Rosemary MARTIN FOUNTAIN
MARCH 22ND, 1956 - NOVEMBER 9TH, 2024
THE RITE OF A CHRISTIAN BURIAL
Rosemary MARTIN FOUNTAIN
March 22nd, 1956 - November 9th, 2024
Age: 68 years
Service Held At ST. ANSELM’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Bernard Road N.P., Bahamas
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7TH, 2024 AT 2.00PM
Officiating: FR. NOËL CLARKE
DEACON: REV. MR. RICARDO DEMERITTE
Organist: MR. BENJAMIN DAVIS
Interment: WOODLAWN GARDENS, Soldier Road, N.P., Bahamas
Rosemary MARTIN FOUNTAIN
Life doesn’t come with a manual. It comes with a mother, and Rosemary Martin-Fountain set the bar. She was the perfect Mummy and Grammy to her daughter, Bonnie; son-in-law, Blaise; and grandchildren, Elikya and Jon. They were blessed to experience first hand her kindness, fierce devotion, and desire to always leave things better than she found them.
Rosemary Martin-Fountain was born on March 22, 1956 to Millicent (Fox) Martin and Vincent Martin in Nassau, Bahamas. She was the oldest daughter born of this union.
As a young girl, she spent much of her time caring for her siblings. She and her sister Marilyn (Mary) were exceptionally close as children and continued to serve as best friends and pillars of strength for one another until her passing.
In 1972, Rosemary graduated from St Augustine’s College (SAC) in Nassau, Bahamas where she formed many friendships that went on to thrive and survive despite the time and distance that separated them.
At the age of 16, Rosemary immigrated to Charlotte, NC and attended Central Piedmont Community College, graduating from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. There, she married and had one daughter, Bonnie. Rosemary was always determined to make sure her only child Bonnie was exposed to as many opportunities as possible.
As such, she served as a Girl Scout leader for over ten years and as a co- leader of the Little Rock AME Zion Church Junior Usher Board during Bonnie’s formative years. It was in Girl Scouts that Bonnie’s childhood best friend, Belinda, remembers the multiple trips out of town and to the mall that Mrs. Martin-Fountain somehow tied to earning badges! What Rosemary considered to be small acts positively impacted the families of girls whose lives she touched through Girl Scouts.
Rosemary was employed by the United States Post Office for over 30 years, rising through the ranks—from craft level as a mailroom employee to Manager of Human Resources. Of all of her experiences with the USPS, her most fond memories were those providing professional learning experiences to craft level workers, empowering them to pursue managerial level
ROSEMARY MARTIN FOUNTAIN
ROSEMARY MARTIN FOUNTAIN
positions. When the attendees of her professional learning experiences graduated, she would reflect on how she could make the learning experience even better for her next group of students.
In her spare time, she enjoyed editing the spiritual writings of her close friend, Rev. Angela Palacious. This allowed her to stay spiritually grounded and connected to her faith. Rosemary resisted retiring for years because she felt she would miss the busyness of working for the US Postal Service. It was there that she made many friends along her professional journey, friends who became more like family than friends.
Upon retirement, the first thing she did was to register to volunteer at Bonnie’s school. She tutored two young men for a few months before she finally started to enjoy her retirement, taking her first post- retirement trip. Once she started flying the friendly skies without a care in the world, she never returned to volunteer! Instead, she decided to travel the world with friends and sometimes alone. She traveled the world. Egypt, Dubai, England, and Hawaii were some of her favorite adventures. She enjoyed being a globetrotter, but she also enjoyed her trips back home to the Bahamas.
Of all of the titles Rosemary possessed in her life, her favorite was Grammy. She enjoyed nothing more than doting on her two grandchildren, Elikya and Jon. In fact, by the time Elikya was born, Rosemary had already purchased enough baby-themed ornaments to decorate two Christmas trees! Elikya and her Grammy spent lots of time shopping and laughing about any and everything that came to mind. Her youngest and only grandson, Jon, could do no wrong in his Grammy’s eyes. Rosemary’s favorite thing was to measure just how “tall” she was compared to Jon. She somehow thought they were similar in height! Anything Elikya and Jon participated in, Rosemary was there in the front row cheering for them. These are memories they will cherish forever.
