B Wilson

B R YA N D E R E K W I L S O N PAG E 1

THE FORM AND ORDER FOR T H E C E L E B R AT I O N OF THE SOLEMN EUCHARIST OF THE RESURRECTION IN THANKSGIVING FOR THE LIFE OF

October 16th 1953 - December 28th 2022 Age: 69 Years Service Held At:

T H E C H U R C H O F T H E M O S T H O LY T R I N I T Y Trinity Way, Stapledon Gardens Nassau, The Bahamas

S AT U R D A Y J A N U A R Y 1 4 T H 2 0 2 3 AT 1 0 : 0 0 A M Celebrant: The Rev’d. Fr. DeAngelo Bowe - Rector Assisted by: Rev’d. Fr. John Kabiga, B.A., B.Th., M. Ed - Associate Priest The Venerable Archdeacon Fr. Mark Fox, M.B.A., B.A – Retired Priest Interment:

L A K E V I E W C E M E TA RY JFK Drive, Nassau, The Bahamas

B R YA N D E R E K W I L S O N PAG E 2

OCTOBER 16TH 1953 - DECEMBER 28TH 2022

T H E E A R LY Y E A R S

FA M I LY L I F E

Bryan Derek Wilson affectionately known by most as ‘Nipper’ ‘Valentino’ or simply just ‘Nip’ was the 3rd of 9 children to be born to the late William Stanley and Jennie Lenor Wilson nee Heastie on October 16th 1953 at what was then the family home in Augusta Street.

After dating for several years, In 1977 Bryan married Wendy Burrows, and in August 1978 they welcomed the birth of his only child, a daughter, Bryanne. Although this union did not last, he cherished the time, and the memories, and maintained a friendship with Wendy and the Burrows clan up to the time of his death.

Bryan was brought up in a strong and loving family unit that included not only his parents and siblings but also the love and support of extended family, aunts, uncles, and many cousins.

As a youngster, Bryan attended Western Junior School, and then later on JFK Senior High School where he pursued his studies as an active and intelligent student.

WORK Upon leaving school, Bryan went to work with his aunts Mary Carter and Enid Cooper at Carter’s Upholstery. It was here he would develop a love and passion for both interior design installations and entrepreneurship which would be his vocation his entire working life. He would work under his aunts for several years before moving on to join the team at Studio of Draperies owned by the late Charlie Dames and his wife Marina, and then eventually moving on as an independent contractor.

Well known, and excellent at his craft, Bryan serviced a steady stream of loyal clients and their referrals for many years.

In addition to his residential clients, Bryan also received many commercial requests some of which included Peanuts Taylor Drum Beat, and the Sheraton Paradise Island. He was efficient and prided himself on offering quality work and generally timely service, that coupled with a good natured personality that kept the clients coming back. This continued into the early 2000’s when his health forced him to retire.

His daughter Bryanne was the apple of his eye, and he was a doting father. For Bryan, the only thing better than being a father was becoming a grandfather. In December 2015 his only daughter gave him his only grandchild, a girl, Sa’mya Turnquest. He loved his granddaughter more than anything and was truly saddened that his health and limited mobility did not allow him to enjoy activities with her the way he would have liked to. But that didn’t stop him from loving on her in the ways he could. Whenever she saw ‘Papa’ he was always ready with hugs and kisses and treats.

FA I T H From a child, the word of God was hidden in Bryan’s heart.

Church and Sunday School for the offspring of the Heastie girls was not optional. Having grown up in church and being taught how to pray, in every season, no matter how he may stray, he was always able to find his way back to his source, God. That relationship with God, and the support of his family and friends, brought him through many a trial in his life, from the brokenness of divorce to overcoming the struggle of addiction. His faith brought him through. Bryan was a faithful member of the Parish Church of the most Holy Trinity, and the Anglican Church Men. He looked forward to traveling with the ACM for their annual retreat until his health no longer made it practical for him to do so.

He continued to push and attend church even as his health declined. In recent years the ushers would see him coming and rush to set up his special spot with doubled chairs for the height he needed for comfort. He continued on with his regular attendance until most recently when he truly was not up to it.

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COMMUNITY At some point in his early years, the family moved from Augusta Street to Oakes Field into what is now the Wilson homestead. Always curious and ready to explore, it took him no time to scout out the area and get to know everyone. He established many lifelong friendships and was a part of the infamous ‘University of Warren Street’.

