Genesta O'Mara Funeral Program

A Celebration of Life November 1, 1924 - July 21, 2025

Genesta

’ O Mara

A Celebration of Life Honouring

Alice Genesta Dillas O’Mara Saturday, August 9, 2025 | 2:00pm

The Salvation Army North Street Citadel Hamilton, Bermuda

Officiants

Captain Alfred Esdaille | Corps Officer North Street Citadel and Bermuda Area Commander Captain Cathy Esdaille | Corps Officer North Street Citadel Pastor Patrick O’Mara | Orlando, Florida (Brother of Genesta) Musical Prelude...........................The Salvation Army United Band | Allana Simons (Family friend) Processional.................................................................................................. Clergy & Family Welcome.............................................................................................. Captain Alfred Esdaille Opening Song (When the Roll is Called Up Yonder)............................... Captain Alfred Esdaille Opening Prayer................................................................................... Captain Cathy Esdaille Musical Selection.................................................................... The Salvation Army United Band Scriptures Books of the Old and New Testament Recitation................ Matteo Ramabuke (Great Nephew) Old Testament: Revelation 21:1-4..............................................Ronnie Burgess (Family friend) New Testament: 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18............................... Arianna O’Mara (Granddaughter) Video Tribute................................................................................ Leonard O’Mara (Nephew) Obituary...............................................................................................Marsha Henry (Niece) Musical Tribute.......................................................Allana Simons/Tamiko Ramabuke (Niece) Eulogy.................................................................................... Pastor Patrick O’Mara (Brother) Vocal Tribute...................................................................................... Nathan Ming (Nephew) Closing Prayer..................................................................................... Captain Alfred Esdaille Closing Song (Because He Lives)........................................................... Captain Cathy Esdaille Recessional................................................................................................... Clergy & Family Interment St. Paul’s Anglican Church,

69 Middle Road, Paget, Bermuda

Tributes of Love I am honoured to pay a tribute to my sister Genesta.

I called her Nesta for short. She was a very loving and giving person always ready to put something in your bag to take home.

She followed Ma, our grandma who used to make our petticoats etc. with the bags that flour used to come in, after bleaching and boiling.

After she passed, Nesta having been taught by her, stepped in. I remember a dress she made for me. It was a red and white checkered dress. I cried and cried because I didn’t want to wear this dress because it was red and didn’t think it complemented my dark complexion (and to this day I don’t like to wear red), you see I came up in an era, when skin colour made a difference.

She was a good dressmaker. Very good with her hands. Another thing I remember about my sister, is that when she bought for Roland, she also included Patrick (her younger brother). When my mother worked late, we didn’t have to hang around and wait for her to come home, Nesta stepped in and fed us. She was a very tidy person. She had a place for everything and everything in its place. Her bureau drawers were always neat, she knew were everything was and could direct you from her bed. Thanks to her I am the same.

I will truly miss her. Rest in Peace Nesta. Lovingly sumbmitted by Sheila Ming.

In Loving Memory of My Mother-In-Law | Sunrise: November 1, 1924 - Sunset: July 21, 2025 Today, as we say goodbye, I reflect on the incredible woman you were. To me, you weren’t just a mother-in-law—you became a mother, a guide, and a quiet strength in my life. From the A Heart So Kind moment I married Calvin, you accepted me and loved me like your own, filling a space in my Your hands once held us, heart that had been empty since I lost my mother as a child.

Your love still does.

Though you’ve gone ahead, You were more than just family—you were a legend in your own right. A true warrior. A fallen soldier. God truly blessed us by lending you to us for over a century. 100 years of life, Your legacy stays with us. love, wisdom, and grace—that’s nothing short of extraordinary. You lived your life with quiet In every kind word, strength and a kind heart. You were always ready to share your wisdom, to offer a gentle word, In each gentle touch, or lend a helping hand. Your presence brought peace. Your words carried weight. And your We remember you always, heart—so full of love—touched every person lucky enough to know you.

And miss you so much.

You didn’t just raise your own family—you nurtured ours. You embraced my children with open Love. arms, and you never treated my firstborn son, Vernon, any differently. That kind of love— Jennifer O’Mara unconditional and generous—doesn’t come around often. You were “Grandma” to all of them, and they felt it deeply. (daughter-in-law) Even though we had you for so long, it still hurts to let go. It’s never easy to say goodbye to someone who meant so much to so many. But I know your body was tired, and your spirit was ready. I take comfort in knowing that you’re no longer in pain—that your journey continues in peace and light.