Rosemary fulfilled her desire to leave the world better than she found it. Countless lives were touched through her love for life and unwavering dedication to service. Rosemary may no longer be here on earth, but she will live on through her descendants and others whose lives she touched. Her daughter, Bonnie, inherited her fierce dedication and desire to be of service to others. Her granddaughter, Elikya, will carry on her zest for life and ability to always seek the good in others. Jon, her grandson, will carry on her quiet confidence and reflective personality, always looking for the true meaning of life. She will be missed more than words can ever express by those who loved her most.
Rosemary was preceded in death by her parents Millicent and Vincent Martin and brothers Samuel, Gary and Onnie Martin.
She leaves to carry on her legacy a host of friends and family including
Her precious only daughter, Bonnie; her loving son-in-law: Blaise, and her beloved grandchildren, Elikya and Jon. She is survived by her sister: Marilyn MartinStubbs; nephews: Reginald Stubbs, Sabastian and Alexander Fawkes; bonus children: Monique (Toni) Taylor, Michael Fountain, Jr. (Kara) and Mia Rolle (Oral); grandchildren: Miguel Rolle; Meaghan, Maddison and Morghyn Fountain; sisters: Susan Mitchell (Rod), Shirley Smith, Sandra, Miriam and Latika Martin; brothers: Randolph Fawkes, Nathan and Michael Martin; extended family: the Styles, Swaby, Fox, Rhynes, Mwanda and Minnis families. Special friends: Archdeacon James and Rev. Angela Palacious, Pamela Rhynes, Joan Richardson-Lanier, Pat Jones, Alice Moore, Cheryl Coles, Debra Clayton, Sharmaine & Julian Gibson, Patricia Bowe, Floridell Adderley, Naomi & Prince Capron, Manetta Smith, Renee Smith,
ORDER of SERVICE
ENTRANCE CEREMONY
Antiphon/All: I place all my trust in you my God: All my hope is in your saving Word.
Priest: Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord, Lord, hear my voice. People: O let your ears be attentive to the voice of my pleading.
Priest: If you, O Lord, should mark our guilt, Lord, who would survive? People: But with you is found forgiveness: for this we revere you.
Priest: My soul is waiting for the Lord, I count on His Word. People: My soul is longing for the Lord more than watchman for daybreak.
Priest: Because with the Lord there is mercy and fullness of redemption People: Israel indeed he will redeem from all its iniquity.
Priest: To the Father Almighty give glory, give glory to his Son. People: To the Spirit most holy give praise, whose reign is forever.
Antiphon/All: I place all my trust in you my God: All my hope is in your saving Word.
Priest: The grace and peace of God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you. People: And with your spirit.
Priest: I bless + the mortal remains of Rosemary with the holy water that recalls her baptism of which St. Paul writes: All of us who were baptised into Christ Jesus were baptised into his death. By baptism into his death we were buried together with him, so that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might live a new life. For if we have been united with him by likeness to his death, so shall we be united with him by likeness to his resurrection.
ENTRANCE HYMN................................................................................................................ “Amazing Grace” (verses 1 to 2)
Amazing grace how sweet the sound That saved a wretch like me I once was lost, but now I’m found Was blind but now I see
‘Twas grace that taught my heart to fear And grace my fears relieved How precious did that grace appear The hour I first believed
(In remembrance of our baptismal garments a white pall shall be placed over the mortal remains of Rosemary)
Priest: On the day of her baptism, Rosemary put on Christ. In the day of Christ’s coming may she be clothed with glory. People: Amen.