As far as the community goes, Bryan was an institution unto himself in the Oakes Field area and he could tell you who lived in every house, those who had moved and what they were up to.

When he was mobile, he could be seen walking every day from home to ‘Cabbage’ his favorite watering hole off Farrington Rd stopping to talk to all the neighbours along the way.

Even outside of the Oakes Field community, because of his work and just his friendly nature, it felt like he knew everyone! There are so many people with a story to share about his generosity, his happy go lucky personality, his mischievous spirit, and fearlessness.

He just loved people, he was social by nature and that socialization was very important to him. So much so, that although in recent years his family didn’t think he should drive with his arms and legs deteriorating the way they were, he insisted he had to get around. He needed to be independent, he needed to be free to roam.

THE END

Left to cherish his memories are his: Daughter: Bryanne Wilson Grand Daughter: Sa’mya Turnquest Sisters: Kelsie (Edmund) Dorsett, Lynda W.G. Mason, Opal Wilson, Beatrice Heastie, Sonia Watson, Patrice(Fabian)Thurston, Wendy Huyler Brothers: William (Dr. June), Geoffrae, Kim (Tonya), Larry (Francise) Wilson, Brendan Colton, McRoy, Stanley and Bill Wilson Nieces and Nephews: Dr. Daria (Kirk) DorsettMcKayle, Michael (Dieudonne), Wayne (Daria), Jannelle Wilson, James ‘Jim’ Gawne Jr., Warren Adderley, TaShantae, Kelson, Kimeish, Kyle and Chauntez Wilson, D’andre (Naziri) Ihijerika, Chadeau (Alaina) and Jazz Wilson, Tahnee (Kelvin)Whitehead, Reginald ‘Tristan’ Johnson, Janay Posley, Athena Long, Jamal Wilson, Jamal Yallop, Travalia, Samia, Fabienne Thurston. 16 grand nieces and nephews 1st Cousins: Franklyn and Harold Carter, Madeline Carter-Lindemann, Gary Cooper and Vanrea Heastie, Sandra Wells, Gregory, Steven, Derek, Valdero, Stephan and Malachi Heastie, Gordon Major Aunt: Lorraine Knowles

The philosophy of life for Bryan was that God placed us, like Adam and Eve, in a beautiful garden, with all the resources to enjoy every moment, every breath, every new day and make our own happiness. He accepted and managed life’s challenges saying “A little rain must fall in every garden”.

Bryan experienced many challenges in his life, some from his own bad choices, others just as a part of this thing called life. But he was resilient and he was a fighter.

On the night of Wednesday December 28th, 2022, his fight was over. The Lord called him home.

He will be missed by many for his gentle smile, his candid tone and his ability to make all feel like “family”.

Bryan was predeceased by his parents William Stanley and Jennie Lenor Wilson nee Heastie Aunts and Uncles: Mary (Harcourt) Carter; Enid (McCallen) Cooper, Hickwood (Venus) Heastie, Valentine Heastie, Eugene Heastie, Bertha (Charles) Snapp, Hillerina Oliver and Kelsie Barnes.

Other Close Relatives including: The Carter, Cumberbatch, Bethel, Heastie Families Special Friends / Family: Wendy Burrows, Samuel Turnquest, Cecil ‘Cess’ Moncur, Stuart Culmer, Keith Oliver, Joseph and Karen Munroe, Arnette and Rudy Chambers, Sonia Isaacs and The family of the late Hon Chief Justice Stephen Isaacs, The family of the late Ruth Stuart, Godfrey Sherman and Family, George Kerr, Kenny Levarity, Margaret Hopkins and Family, Raquel and Shakeem Sweeting, Paul & Rosie Cleare and Family, Keith & Donna Mackey, Rabbi Miller and Family, Marina Dames and Family, The Moxey Family, DaCosta and Zell Bethel and family, Eddie Dames and Family, The Burrows Family, Theodora Hanna and Family, The Ingraham Family, & The Oakes Field/ Farrington Rd Communities, ACM and Holy Trinity Family, The crew at “Cabbage”, and the University of Warren Street Community. Many others too numerous to mention.

B R YA N D E R E K W I L S O N PAG E 4

Daddy

MY ONE GOOD ….that’s how I always referred to you. Because it was truth, you had one daughter, one child for that matter, and I had one dad, one dad that irrespective of who or what you were to anyone else, you were irreplaceable to me.