So today, I don’t just mourn your passing—I celebrate your life. A life well-lived. A woman well-loved. I carry your memory in my heart, and I promise to honor the lessons you taught me: to love without condition, to lead with grace, and to live with kindness.

Until we meet again on that glorious day when Jesus comes to gather His beloved, I’ll hold your memory close. I love you, Grandma.

Rest easy—and peace out, just like you’d say. “Well done, thou good and faithful servant… enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” — Matthew 25:21 (KJV) Our tribute for Aunt Genesta Aunt Genesta has always been a cherished presence in my life. She had a special love for the children in our family, often creating crocheted or knitted pieces for us. Inspired by her example, I learned how to crochet and enjoyed doing it during my high school and college years.

She often visited us in America for special occasions, and I enjoyed those times with her. We’re so grateful that Lloyd had the chance to meet her and that we were able to celebrate her 100th birthday together in Bermuda in November 2024.

Aunt Genesta lived a long, remarkable life, witnessing many generations grow. She was truly a gem, and will be deeply missed.

Marsha and Lloyd Henry, Washington, D.C. USA Tribute to my sister Genesta We affectionally called her Nesta. One of many vivid memories that I have of my sister (who was 12 years older) is how she looked after me while our mother was at work. Back then I had really thick hair and Nesta decided she would straighten it to make it easier to comb. When my mom got home, she told her off! She was so annoyed, but I was so happy with my new manageable style which lengthened my curly hair.

Nesta even put bows at the end of my plaits which came past my neck, so I could shake my head all day long and feel like a princess! Nesta taught me how to sew, crochet and knit, and also how to cook – no recipes – all in her head just like our mother - just a pinch here and an ingredient there, which are skills that I still use today. I am so grateful for her guidance over the years. I will treasure every moment that we shared.

Lovingly remembered by Freda Black An Aunt who always cared Aunt Genesta, Although you are no longer here, you will never be forgotten. I just wanted to let you know how much I appreciated you. You meant the world to me and my family. Only a heart so dear as yours would give so unselfishly. The many things you’ve done, all the times that you were there lets me know deep down inside how much you really cared. When we’ve talked and laughed, I’ve always let you know how much we appreciated you.

You would say, “Keep in touch.” I would say, “I love you.” We are really grateful for the time we’ve shared.

Rest now Auntie. Safe in His arms. We dedicate this song to you, “Well done” by Deitrick Haddon Lovingly submitted by Andrea, Cornell, Denika, Dean, Deon, Deonae, Antonio (Quinny), Troy, and great, great granddaughter Quinn, says mee too.

Tribute to Aunt and Great-Aunt Nesta Today, we gather with full hearts to celebrate the beautiful life of our beloved Aunt and Great-Aunt Nesta, who blessed us with 100 years and 8 months of love, wisdom, and kindness.

I will always remember traveling as a child and how, while working at the airport food catering service, she would make special meals just for me. That was her way, quietly giving, always caring, and making me feel so loved.

Attiyah and Ajari cherished the times they spent with their Great-Aunt, sitting close and listening to her wonderful stories. Those memories will stay with them forever and continue to bring them comfort.

Though we will miss her deeply, we take peace in knowing that her legacy lives on through the faith she shared, the family she nurtured, and the compassion she gave so freely.

Rest peacefully, Auntie. Your light will forever shine in our hearts.

Lovingly submitted by E-Rika, Attiyah, and Ajari Morris A Tribute to Our Beloved Grandmother Today, we celebrate the extraordinary life of our grandmother, who blessed us with 100 years and 8 incredible months of love, laughter, and unforgettable memories.

Grandma had a way of turning the simplest things into lifelong comforts. Her favorites—Digestive biscuits and ginger ale—were always within reach, and there were always a few telltale crumbs in her bed to prove it. That was just Grandma: easygoing, content, and full of quiet joy. But don’t be fooled—she had some spice! Grandma did not play, and she did not like naughty kids.

Mr. Brownie and Mr. Blacky were always close by.

Though she had a certain strictness, she let us kids run wild in the best ways. There were times she’d hand us salt and send us outside to kill slugs like we were on some grand adventure. She hated slugs—so of course we had to make sure they were gone. She let us watch whatever we wanted on TV—even Jerry Springer—but when The Young and the Restless or Guiding Light came on, the remote was hers. No questions asked. Those were her sacred stories. And Victor Newman? He was her favorite.

There were so many memories at Grandma’s, and her house was always full of life—laughter in every room, cousins running through the halls, and the smell of something delicious always in the air.

