PROCESSIONAL
Bishop Dr. Vernon G. Lambe Sr.
OPENING PRAYER
Bishop Dr. Vernon G. Lambe Sr.
OPENING HYMN
It Is Well With My Soul ~ Conrad Roach, Trumpet
WORDS OF COMFORT
Pastor Dean Smith
MUSICAL TRIBUTE
He’s My Rock ~ Antonia Simons, Soloist
SCRIPTURE READING
Romans 8: 38-39 ~ Suzanne Rackley (Sister)
Psalm 100 ~ C. Waverley Minors (Sister-in-Law)
MUSICAL TRIBUTE
Precious Lamb of God ~ Jalon Smith, Saxophonist
TRIBUTES
Katrina Darrell (Daughter)
Clyde Darrell Jr. (Son)
VIDEO TRIBUTE
Verona Darrell
OBITUARY
Will Rackley (Brother-in-Law)
MUSICAL TRIBUTE
The Prayer ~ Antonia Simons, Soloist
EULOGY
Bishop Dr. Vernon G. Lambe Sr.
CLOSING SONG
Battle Hymn of the Republic ~ Conrad Roach, Trumpet
CLOSING PRAYER
Pastor Dean Smith
RECESSIONAL
Bishop Dr. Vernon G. Lambe Sr. & Family
Jalon Smith, Saxophonist
CLYDE L. M. DARRELL
The best ambassadors do not carry titles; they carry themselves with dignity, treat others with kindness, and represent through how they live, love, and lead. Without fanfare or formal title, the most impactful ambassadors carry this distinction with quiet grace.
On July 11, 1953, Bermuda welcomed Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Phillip during their coronation tour. Crowds gathered, dignitaries stood tall, and ambassadors lined the streets of Cedar Avenue, King’s Square to greet the royal couple. Yet, far from the fanfare, a quieter but equally profound arrival was taking place - the birth of Clyde Lawson Mansfield Darrell, born to the late Lawson and Eileen Darrell.
By most people’s standards, Clyde lived an accomplished life. Born and raised in Bermuda, Clyde was a man of quiet strength and vibrant character. During his early childhood, Clyde was known for keeping to himself, often seeking out the family pet, Trixie, to keep him company. He developed a disciplined work ethic early on as a young caddy at Belmont Golf Club. Up before sunrise, he would often caddy two 18 hole rounds each day, earning a modest wage, which he would always share with his mother and save to use for the things he wanted.
In his early years, Clyde was known for being industrious, resourceful, and full of charm. As boys, he and his older brother Glay were especially drawn to the vibrant oranges and grapefruits growing in the yard of a property near the Belmont Golf Club. Although the owner didn’t permit anyone to pick the fruit, that didn’t stop them from making their way to those tempting trees. Unfortunately for them, they weren’t the only ones in the yard. The owner kept a spirited flock of geese. As you can imagine, Clyde and Glay were often seen sprinting away from their feathery pursuers, creating stories that would later be passed on to Katrina during her regular daddy daughter drives.
Clyde loved limitlessly. His devotion to family, friends, and to the community knew no boundaries. To be loved by Clyde was to feel supported and understood, as well as deeply valued. Clyde met the love of his life, Dawn, in 1969 at the wedding of Dawn’s cousin Ellsworth. Dawn remembers Clyde confidently asking her to dance, and then for her number – bold moves that clearly worked. Dawn remembers wearing a green crocheted dress (she’s quite sure she made it herself).
During their courtship Clyde would ride his Mobylette to visit Dawn, zipping across the island with purpose and, no doubt, determination. On August 26, 1973 they took their commitment to each other to the next level and were married at Bethel AME Church, the Smith family church. They went on to build a life together centered around love, family, and faith.
The union of Clyde and Dawn was blessed by the addition of Katrina and Clyde Jr (“CJ”). Clyde, Dawn, and Katrina first made their home together on Ord Road in Warwick. From there, they moved to Bridle Hill in Smith’s Parish, settling into their beloved homestead, “Darrellton,” where CJ was born. It was more than a house; it was a place filled with love and some of the best memories.
