugs.
To say how much I miss you, and to send you all my love.
I hold you close within my heart and there you will remain
To walk with me throughout my life, until we meet again.
Author Unknown

Love, Bri

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TRIBUTES “A family is a risky venture, because the greater the love, the greater the loss… That’s the trade-off. But I’ll take it all.” — Brad Pitt

Daddy,

If only these words I am writing was another message sent. You caught me by surprise, and though I know that you
are gone, I am still in disbelief. The little girl inside of me is still waiting to hear that you are okay. They say there is
a reason, that time will heal the wounds, but neither time nor reason will change the way I feel. I know that it will
get easier as time goes by. One day the pain will go away, and I will smile in memory of you despite the sadness. I’ll
laugh at the memory of me teasing you for growing a beard while your bald spot remained. One day, in the midst
of this darkness, your star will shine bright upon me.
You were looking forward to me becoming a “big time lawyer” so I can buy you that Porsche Cayenne. You said, “It
doesn’t have to be brand new a second hand can work”, and you laughed. Unfortunately, you’re gone and will not
see that come to fruition. I can guarantee you with God’s help I will become that “big time” lawyer.
Gone too soon is all I can say. The tears will fall, but the fond memories will live on in my heart forever. Love you,
daddy forever and always.

Your WaWa, Ki’eyra

Jack I tell yo’! I watched my little nephew developed from a very tiny baby into a giant of a man, but yet very humble,
kind, caring, well-mannered and respectful. These character traits and many more were constant reminders of
those that my father, his grandfather, possessed – the others which he was always lovingly teased about. We were
looking forward to spending more time together and enjoying some good old times like my last New Year’s Day at
home. My home-coming would not be the same. Rest in Peace, our Half Pound.

Uncle Walton and Auntie Marilyn

Jack I tell yo’! We were looking forward to more grand times including eating ham for the rest of the year and
digging up those whelks buried in the freezer. “Listen here nuh!” Never in our wildest dreams did we expect this
one!!!!!!! We surely miss those special moments - your grand entrance like no other, the ‘CNN’ updates, your
funny sense of humour with a serious face followed by a sly chuckle and in the same laughter the “Jack, I tell yo’”
followed, the blocking of the driveway like no one else and then the “Listen here, nuh! I goin’ call my cousin to tow
away the vehicle that’s blocking me.”
“Jack, I tell yo’!” This one is haaaaard, toooouuuuugh and roooouuuugh; however, not even your sudden passing
would end that special bond that we shared. “You won’t hear the end of this one!”
May God grant you that much needed Eternal Rest.

Auntie Susie, Uncle Louis, Damie (Bongo Boy), Dee, D’mauni (The Yankee), Germaine and the
mu-mu dogs.

We had one common bond, The Monarch. Our paths never crossed often, but Monday, 2nd May, 2022, will forever
be etched in my memory. I never thought that day would be the last time I saw you alive. Rest in eternal peace
until we meet again, Monarch boy.

Your Brother, Kelvin

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“Being a family means you are part of something very wonderful. It means you will love and be loved for the rest of your life.” –Lisa Weed TRIBUTES

Brado, as we normally called you, would never be forgotten. I still remember your daily visits to the store every
afternoon standing by the door and the customers would call you the Security Guard, but to me you were like my
brother. Living so close to you and seeing your house every day, it is hard to believe you are gone. You will truly
be missed in our little neighbourhood. May you rest peacefully.

Cuz Denley and Family

My Beloved Brat,

I’m sitting here writing this tribute on your birthday with a broken heart. I still find it so difficult to believe that
you’re gone. Brat, you were the best cousin ever; I’m so blessed to have had you in my life. You were a kind, caring,
loving and devoted son, father, cousin and friend. As I am deeply saddened by your sudden passing, it is the
memory of your cool, calm, strong and humorous demeanor that console me. My memories of you will forever
live in my heart. I find solace knowing that you’re safe in God’s loving arms and reunited with your mom and dad
in the Heavenly Kingdom. Rest peacefully my dear Brat, until we see each other again. “Jack I tell yo!”

Your Cuz, Jodeen “Jo” Dawson-Thompson

To: My Cousin, Brathley

Brathley, I still can’t believe you are gone. Receiving that phone call on 4th May, 2022, was heart breaking. Brathley,
remembering the things we did together as kids, especially those while living together at Vanterpool for a few
years, put a smile on my face and happiness in my heart. As we grew up, even if we didn’t see each other or spoke
often, those memories will always be in my heart.