In the early days, Grandma would travel with us to see Mickey Mouse—creating magical memories that made our childhoods feel like fairy tales. And when we hit those theme parks, she was the top stroller pusher around—fast, focused, and fearless. You best get out of her way!

Royale remembers whenever I stayed with Grandma during school breaks, she would let me help her bake in the kitchen. Those moments meant the world to her—and to me. She was so proud when I went off to The Culinary Institute of America to study baking, knowing that something we had shared together had grown into something more. That love for baking became my passion, which led me to work as a chef at Southampton Princess—where she would sometimes stop by for a bite.

She lived a full, rich life. We are better because we knew her, loved her, and were loved by her. You’ve earned your peace. And if heaven has ginger ale and a comfy bed with crumbs, we know you’re right at home.

Rest easy, “Sweetheart.” With love, Crystal and Royale Tribute To My Sister According to the United Nations projections, living to 100 is still a rare feat globally. Less than 0.01 percent of the global population, which is around 8.2 billion live to be 100. To put it in real figures, the world is home to an estimated 722,000 centenarians. So my sister joined an exclusive group. Although she lived passed her 100 years and we had her for a long time, yet we feel deeply our loss. She was such a stabilizing force in the family. Someone we could count on.

Although she was not my mother, she was motherly to me all my life. Always interested in my family, their welfare, their wellbeing.

“How are your children doing?”, naming them one by one. “How is Madge coming along; I’m coming to visit you all one of these days.”

Well, she visited us one time when we lived in Pennsylvania. However, she knew them well because they spent six and a half years living in Bermuda. When I would visit home, I would never leave Bermuda without some goodies from her. “Put this in your suitcase“, she’d insist.

Among her many interests, she was an avid Yankee baseball fan. While we don’t welcome this time in our family, we can take solace that she lived a full life as a child of God. We await the call of the Life Giver when she will rise again and never grow old.

Lovingly submitted by Pastor Patrick O’Mara, Orlando, Florida A Daughter’s Tribute Momma… where would I be—Lord, where would I be—without my momma? It’s hard to put into words just how much she meant to me. She was one of the kindest, most loving, and selfless people I’ve ever known, always putting her children before herself. Without her guidance, I wouldn’t be the woman I am today.

She made sure I had everything I needed growing up—cooking and baking my favorite meals, sewing countless outfits with love, even buying me my first bike at sixteen. These were just a few of the many ways she showed her care.

As her only daughter, we shared a bond that was truly unbreakable. When the time came for me to care for her, she would often thank me. I’d gently remind her, “Mom, you don’t have to thank me—you cared for me so well. Now it’s my turn.” She would smile, and that smile meant everything.

There’s so much more I could say—it would fill a book. My best friend was my momma. I thank the Lord for the mother He gave me and for all the sacrifices she made for her children and our family.

My momma, my queen—there are no goodbyes. Wherever I am, and wherever you are, you’ll always be in my heart.

I miss you deeply.

Continue to sleep in peace, my beautiful momma. Submitted with love by Carlena

Tributes of Love continued *In Loving Memory of Ms. O’Mara*

Ms. O’Mara embraced me with kindness and love from the moment I was brought into the family. Her warmth made every visit feel special, and her stories always lit up the room.

After celebrating her 100th birthday during the day, I spent a cherished evening with her at Aunt Freda Black’s house. She spoke endlessly—about my mom’s beautiful sewing, family traditions, and her tried-and-true home remedies. One favorite was her “match me if you can” leaves for knee pain, and of course, the famous raw potato cure for headaches.

Although I didn’t see her again after that night, her sweet voice and spirited wisdom are forever etched in my heart. She now rests peacefully, reunited with her loved ones—including my dear siblings, Carol-Ann and Ervin.

“In my Father’s house are many rooms… I go to prepare a place for you.” — John 14:2 Lovingly submitted by her special granddaughter, Gladwina O’Mara To Carlena and family, Both Major Cathy and I wanted to write and pass along our heartfelt condolences to all of you. Aunt Genesta was a soldier of Jesus who has been Promoted to Glory and has heard the trumpet call. Her faith and trust was in her Lord and Saviour. We take comfort in the words of Paul: “Absent from the body...present with the Lord.”

Aunt Genesta always made us feel at home in her room as we sang songs, read scripture and shared in prayer. She always made us laugh when after only 5 minutes she would say “Thank you for coming.”

It is truly impossible in my mind to sum up the life of a lovely lady who saw over 100 years of life. We rejoice today in knowing the she has heard the words from Jesus: “Well done thou good and faithful servant.”

Though the miles separate us today please know that all of you have been in our thoughts and prayers. Underneath you each one are the loving arms of God. May His peace and presence bring you comfort.