Clyde was an immensely proud father who took a genuine interest in every part of Katrina and CJ’s lives, from their families to their careers. Clyde enjoyed his talks with Katrina about her work. With CJ, he was equally curious often picking his brain about what the legal world in London was like. With a father’s steady reassurance, Clyde would remind CJ often that no matter where life took him, there would always be a home waiting for him and his family in Bermuda.
With his children, Clyde was always eager to talk, to listen, and to share thoughtful advice which was always sprinkled with wisdom. He respected his children’s views, supported their choices, and always made it clear to them that he always had their backs.
His strong work ethic, now reflected in both Katrina and CJ, was a lasting gift Clyde passed on. One of Clyde’s greatest expressions of love was his role as a provider, a role he embraced with strength and commitment. Clyde’s dedication gave his children opportunities that were created through sacrifice and perseverance without complaint or need for recognition. To his children, he will always be remembered and cherished for providing them unconditional support and encouragement.
One of Clyde’s proudest moments as a father was when his daughter, Katrina, was promoted to Chief Operations Officer, a role that closely mirrored his own as Resident Manager at Grotto Bay. He beamed with pride knowing that she was walking a path so familiar to his, one that demanded dedication, leadership, and a steady hand behind the scene. The two would often share stories, insights, and laughs about the unique challenges of running a business, from managing people and solving problems to ensuring everything ran like clockwork. Clyde found great joy in these exchanges, and even greater pride in seeing his daughter carry forward the very values he had always lived by.
Another one of Clyde’s proudest moments as a father was seeing CJ called to the Bar of England and Wales an occasion which, according to Clyde, made him proud to be able to call his only son a lawyer. When Clyde and Dawn travelled to the UK to celebrate CJ’s call to the Bar and to meet his then girlfriend Lisa, the four visited Rome for some family time where one day they rode the metro to see Rome’s famous “Spanish Steps”. Wearing his favourite wide-leg Dickies jeans with oversized front pockets, before leaving the hotel, Clyde confidently refused Dawn’s offer to keep his wallet in her bag. “No no, I’ll be fine,” he said, sliding his wallet into his pocket. As they travelled on the metro together, some young girls had brushed alongside him before abruptly departing at the next stop, all to the confusion of Clyde. Unbeknown to him though, these young girls were up to no good. Anyone who knew Clyde knew that he had a PhD in doing things his way but on this family trip he learned that not only should he have listened to Dawn, but also that his wide-legged Dickies jeans were not the safest place to keep a wallet on the metro in a foreign country.
His reaction when realising what had really happened was to cry out in his Bermudian accent in the middle of the metro station: “Dawn, I’ve been robbed…those girls got me!” - a moment subsequently retold over the years with laughter by Clyde, Dawn, CJ, and Lisa.
Clyde’s ability to generate humorous moments like this (whether on purpose or not) was as enduring as his generosity. Clyde had expected Rome to treat its tourists with the same warmth and courtesy he believed visitors deserved. But Rome had something else to offer that day: a sharp reminder to never let your guard down, especially when your wallet’s riding front row in oversized denim.
Clyde’s career in hospitality spanned decades, culminating in his role as Resident Manager of one of Bermuda’s few Bermudian-owned hotels, Grotto Bay Beach Resort. His commitment to excellence led him to further his studies in New York and travel frequently for work, proudly representing Bermuda across cities like New York, Boston, Toronto, and Philadelphia - always in Bermuda shorts, even when the winter months abroad brought very cold temperatures and sometimes even snow. On many occasions when Clyde was getting ready for work, Dawn would say “Clyde let me pick out your clothes today”. After coming home from work, he would beam with excitement because the staff at Grotto Bay would say to him “I know who dressed you today”.
Famously known as one of Bermuda’s best Tourism Ambassador’s, to visitors and colleagues alike, Clyde was known for his warmth and for the energy and exuberance he gave to his job and his career. He was a genuine mentor to many in the hospitality industry with many crediting him for guiding and assisting them during the early stages of their careers.
Clyde loved starting his day with the same routine. Before heading to work at Grotto Bay, he would often stop at Specialty Inn Restaurant on Collectors Hill where he would enjoy a quick bite and read the daily newspaper. It was his way of greeting the day with a moment of calm. Even after retiring, he continued to frequent the restaurant from time to time, drawn back by the comfort of tradition and the friendly faces that knew him well.