Kelly

To: Brath

On Tuesday, 3rd May, while on a call you beeped in and I told you I would call you back. (It was my intention to
call you the next day, as I was preparing to leave the house). However, as fate would have it, I returned your call,
a call that would end up being one of our marathons (3 hours). We talked and laughed about so much that night
inclusive of our plans to purchase plants to take to our mothers’ graves on Mother’s Day.
Brath, hours later, the following day, I got that knee wobbling phone call that ached my heart. I still can’t believe
I won’t see or hear from you again. “Listen here”, your death turned the entire family bottom up. Our social lives
will not be the same without you. Your humour and smart remarks were unmatched – “HELLO!” “Listen here!”
You would have me on the ground rolling with laughter while your face serious as sin or sometimes only your
shoulders moving with a faint smile. We shared a special bond and I am happy that you trusted me enough to
become one of your confidants. Memories are what I’m left with of our happy and not so happy times and our
secrets. JACK I TELL YO’!”
Rest easy, Brath, until we meet again.

Love you, forever, Jackie aka ‘Power House’

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TRIBUTES

Half Pound and Jack I tell Yo’

Growing up you were called Half Pound because you were born the smallest of the grandchildren at that time. “Call it a clan, call it a network, call it a tribe, call it a family: Whatever you call it, whoever you are, you need one.” — Jane Howard
Fast forward to adulthood, you got the name, Jack I tell Yo’. Your smile was always something that caught anyone’s
attention.
When we learnt about your sudden passing, we were in shock and total disbelief. We still cannot believe you are
gone. Our lives have been turned bottom up and our hearts are heavy with grief as our cousin chain has been
broken once again.
Rest in peace till we meet again,

Auntie Judith’s Clan (Curlyn, Jackie, Robin, Kerry and their families)

We were cousins by blood, but much more than family – we were friends. We will always remember your famous
saying, “Jack I tell you!” Brathley’s memory will always live on in our hearts.
May your soul Rest in Peace.

Curnal (Hank), Arriel and Sharmaine

Our hearts were broken immensely when we learned of our beloved Brathley Dawson’s passing. We spent some
amazing times with you and your mother, Joan, deceased. We looked forward to travel from St. Thomas to Tortola
or communication by telephone. Our homes were always opened to each other and no favour or request was a
burden. As our households changed and grew over the years, we celebrated your accomplishments or prayed
together during difficult times.
Farewell – gone, but not forgotten.

Ina Blyden and Family

My dear cousin, Bratt, we texted and spoke the Monday before your passing. I was shocked when I got the phone
call and broke down at work in tears. We consistently checked on each other often and I am going to miss our
communication.

May you Rest in Peace, Cuz, Brathley Dawson.
Jasmine Blyden

Brathley, as we all knew him was a man of strength, very loving, caring, kind, sincere, respectful and humble. On
Wednesday, 4th May, our Heavenly Father granted Brathley the opportunity to display strength, love, a caring
attitude and kindness to a family in need of such help before taking him home to be with Him in that Pearly Whi
te City. To his children, the family, his friends and co-workers let us hold on to the memories we have of Brathley
and do what we need to, too, so that when our time comes to depart this life we will be ready for that eternal life
with God.

May his soul rest in eternal peace. 13
Mariel, Kichelle and Louis

“A happy family is but an earlier heaven.” – George Bernard Shaw TRIBUTES

Brathley, I’m proud to have been able to call you my Godson. I remember when you were born, your dad and mom
were so proud to welcome you into their lives and wanted me to be part of your life as well.
Brathley, you made a difference in so many lives. Your parents were so very proud of you. You turned out to be
such a great young man. You also became a great father. We will miss you, Brathley. I will miss talking with you.
I know I will see you again. Love you, Brathley!

Your Godmother, Dorothy Hopkins

Family, Friends and Co-workers
Today, we are all experiencing a deep void in our lives. When we received the message that our beloved cousin,
Brathley, passed it came as a tremendous shock to us. It felt as if a stake was placed in our hearts and it was just a
dream. No words can express just how we felt. We may question why, but God knew best.
Brathley was a gift from God who loved life to the fullest. Brathley impacted so many lives and loved and
cherished his family with much love. He was friendly, kind and loving. Let us not forget the loving memories he
has left behind and the shoe we all have to fill.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.