Majors Darryl and Cathy Simms, Corps Officers – Halifax West Community Church, Nova Scotia, Canada A mother figure she was It is with deep sadness that we mourn the loss of another “mother figure”, Genesta O’Mara. She was there when our family needed her.

Our Mom could always depend on Aunt Genesta to be there to help out while having her babies during the 1940’s and 1950’s. She saw that we were cared for, fed and disciplined when needed. Her kindness and the card she gave us helped to make us the persons we are today.

Mom and Aunt Genesta were great friends and remained that way until Mom’s death in 1988. The Lathan children did their best to keep in contact with her over the years and would often visit, call, send flowers and give money. We wanted her to know that she was well thought of and we really appreciated all she did for us.

On behalf of the Lefroy and Fredericka Lathan Family, I want to express our deepest sympathy on the passing of your dear mother. She was a true and loyal friend to the family. We will always remember with admiration, her compassion, kindness, and love. We look forward to seeing her in the New World, when sickness, old age and death will be no more.

Lovingly submitted by Althea Belloguet (nee Lathan) Tribute for Aunt Genesta Aunt Genesta was like a 2nd grandmother to me. She was all about family. Every time I spoke to her over the years, she wanted pictures of my children, Janelle and Tatyana, and more recently she wanted pictures of my grandchildren. She was very loving, kind and caring. I will miss her dearly.

Brandon O’Mara, Toronto, Canada

When the Roll Is Called Up Yonder Song by James M. Black, 1893

1. When the trumpet of the Lord shall sound, and time shall be no more, And the morning breaks, eternal, bright and fair; When the saved of earth shall gather over on the other shore, And the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there. o Refrain:

When the roll is called up yonder, When the roll is called up yonder, When the roll is called up yonder, When the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there.

2. On that bright and cloudless morning when the dead in Christ shall rise, And the glory of His resurrection share; When His chosen ones shall gather to their home beyond the skies, And the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there.

3. Let us labor for the Master from the dawn till setting sun, Let us talk of all His wondrous love and care; Then when all of life is over, and our work on earth is done,

Because He Lives

Song by Bill & Gloria Gaither God sent His son, they called Him, Jesus; He came to love, heal and forgive; He lived and died to buy my pardon, An empty grave is there to prove my Savior lives!

Chorus Because He lives, I can face tomorrow, Because He lives, all fear is gone; Because I know He holds the future, And life is worth the living, Just because He lives!

How sweet to hold a newborn baby, And feel the pride and joy he brings; But greater still the calm assurance: This child can face uncertain days because He Lives!

Chorus Because He lives, I can face tomorrow, Because He lives, all fear is gone; Because I know He holds the future, And life is worth the living, Just because He lives!

And then one day, I’ll cross the river, I’ll fight life’s final war with pain; And then, as death gives way to victory, I’ll see the lights of glory and I’ll know He lives!

Chorus Because He lives, I can face tomorrow, Because He lives, all fear is gone; Because I know He holds the future, And life is worth the living,

Remembering Genesta

Alice Genesta Dillas O’Mara lovingly known to many as “Nesta,” was born on November 1, 1924, the eldest child of Ruth O’Mara. She began her education at age seven, as was customary at the time, attending Central School—now known as Victor Scott Primary.

From a young age, Genesta had a love for the kitchen. Cooking was a constant throughout her life. Her first and only known formal job after leaving school was at the renowned Four Ways Inn, where she worked alongside Dorothy Wilson, who fondly remembered her as a kind and pleasant co-worker. Later, she found her calling at the airport, back when full meals were served on flights—not just snacks. Her specialty was preparing beautifully arranged salad plates etc. She was known for providing personalized food trays for her traveling family. Airline stewards would seek them out mid-flight to deliver her lovingly made meals.

She continued working at the airport until her retirement.

An avid traveler, Genesta visited Canada, the United States, and several islands in the West Indies. One of her most memorable journeys was to Sint Eustatius (Statia), a small Dutch Caribbean island northwest of St. Kitts. She traveled there with her son Wendell to reconnect with their roots and meet family—including a great aunt who lived to be 101. Wendell’s passion for travel led him to become one of Bermuda’s first commercial pilots for United Airlines, a source of great pride for Genesta. In Bermuda, Genesta looked forward to family gatherings at son Malcolm and May’s home throughout the year.

Her spiritual life was rooted Jesus through The Salvation Army, beginning at the Hamilton Citadel on Court Street. She actively participated in Sunday School, the Guards (now Girl Guides), and later became a dedicated member of the Home League at the Newlands Corps. There, she was instrumental in organizing social events for the Boy Scouts and other community initiatives.