Clyde was also highly engaged and a dedicated community member, with active involvement in numerous influential organizations. His affiliations included the Freemasonry Bermuda Garrison Lodge No. 580 GRI, the Bermuda Football Association, the PHC Commercial League, the Liquor License Board, the Hotel Association, the Warwick Workman’s Club, and the Bermuda Regiment - each reflecting his commitment to civic duty, leadership, and the betterment of society.
A passionate sportsman in his younger years, Clyde was a goalkeeper for the Pembroke Hamilton Club (PHC) commercial team. Even when he was no longer a player for the team, he remained a devoted PHC football supporter. Golf was another love of Clyde’s being known for his “soft hands” around the greens. The finesse with which he played the game was often what he was recognized for.
Clyde found tremendous joy being Papa to Josiah, Anaiah, Aaria, and Aiden. This was a role he cherished deeply and one that brought him endless pride. He loved spending time with each of his grandchildren, whether in person or over video calls. Even when the video camera pointed more at his feet than his face, his joy in connecting with them never wavered. His frequent mispronunciationsespecially of Aaria’s name - became a running family joke, always met with laughter, patience, and love.
It was a regular occurrence for Anaiah to spend time with Papa, at Nana and Papa’s house, so much so that Katrina would often joke, “You might as well set up a room for Anaiah; she practically lives there!” The close bond Anaiah shared with her Papa was truly special. Whether they were playing cards or she was taking control of the TV and changing whatever he was watching, their connection was unmistakable and filled with love, laughter, and a sense of comfort that only comes from family.
Clyde lit up whenever CJ or Lisa sent photos in the family WhatsApp chat, eager to see what Aaria and Aiden were up to. Whether it was a school event, a funny moment, or a simple everyday snapshot, he was genuinely thrilled to stay connected and never missed a chance to comment or ask CJ and Lisa for more updates. Even though Aaria and Aiden were miles away, he felt close to
them through every shared moment. The same deep pride and enthusiasm extended to Josiah, another one of Clyde’s biggest joys. He was always eager to hear how Josiah was doing in college in London, especially curious about his latest art and design projects. What made it even more meaningful to Clyde was knowing that Josiah shared the artistic talent of his late father, Lawson Darrell. This was a connection that filled Clyde’s heart with both pride and tender remembrance. To his grandchildren, Clyde was both a source of comfort and endless smiles always reminding them that Papa loved them dearly.
Before retiring, Clyde made it his personal mission to create lasting memories through family holidays - even if it meant stepping away from the job he loved. One of his most cherished trips was to Disney World, where he delighted in simply being surrounded by his loved ones, laughter, and a bit of magic. For Clyde, those moments of togetherness were everything.
In his later years, Clyde found great joy in the simple beauty of his surroundings. Whether it be simply just sitting outside and enjoying the solitude the neighbourhood and his yard provided, these were the moments that he loved. Often times he would walk around the house to look at the pineapples Dawn was growing to make sure they were growing nicely. He loved to eat them when they were ripe and ready, commenting how sweet they were just like his sweet wife. Clyde also delighted in the thriving loquat trees at the family home, proudly inviting his siblings over to pick the traditional Bermuda golden fruit. It was a small tradition rooted in gratitude – a celebration of nature, family, and the life he had built. During Christmas, Clyde’s love for poinsettias ensured that he always purchased some to have in the house, always red but often various sizes. Interestingly, he always “forgot” they needed to be watered to stay alive. Thankfully through the love and keen eye of Dawn, they were watered regularly, with the Christmas 2024 poinsettias lasting all the way until June 2025. This was one of the many quiet gestures that reflected the care Dawn always gave to the things Clyde cherished the most.
Around the house, Clyde also found comfort in the quiet support of his son-in-law, Nathan. When it came to fixing things, even things as small as the mysterious cases of the TV settings suddenly changing, Clyde happily leaned on Nathan. Handy work wasn’t exactly Clyde’s forte, but Nathan was always just a call away and ready to help with patience and a smile. Their quiet bond was built on mutual respect, and Clyde took comfort in knowing he could always count on Nathan to sort things out.
Although Clyde’s family was his everything, Dawn fondly recalls how Clyde also loved hot peppers with apple cider vinegar, which was more than a favourite. It was a piece of Clyde’s soul - a quiet tradition, always there. Clyde kept his bottle of hot peppers close, especially for his soup! Without fail, Dawn would top it up with more vinegar, making sure it was just how Clyde liked it. The bottle of hot peppers still sits on the kitchen table - a small, fiery symbol of his presence, his warmth, and the legacy he leaves behind.