Felecia and Teshelle

From the moment you discovered that I was your God-sister we developed this special bond. In school we never
passed each other, you with that smile and I with mine.
That smile and soft voice will always be remembered.
The last time we spoke face-to-face was at Rite Way (Road Reef). As I walked in and our eyes met I saw that
smile in your eyes and I know you saw the same in mine. We couldn’t see the real smiles because of these masks.
Of course we held up the line chatting while you were cashing. This was always the norm whenever we met up,
never passed each other without having a conversation whether long or short. I am so happy that I got to spend
those few minutes with you just catching up.
I will miss those conversations and that smile but I know that you are in a better and safer place.
Rest in eternal peace.

Your loving God-sister,
Jermine

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TRIBUTES “The bond that links your true family is not one of blood, but of respect and joy in each other’s life.” Richard Bach

Mr. Brathley Dawson joined the Public Service on 15th February, 1999, and was subsequently confirmed as a
permanent and pensionable Public Officer. He was later transferred to the Customs Department as a Customs
Trainee Officer on 3rd September, 2001. Officer Dawson began his training at Soper’s Hole, West End port of
entry, and was often left to manage the station as a Junior Officer. As a result of his hard work and dedication,
he was promoted through the ranks of Customs Officer 1, 11, 111 and Senior Customs Officer.
He was a well-rounded officer who worked at all ports of entry on Tortola. He sharpened his tools and
skill set, and as a Senior Customs Officer, he managed and supervised the largest cargo port in the British
Virgin Islands (Port Purcell), where he was responsible for the majority of the annual revenue collected by
the Customs Department. Later, his knowledge and skill set required the Department to utilize him at the
Customs Automated Processing Trade Declaration Centre (CAPS). He was responsible for all importers’
entries submitted to Customs manually and electronically.
Officer Dawson was well known within the community, respected by his peers, disciplined, and took his job
seriously. He always made the sacrifice to go above and beyond to facilitate legitimate trade. Members of
staff who worked closely with Officer Dawson would seek advice and guidance on personal and professional
matters because he was well informed socially and politically and was current on world events.
On 4th May, 2022, Mr. Dawson arrived at work and engaged in daily routine as he prepared to execute his
duties when he met his untimely passing. His death impacted the Customs family in a way we never expected;
however, the years spent working with him will be forever etched in our hearts. May his soul rest in eternal
peace.

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“Family is not defined by our genes, it is built and maintained through love.” Author Unknown TRIBUTES

It’s our honour to speak today about Brathley Dawson, although we wish we were talking at your retirement
party instead of your funeral. We all know that life isn’t fair. And it’s not fair that our office will be without
Brathley’s booming voice and contagious laugh. Things won’t ever be the same. You were a great team leader who
always expected the best from us and went the extra mile to help. He will be missed. Jack I tell you!

C.A.P.S Declaration Centre

Tribute to Dawson
Today we reflect on Brathley’s legacy as a friend and a colleague. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
To his children and close relatives, our hearts and prayers are with you at this most difficult time. Adlai Stevenson
the US Ambassador to the United Nations (1961-1965), once commented about a man and his contribution: “It
is not the years in a life that counts; it is the life in the years.” Brathley lived. We will all miss him. May his soul
rest in eternal peace.

CAPS Project Team & Assurance Unit

As we honour Brathley by expressing our loss, we also remember Brathley Dawson, an amazing person who has
played a unique and special role in all of our lives. We remember Brathley as a colleague, father and brother, and
most of all a comedian. As a father and colleague, Brathley will be deeply missed. In the years that lie ahead, I’m
sure his profound temperament is passed on to his kids.
And today we’ll grieve for you, cry for you and even smile because of you,
And in all the tomorrows we’ll feel you - gone in some ways, but your presence ever nearby.
Rest in peace our colleague, friend, father, and brother. Your famous words, “JACK I TELL YOU”, will forever
live on in our lives - our new mission statement.

Staff of West End & Jost Van Dyke Customs

Tribute to Dawson
As we honour a great man, we express our loss and feelings by remembering Dawson, our beloved colleague. He
was indeed truly an amazing individual and the impact he has left on all of us will truly be cherished. May God
give the family peace and his memories lives on within us as we reflect on his legacy as a friend and a colleague.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.