It’s hard to believe you slipped away just like that. I thought we had more time. You thought we had more time.

But only God knew the hour.

As I sit and reflect in the days since your passing, I realize how much of me is you. My zest for life, my love and commitment to family, my drive to excel at my work, my stubbornness and independence are all you. You taught me by example both good and bad, your philosophy was ‘I may be…but you better not’!

One thing I will say about you, you were extreme, extremely hot or extremely cold, there wasn’t too much middle ground with you. If you loved someone you showed them, and made sure they knew. Daddy I knew, and I know. Mya knows. We know that you loved us more than anything, that you would move mountains for us if you could. I know how proud you were of me. I also know how much you didn’t want to be a burden.

I have watched the world change around you, and you along with it. I remember the strong young man who would carry me on his neck so I could see above the crowds to watch Junkanoo every year pulling for the ‘Vikings’ who I think never rushed once in my lifetime. I remember the young man who was quite literally ready to fight any and every battle, so much so, I learned to be very guarded in sharing about any hurtful incidents with you because I knew you would be quick to be my defender at all cost.

I remember your love for the ocean and how you would swim from Balmoral Beach to Balmoral Island, just because. I remember the Christmas shopping trips. I remember you telling the restaurant it was my birthday every time we went out, so I would get a special treat or just special attention.

And then the seasons changed and I watched you get older and your body change, and I watched as one by one the things that brought you joy became a little less reachable because of the physical challenges.

Rest at peace knowing I took in every moment we shared, and I remember it all.

Although I will miss you terribly, I am not worried. You are free from pain, free from sickness and I am sure you are surrounded by love. Grammy and Grampy were there to receive you, and will be there to keep you in line. And your very good friends Keith Campbell, Stephen Isaacs, Double O, Terry Thompson and Tony are there for fun and mischief. So I know you are good.

Until it’s my time, I will hold on to the memories, hold on to the lessons, hold on to the love. I will continue to make you proud, not that there was anything I could ever do to change the way you saw me. I will do my best to give Mya all the lessons you would have wanted her to have, including how to change her car tire, and to continue to keep your memory alive in her heart and in her mind so that she never forgets how much she was loved by her papa.

With all my love, Your baby girl.

Bryan B R YA N D E R E K W I L S O N PAG E 1 2

Bryan

TRIBUTE TO

TO MY DEAREST UNCLE NIPPER thank you for all the wonderful childhood memories you have created with us, that I will cherish. Im Grateful to you for teaching me to be free spirited and open minded. You have showed me from a young age how important family is.

Sherique

Love you always,

‘MY OTHER TWIN’ Loving, exasperating, smart and talented - that was my brother, my ‘other twin’ Bryan. My heart aches knowing you are no longer with us.

When I came home as a kid, I always knew Bryan would take me on at least one adventure. He made sure I was safe and secure, which didn’t guarantee we wouldn’t get in trouble with our Daddy.

At the beach we partnered up for water fights. He was competitive. I was in it purely for the fun.

On my son’s first trip to the Bahamas, Bryan arranged for Cecil to take us on a glass bottom boat ride. A lovely introduction to our waters for Jim and an enjoyable time for all.

I have many more stories in my treasure trove that will remain with me always.

I wish I could see you one more time, tell you how much I love you, but I’ll have to make do with your pictures and the memories I hold close to my heart.

Your ‘other twin’

Lynda

W H E N I T H I N K B A C K , there are two things that stand out about my brother Bryan. The first was how he mentored his employees. This gave them important skills which increased their viability in the employment market.

The next was how his customers knew the work they contracted him to do would be completed with excellence.

Until we meet again.

Opal

WHO I NEVER CALLED NIPPER You were definitely unique so much so that I have ‘known’ you all your life and upon your death feel that I really did not know you as you seemed to be twelve characters in one. I liked most of the characters but some were a challenge, nevertheless I loved you and take this opportunity to talk about your endearing and personable nature.

Bryan was admired by me for his adventurous and fearless spirit, an example of which I will now share. Many years ago on a regular basis, being a strong swimmer, he would effortlessly swim from the beach at the old Balmoral Hotel, now Sandals, to Balmoral Island where the hotel guests were taken, by boat, for a day’s outing. He was cheered on by the guests who applauded him and showered him with free drinks which probably initiated his drinking habit which became his thorn in the flesh. Upon reflection, the hotel should have paid him for entertaining their guest.