ENTRANCE HYMN ......................................................................................................... “Amazing Grace” (remaining verses)
Through many dangers, toils, and snares I have already come This grace that brought me safe thus far And grace will lead me home
When we’ve been here ten thousand years Bright, shining as the sun
We’ve no less days to sing God’s praise Than when we first begun
Amazing grace how sweet the sound That saved a wretch like me I once was lost, but now I’m found Was blind but now I see
ROSEMARY MARTIN FOUNTAIN
CEREMONY OF THE PASCHAL CANDLE
Priest: Behold the light of Christ. People: Thanks be to God.
Priest: I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and whosoever lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?
People: Yes! We believe that Jesus is the anointed One, the Son of God, he who is to come into the world.
Priest: We must work the works of him who sent me while it is day; night comes when no one can work. As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life. (John 8:12)
Priest: The Lord be with you. People: And with your spirit.
Priest: Let us pray: O God, whose nature is always to forgive and to show mercy, we humbly implore you for your servant Rosemary whom you have called to journey to you, and, since she hoped and believed in you, grant that she may be led to our true homeland to delight in its everlasting joys, through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, One God, forever and ever. People: Amen.
THE LITURGY OF THE WORD
FIRST READING ............................................................ Proverbs 3:5-6 .......................................... Bernard Smith (nephew)
RESPONSORIAL PSALM 121 .................................................................................................... “The Lord is my Shepherd”
The Lord’s my Shepherd, I’ll not want; He makes me down to lie In pastures green; He leadeth me The quiet waters by.
My soul He doth restore again, And me to walk doth make Within the paths of righteousness, E’en for His own name’s sake.
Yea, though I walk in death’s dark vale, Yet will I fear no ill; For Thou art with me, and Thy rod And staff me comfort still.
My table Thou hast furnished In presence of my foes; My head Thou dost with oil anoint, And my cup overflows.
Goodness and mercy all my life Shall surely follow me, And in God’s house forevermore My dwelling-place shall be.
SECOND READING ........................................ 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 ...............................................................................
GOSPEL ACCLAMATION
Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia
“I am the resurrection and the Life, says the Lord; whoever believes in me will not die forever.” (John 11: 25-26) Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia
(All stand out of respect to the gospel. After the gospel be seated.)
GOSPEL ..................................................................... Matthew 11:28-30 ................................................................... Deacon
HOMILY ......................................................................................................................................................... (Please be seated)
PRAYERS OF THE FAITHFUL .............................................................................................................................................
PREPARATION OF THE ALTAR
OFFERTORY HYMN ....................................................................................................... “Praise to the Lord, the Almighty”
Praise to the Lord, the Almighty, the King of creation!
O my soul, praise Him, for He is thy health and salvation!
All ye who hear, Now to His temple draw near; Sing now in glad adoration!
Praise to the Lord, who o’er all things so wondrously reigneth, Who, as on wings of an eagle, uplifteth, sustaineth.
Hast thou not seen How thy desires all have been Granted in what He ordaineth?
Praise to the Lord, who hath fearfully, wondrously, made thee!
Health hath vouchsafed and, when heedlessly falling, hath stayed thee. What need or grief Ever hath failed of relief? Wings of His mercy did shade thee.
Praise to the Lord, who doth prosper thy work and defend thee, Who from the heavens the streams of His mercy doth send thee.
Ponder anew
What the Almighty can do, Who with His love doth befriend thee.
Praise to the Lord! Oh, let all that is in me adore Him!
All that hath life and breath, come now with praises before Him! Let the Amen Sound from His people again; Gladly for aye we adore Him.
Priest: Pray, brethren, that our sacrifice may be acceptable to God the Almighty Father. People: May the Lord accept the sacrifice at your hands for the praise and glory of his name, for our good, and the good of all his holy Church.
(Please Stand)
THE GREAT THANKSGIVING – THE HOLY EUCHARIST THE PREFACE
FIRST ACCLAMATION OF THE PEOPLE:
People: Holy, Holy, Holy Lord, God of hosts. Heaven and earth are full of your glory, Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, Hosanna in the highest.