Virgin Gorda Customs

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TRIBUTES

Sorrow fills our hearts at this sad moment, a sorrow that is deep and personal. Brathley has silently closed the door
of life and departed from us. Our lives will be empty in the areas that he had brightened for us. May your soul Rest
in Eternal Peace.

K9 Unit

Special is what you were and that is how we will always remember you. Thank you for the laughs, and light “Nothing but heaven itself is better than a friend who is really a friend.” Plautus
moments that we have shared. Jack I Tell you, you will truly be missed. Rest in peace, Brathley.

Road Town Station

Goodbyes are not forever,
Goodbyes are not the end.
They simply mean, we will miss you
Until we meet again.
It will take some time to adjust to hearing one of your favourite phrases, “Jack I tell yuh”, without having the
memories of your smile or anticipating the colours of your socks. Rest in Peace.

Customs Administration Unit

The character of life Brathley lived might be summed up in a few words: he was sincere, he was earnest, he was
kind. Brathley was living proof of how good a friend and colleague can be to many of us here at H.M. Customs. He
loved his job as a Customs Officer and he departed this life doing one of the things he enjoyed the most.
Our sorrow is lessened only slightly with the comforting thought that we had the privilege not only to work
alongside Brathley, but to know and love him for who he was. To his children and family members we say a
heartfelt thank you, for having shared Brathley with us. We will continue to pray that God comfort and keep you,
as you mourn the loss of a warm and wonderful individual.

Her Majesty’s Customs Virgin Islands, Beef Island

Life is but a stopping place, Our destination is a place,
A pause in what’s to be, Far greater than we know.
A resting place along the road, For some the journey’s quicker,
To sweet eternity For some the journey’s slow.
We all have different journeys, And when the journey finally ends,
Different paths along the way, We’ll make a great step forward,
We all were meant to learn some things, And find an everlasting peace,
But never mean to stay… As our special reward. (Author Unknown)

Debra James & The Petroleum and Concession Unit

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“Good fellowship and friendship are lasting, rational and manly pleasures.” William Wycherley TRIBUTES

Albert Einstein said, “The value of a man should be seen in what he gives and not in what he is able to receive.”
In one word, Brathley was a man who gave. He gave much to his work in dedication and much to laughter
and jokes, a life that exemplified brilliance as he always aimed to work smart and not hard. May you never be
forgotten for the impact you made in this world.
Jack…this one rough! Rest in Peace, Brathley.

Your colleague, Sandi Jeffrey

To: Brathley Elroy Dawson, devoted son, loving father, charismatic individual, humorous co-worker with the
corniest saying ever, “Jack-I-Tell-Uh”.
According to Ecclesiastes 3:1-8, “For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven. A time
to be born and a time to die. A time to plant and a time to harvest. A time to kill and a time to heal. A time to
tear down and a time to build up. A time to cry and a time to laugh. A time to grieve and a time to dance. A time
to scatter stones and a time to gather stones. A time to embrace and a time to turn away. A time to search and a
time to quit searching. A time to keep and a time to throw away. A time to tear and a time to mend. A time to be
quiet and a time to speak. A time to love and a time to hate. A time for war and a time for peace.”
You had your time and you have much to be proud of that you used the time God gave you to enjoy a little bit of
all of the purposes of this scripture and the Lord can welcome you in His kingdom, Good and Faithful Servant!
I will miss the colourful socks, but I guess I can carry-on the style for you, Love You!!!

Mareta Isles

Brathley had such an exuberant spirit. This may be the understatement of the century.
The first thing I noticed about Brathley was his personality in which I would like to celebrate with you today.
Let’s start by remembering his favorite words, “JACK I TELL YOU”, and the way he would answer the phone,
“HELLO! HELLO!” with a deep voice as he did about half an hour before his death on the phone call to find
out if he was okay with the accident in front of him and also to mention he did his good deed before his death.
Brathley was a great Team leader. To his colleagues he spoke his mind. Opinions would be crosses, BUT at the
end of the day he would sort it out and work goes on. He loved to help so with those memories may he Rest in
Peace, JACK.

Patricia Lettsome

On May 04, 2022, when I received the news of Senior Customs Officer Dawson, I was heartbroken and deeply
saddened. I wish to offer my gratitude and appreciation for his dedication of service to the country, while taking
the time I wish to acknowledge his passing.
On behalf of my family, I wish to extend heartfelt sympathies to the immediate family, especially his children
who have been left to mourn his loss. May his soul rest in peace.