Clyde was also known as having a legendary sweet tooth. He savoured rum and raisin ice cream, Bird’s Eye custard, coconut desserts, and fruit punch. When dining out, he was known to ask for a “light red wine”, always selecting a Pinot Noir. A fine steak and good company made for his perfect meal. Clyde was also very observant of the level of service he received during his dining experiences. He would often say “I am a hotel man - I know what good service is”. One thing for certain, good service is something he always made sure he got.
Clyde’s proudest accomplishments were not material. They were the family he raised with Dawn, the opportunities he created for his children, and the love he shared with his grandchildren. His greatest joy came when his family was together - happy, healthy, and close.
Although known as a true Ambassador professionally, to those close to him, Clyde’s legacy is that of a true family man - selfless, loving, kind and deeply committed to those he loved. His presence lit up every room he entered. His kindness, laughter, and spirit will echo in the lives of all who knew him. As one of life’s true gentlemen, he was, in his own words, “quite a fella.”
Clyde is survived by his beloved wife: Dawn, his children: Katrina (Nathan) and Clyde Jr. (Lisa), his cherished grandchildren: Josiah, Anaiah, Aaria, and Aiden, his siblings: Jeanette Baker, Laura Franklin, Sheldon ‘Boozer’ Darrell, Heather Darrell, Suzanne (William) Rackley, Pamela Adams, and Jearmain Thomas; aunt: Illys Richardson; nephews: Wayne (Sheila) Darrell, Valdez Darrell, DeUntay (Shereika) Darrell, Kanhai ‘Jimpsey’ Darrell, Billy (Elin) Rackley, Joey (Susan) Rackley, Calvin Thomas Jr, Craig (Monique) Bridgewater, Kyle Bridgewater, Vincent Jr (Felicia) Minors, Antoine (Jessica) Minors, Jovon Minors, Eric (Kornelia) Leverock, Troy Jr., Arshaun, and Jaiden Anderson; nieces: Roslyn Miller, Karen Darrell, Tellay Butterfield, Doreen Darrell, LaTusha Bremar, Sharon Maybury, Zalika Leverock, Nicole and Natalea Anderson; sisters-in-law: Marva Bridgewater and Waverley (Vincent Sr) Minors; brother-in-law: Troy (Olga) Anderson; as well as a host of relatives and friends who will forever carry his memory in their hearts.
Clyde was predeceased by his parents: Lawson and Eileen Darrell; his brother: Gladwin Darrell; nieces: Stacey Adams and Fredrina Darrell; nephew: Benson Hodgson; brothers-in-law: Victor Bridgewater, Wendell Leverock, Calvin Thomas, and George Baker.
A TRIBUTE TO MY DADDY
There are no words that can fully capture and articulate the depth of love I have for my daddy, or the weight of the loss I feel standing here today. He was my safe place, my anchor in storms, my greatest cheerleader, my constant. I was, and always will be, a daddy’s girl, even now, as a grown woman who still looked to him for strength, wisdom, and unconditional love. Yes, my heart is completely shattered, but it overflows with gratitude for the love he gave me so freely, the times we shared, the conversations we had, and the steady presence he was in my life.
I inherited a lot of things from my dad, but as you can clearly see here today, height was not one of them. CJ got all of Dad’s height, but what I did inherit was far more meaningful - his strength, his resilience, his heart. Some things, like the hereditary condition we shared, I might’ve gladly left behind, but even that brought us closer than we already were. It gave us a shared experience that deepened our bond in a way few others could understand. We faced challenges together, and through them, I saw the quiet determination that defined my father. His ability to keep going, to endure, to show up with love and grace no matter what, that’s what stays with me the most. That’s the part of him I carry.
For as long as I can remember, no matter where I went, someone would stop me and say, “You’re Clyde Darrell’s daughter, aren’t you?” In an island as small as Bermuda, that might not seem surprising, but the frequency of it was something else entirely. I think it’s part of why I stayed on the straight and narrow growing up. There was no way I could get away with anything when so many people knew exactly whose child I was. They didn’t just recognize me because I looked like him, they saw him in me. What made those moments truly special was how
his face would light up with pride every single time I told him about those occasions someone stopped me and asked, “are you Clyde Darrell’s daughter”.