Genesta also contributed to the Salvation Army’s Home League recipe booklet, A Kitchen Affair, submitting her cherished “Baked Custard” and “Apple with Cheese Pie” recipes under the leadership of then-Lieutenant Sharon Wilson (now Major).

Genesta’s caring spirit had no boundaries. When her nephew Sheridan lost his Godmother unexpectedly, she stepped in without hesitation, becoming his Godmother and offering the same love and support she gave so freely to others. She helped raise her grandchildren Carol-Ann and Ervin and later embraced their children and great-grandchildren with equal devotion.

The family home on 15 Ariel View Lane in Devonshire was filled with love, legacy, and the rich aroma of home-cooked meals.

Genesta passed down her passion for cooking to her children, teaching each of them their way around the kitchen. Calvin was known for his BBQ chicken, Carlena baking, and Malcolm the undisputed king of rice dishes. Granddaughter Carol-Ann became a professional chef, and Grandson Royale took his skills overseas as the chef for the Bermuda Regiment.

Even at 100 years old, Genesta’s mind remained sharp where she completed word-fill puzzle books with ease, stayed up to date with local and global news through the Royal Gazette, delivered daily by her son Roland, and still requested wool for crocheting and knitting as recently as this past May. She treasured regular phone conversations with dear friends Marion, Gladys, Hewlett, Lois, Wenona and so many others. If Genesta had your number memorized, you were sure to receive a surprise phone call from her. She knew the words to hymns in the Salvation Army songbook and could still out-sing the family. She was the keeper of family stories, able to recall history in vivid detail, making her the heart and historian of the O’Mara family. In her later years, Genesta was lovingly cared for at home by her only daughter Carlena, with support from Roland. Her daughter-in-law Jennifer also gave devoted care, visiting weekly after work and on weekends, often keeping Genesta company until Carlena returned home.

On Monday, July 21 st, 2025, in her 101 st year, Genesta was peacefully promoted to glory at home, surrounded by love.

She is lovingly remembered by:

Children Roland, Malcolm, Winton, and Carlena O’Mara.

Daughters-in-law May and Jennifer O’Mara.

Siblings Sheila Ming, Freda Black, and Pastor Patrick O’Mara.

Grandchildren Arianna, Royale, Crystal, Jecal, and Callisa O’Mara.

Special Grandchildren Gladwina O’Mara, Owen Millett, Vernon Wears Jr Great-Grandchildren Jerome, Jahkai, Kavone, Royce, Jerrah, Jezori, Jélin, Cani, Mahkeé, Dayce.

Great-Great-Grandchildren Armani, Kaiser, Noah, and Delijah.

A host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends—too many to name, but each are deeply cherished.

She was predeceased by her grandparents Helena Jane (Place) O’Mara and William L.B. O’Mara, her beloved mother Ruth O’Mara, sons Calvin “Puddin” and Wendell O’Mara, brothers Clarence and Dunn O’Mara, sisters-in-law Mary and Marjorie O’Mara, brothers-in-law Vivian Ming and Elmore “Turp” Black, grandchildren Carol-Ann Bailey and Ervin O’Mara, and Goddaughter Inez Mason.

Pallbearers

Sheridan Ming (Nephew/Godson) Nathan Ming (Nephew) Curtis Smith (Family Friend) Jerome Bailey (Great Grandson) Kavone Hodsoll O’Mara (Great Grandson) Jeffrey O’Mara (Nephew)

Acknowledgements

The O’Mara family wishes to thank: Leon Amis & the staff of Amis Memorial Chapel The Salvation Army North Street Citadel Family The Salvation Army United Band Allana Simons pianist/vocalist Majors Darryl and Cathy Simms Dr. Stephen Sterwin & staff Tina Durham (Graphic Designer) | Funeral Programme Dr. Wilbert Warner & staff Nurse Tricia & Devonshire District Nurses Cousin Shawnette Rogers K.E.M.H Doctors and staff Lolita Morton Godwin & the ProServe Bermuda Limited team David DeSilva, The Mall Studio The Durham Family, Place Family, Aeral View Road Family, the late Lefroy and Fredericka Lathan Family, The late Cousin Nell Tweed Family

The family would like to take this opportunity to express our heartfelt appreciation and gratitude for your presence here today.

Thank you for your expressions of love, prayers, words of comfort, encouragement,telephone calls and other acts of kindness.

There will be no wake.

But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength.

They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.