Gerald Fleming, Assistant Commissioner Customs Enforcement, Family

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TRIBUTES A friend is a gift you give yourself. Robert Louis Stevenson

Brathley was not only my colleague at H.M. Customs, he was also a good friend. I have known and worked with
him for many years. Brathley took his job very seriously and he enjoyed doing it. He livened up the office with his
laughter and many jokes.
I now often think back on the many times he visited my home in our younger days just to talk and hang out for a
few hours. He was there so often that he became part of the family. He had a really good sense of humour and we
joked around all the time. I will miss the many phone calls we shared. When we called each other on the phone we
would jokingly greet each other saying “Yea, Scallywag or Buffoon.”
We spoke the morning he passed away and that is why his death came as a shock to me. I still cannot believe that
he is really gone. I will always remember and miss him.

Farewell, My Friend!
Duncan Maduro

To the Memory of the Late Brathley Dawson
None of us know the day or the hour when we shall transition from this world to the great beyond. Any although
we know that death is inevitable, it often takes us by surprise.
Words are simply inadequate to express the immense void that I feel since I received the sad news that Brathley had
passed. I’m still numb as it feels so unreal. Brathley joined the Customs Department (Customs) in 2001, and I had
the pleasure of working with him as a colleague and as his Supervisor during my years of service with Customs.
Brathley and I developed such a special bond that his mother, the late Joan Dawson, always referred to him as my
son. He looked up to me as a father-figure and frequently turned to me for advice; and I felt it was my duty to
provide the best guidance that I possibly could as a colleague, a friend and as a dad would to a son.
Brathley and I maintained contact with each other almost on a daily basis. As a youngster and as someone more
on the cutting edge of technology than I am, apart from sharing his technological knowledge with me, Brathley
eagerly kept me abreast of current events. As a matter of fact, I received what would now be his last message to
me approximately two hours before his sudden departure. For me, Brathley’s passing is extremely painful! I will
sorely miss our regular check-ins, his sense of humour and his endearing personality.
To Brathley’s children and his entire family circle, I express heartfelt condolence to you in your time of grief. May
you find comfort in knowing that God is always there for you; He will never leave you nor forsake you.
May the soul of our dearly departed, Brathley Dawson, rest in eternal peace!

Aubrey Forbes
Former Customs Officer

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MEMORIES

Brathley’s Children

Tijahni’s portrait of his dad

Tijahni K’yante
Ki’eyra
Brijhana

Jahzara

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MEMORIES

21

MEMORIES

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FOREVER A PART OF OUR LIVES

I want to be remembered, You see, … I just wanted to be the best I could be,
For the good deeds I have done. For you and me
And to shine brighter than the sun. And everyone else who needed me.
Not for what I forgot Because… little deeds of kindness,
Or what I have, Little words of love,
But, just for the love I gave, Make this earth an Eden
For the smiles I spread, Like the heaven above.
The hungry I have fed, I just want to be remembered … for just being me!
And the helping hand I extended;
I want to be remembered. (Isaac Watts; Neva Romaine – Adapted)
Good deeds are gifts;
They are blessings
That you cannot buy with cash.
They are quite precious and wonderful things
Filled with compassion.
How sweet are the feelings!
Oh! The happiness and hope they bring!

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Our heartfelt thanks and appreciation to the Commissioner and the Staff of Her
Majesty’s Customs and Her Majesty’s Customs Automated Processing Trade
Declaration Centre (CAPS) Division, especially Officer Sandi Jeffrey, the Paramedics
of the Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital and all those persons who rendered assistance
to Brathley.
Special thanks to Affinier Dry Cleaning and Clothing Care Services, especially
Suzette Thomas, Central Bakery (aka Josh’s Bakery), Blossom’s Florist, Royal Shop,
Everyday Fashion, Marsha Wheatley, Germaine Fahie, Stone Haven Restaurant,
Tortola Memorial Services/Davis Funeral Home and an extra special thank you to
Brathley’s many colleagues and friends who stood by his side and gave a helping hand
when needed to ease his burden with his mom. Thanks also to the many persons
who called, visited, prayed and expressed words of comfort during one of the most
difficult times in our lives, and to all of you who came today to support the family as
we remember our dearly beloved, BRATHLEY.
We kindly request your continued prayers, love and support as we struggle to cope
with such a heavy loss.

With Special Thanks and Appreciation - The Frett and Dawson Families