One thing was certain, my dad loved us relentlessly. My mom, CJ, Josiah, Anaiah, Nathan, Aaria, Aiden, Lisa, and I meant the world to him, however the love he had for my mom was something special. Yes, they got on each other’s nerves at times, but she was his heart, and their bond grounded everything else in his life. In a very recent conversation, I had with my dad, he said, “Katrina, I love your mother so much.” Now, mind you, she had just got on his nerves, but in that moment, and in his eyes, I really felt it. Of course, God knew that would be the last time I’d hear my dad express his love for my mom, but I am so grateful we had that moment. Mom, just know that Daddy loved you immensely. Let that love comfort you as we navigate the pain of living life without him, and know that CJ and I have got you, we’re here for you, always.
Our happiness was everything to my dad. He always wanted to protect us, even when I reminded him, he couldn’t shield us from everything. But if we were good, he was good. I’ll never forget how he always seemed to know when something was weighing heavily on me. Even if I hadn’t said a word, he could sense it. Later, he’d call me on the phone and say, “Trina, I feel like something’s wrong.” He genuinely wanted to understand. He wanted to be there, and when we talked, he didn’t just offer comforting words; he wanted to fix it, to lift the weight from my shoulders and carry it himself if he could.
My dad was also a great provider. To him, ensuring that we didn’t go without was one of his love languages. While this often kept him busy and committed to his career at Grotto Bay, it came from a place of deep love, care, and responsibility. I was so glad that when he retired, he had more time to spend with us, especially his grandchildren, who held such a special place in his heart. I used to joke with him and say, “Cheesh Daddy, I feel like you love Anaiah more than you love me,” because I quickly became chop suey whenever she was around. But that’s who he was. He poured love into each of his grandkidsJosiah, Anaiah, Aaria, and Aiden, and they will forever hold loving memories of him.
In today’s world of technology, I’ve had to give myself grace for not capturing every moment I shared with my dad, or every moment he shared with Josiah and his Anaiah. But when I put things into perspective, I’m comforted by the fact that those moments are etched in my heart. They weren’t always captured on camera because we were present. We were living, and that’s what he taught me, that the most beautiful memories are often the ones you didn’t stop to pose for. Those memories will carry me through this difficult time.
Some of the great memories I’ll never forget are the drives we’d take, often starting at one end of the island and going all the way to the other. We’d frequently stop for his favorite - rum and raisin ice cream. He’d smile and say, “Don’t tell your mom I had ice cream,” and I’d grin back, “Okay, Daddy.” But I was loyal to both of them, so I always ended up telling her anyway. I’ll always remember the stories he told me during our drives, like the time he was on his way to see my mom up Knapton Hill in their dating days and got caught by the police. He didn’t want to miss the date, so he gave “the man” chase, losing them around a curve on his mobylette, which he proudly declared was very fast. He beamed with pride when he told that story.
Another great memory forever etched in my heart is from my gym days when I was a little girl attending Harrington Sound Primary school. He would call out my gym uniform number, 127 and say, “number 127, jump!” I would leap into his arms as he tossed me into the air to catch me. That joy, that moment, that feeling I’ve carried with me ever since. As I grew older, it was that same warmth and playfulness that came through when he called me. I always knew what kind of call it was just by the tone of his voice. If he began with, “Hello, my beautiful daughter,” I knew it was one of those “Daddy wants something” calls. I’d say, “Yes Daddy, I know you want something.” But if he started with “Katrinaaaa,” I knew it was a “just checking in” call. I miss those calls tremendously and I will always long to hear his voice just one more time.
The amount of kind sentiments we’ve received since his passing has truly been a testament to who he was. While most people knew the professional Clyde Darrell, to us he was husband, Daddy, Grandfather, father-in-law, and someone we loved with all our hearts. As my heart aches, I am comforted by knowing that
God is still God, and He knows what’s best. I may not understand His timing, but I trust His will.
Daddy, thank you, from the depths of my heart, for your love and for everything you’ve poured into me and into our family. Your legacy will live on in each of us forever. I love you Daddy!
Love Always, Your Daughter Katrina