Throughout his career he worked for a wide cross section of people and always did his best to please them. He was more than reasonable in his charge and often charged nothing. Many of these people became fast friends and reciprocated when he was no longer able to work. He was known for his kindness, concern pleasant smile, odd sense of humour and willingness to help. I was a recipient of his thoughtfulness and kindness. Being mostly confined to his chair he would ensure that I get avocadoes, mangoes and plantain when in season. The latter he grew, would have a hand cut, and call me to come now. Likewise, he would have a visiting friend pick mangoes for me and tell me come now. Avocadoes he would demand of friends so that he can give them to me. In all instances I had to come now and if I was not there in a matter of minutes he would call until I get there.

When he knew his sisters, Lynda and Opal, were coming to town, he would rally his forces and see that they ensure that his sisters are properly entertained. Whenever I visited, one of his first questions was how are your sisters and how is Aunt Bert stating that if he was in better condition he would visit them himself and render help.

Bryan was always in pain and recently was dependent on others for help but this, until quite recently, did not prevent him from ‘hopping’ to church on his crutches, This was highly commendable as was many things he did despite the crankiness bought on by the pain and other ailments.

My dear brother, we had our good times as well as our serious quarrels, both of which I will miss but not so much the latter. You are the first of Bill and Jennie’s eight children to join them.

I/ We are so saddened by your unexpected departure and will miss you greatly. We thank God for you and bid you farewell with love.

Kelsie B R YA N D E R E K W I L S O N PAG E 1 3

AS WE C E L E B R AT E THE LIFE OF B R YA N W I L S O N T O D A Y, I am moved to quote a verse of poetry.

“A Faithful Friend is the Medicine of Life”

by Mary Tighe Let friendship the stream, as it flows calm and clear Receive unpolluted for me Or if tenderness mingle a sigh or a tear The draught still the sweeter will be.

Over the course of our lives the stream of friendship flowed calm and rough at times. Bryan had been my love, my husband, my lamenter. But mostly he has been my true and faithful friend until the end.

A wise man said a true friend is like the sun which remains red, both at sunrise and at sunset. The book of Ecclesiastes defines a faithful friend as “the medicine of life” and a final quote is said “what you give you get back”. Nipper gave so much of his energy and time to indulge with his family and friends, sharing in his way, his love, compassion and everything good or bad in between depending on your perspective, and in return he was blessed back with lots of love and good fellowship all his days and to the very end when his family remained close by, on watch to mark his passing.

For our daughter he will be remembered as the caring and protective dad. Our grand-daughter will remember “Papa” who brought snacks and sweets every trip and, if you believe that laughter is the best medicine then all our family and friends will remember the moments shared with Nipper because good or bad, his antics were extreme. Extremely exciting, ecstatic, amazing or made your blood pressure rise. Either way his memories will bring a real hearty amount of laughter to your day if you remember him as friend.

So take your rest, sweet Prince, whom I will remember as a true and faithful friend.

Wendy

TRIBUTE TO MY BROTHER B R YA N “ N I P P E R ” W I L S O N Nipper you were truly one-of-a-kind. “I did it my way” describes you to a T. You had your challenges and most of the time no one knew, not even us your close family as you never wanted to be a burden to anyone or depend on anyone. Knowing how you were, we never pushed, now we wish we did. You were stubborn oh yes you were, but we should have pushed through that stubbornness and made you take better care of yourself. As siblings do, we had our arguments and our fights but through it all you knew we loved you and we knew you loved us. You made Mommy so happy when you started coming to church regularly and joined the ACM even in spite of your challenges.

I pray that our loving and forgiving Lord accepts you with open arms, say hi to Mom and Dad for us.

Rest easy my brother.

B R YA N D E R E K W I L S O N PAG E 1 4

Larry

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Pallbearers WILLIAM WILSON

MICHAEL WILSON

GEOFFRAE WILSON

CHADEAU WILSON

KIM WILSON

SAMUEL TURNQUEST

L A R RY W I L S O N

M A RV I N H O P K I N S

Honourary Pallbearers G A RY C O O P E R

C A LV I N ‘ C E S S ’ M O N C U R

F R A N K LY N C A R T E R

H A R O L D C A RT E R

EDMUND DORSETT

S T U A RT C U L M E R

JOSEPH MUNROE

KEITH OLIVER

Acknowledgements