SECOND ACCLAMATION OF THE PEOPLE:
Priest: The mystery of faith.
People: We proclaim your Death, O Lord, and profess your Resurrection until you come again.
THIRD ACCLAMATION OF THE PEOPLE:
Priest: Through him, with him, in him, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, all glory and honour is yours Almighty Father, forever and ever.
People: Amen.
(Please stand)
THE COMMUNION RITE
Priest: Let us pray with confidence to the Father in the words our Saviour gave us:
People: Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.
Priest: Deliver us, Lord, we pray, from every evil, graciously grant peace in our days, that, by the help of your mercy we may be always free from sin and safe from all distress, as we await the coming of our Saviour, Jesus Christ. People: For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours, now and forever. Amen.
Priest: The Lord be with you. People: And with your spirit.
LAMB OF GOD
Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world; Have Mercy on us Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world; Have Mercy on us Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world; Grant us peace.
(After ‘Lamb of God’ please kneel)
COMMUNION HYMN ................................................................................................................. “Sweet Sacrament Divine”
Sweet Sacrament divine, hid in thine earthly home; lo! round thy lowly shrine, with suppliant hearts we come; Jesus, to thee our voice we raise In songs of love and heartfelt praise sweet Sacrament divine.
Sweet Sacrament of peace, dear home of every heart, where restless yearnings cease, and sorrows all depart. there in thine ear, all trustfully, we tell our tale of misery, sweet Sacrament of peace.
Sweet Sacrament of rest, ark from the ocean’s roar, within thy shelter blest soon may we reach the shore; save us, for still the tempest raves, save, lest we sink beneath the waves: sweet Sacrament of rest.
Sweet Sacrament divine, earth’s light and jubilee, in thy far depths doth shine the Godhead’s majesty; sweet light, so shine on us, we pray that earthly joys may fade away: sweet Sacrament divine.
PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION ........................................................................................................................ (Please stand)
PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION (Please stand)
BLESSING OF MORTAL REMAINS
Priest: Let us pray:
Priest: Saints of God, come to her aid! Come to meet her, angels of the Lord! People: Receive her soul and present her to God the Most High.
Priest: May Christ, who called you, take you to himself; may angels lead you to Abraham’s side. People: Receive her soul and present her to God the Most High.
Priest: Give her eternal rest, O Lord, and may your light shine on her forever. People: Receive her soul and present her to God the Most High.
When peace, like a river, attendeth my way, When sorrows like sea billows roll; Whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say, It is well, it is well with my soul.
It is well with my soul; It is well, it is well with my soul.
Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come, Let this blest assurance control, That Christ has regarded my helpless estate, And has shed his own blood for my soul.
My sin—O the bliss of this glorious thought!— My sin, not in part, but the whole, Is nailed to the cross and I bear it no more; Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!
O Lord, haste the day when the faith shall be sight, The clouds be rolled back as a scroll, The trump shall resound and the Lord shall descend; “Even so”—it is well with my soul.
AT THE CEMETERY
Priest: Let us pray:
Priest: By your coming as man
People: Lord, save your people. By your birth Lord, save your people. By your baptism and fasting
Lord, save your people. By your suffering and cross Lord, save your people. By your death and burial
Lord, save your people. By your rising to new life Lord, save your people. By your return in glory to the Father Lord, save your people. By your gift of the Holy Spirit Lord, save your people. By your coming again in Glory Lord, save your people.
Priest: Final prayer
CITY OF GOLD
There’s a city of light Where there cometh no night, ‘Tis a city of beauty untold; All my treasures are there And its beauty I’ll share When I get to that city of Gold
When I leave all trouble and care, I will say good morning up there; I will have great gladness untold, When I get to that City of Gold
There’s no sorrow up there
In that city so fair
And no sickness can enter I’m told; Shadows all will have flown, I will meet friends I’ve known, When we get to that city of gold.
Won’t you go there with me
To the home of the free, Would you see heaven’s beauty unfold; If you will come along, We will sing heaven’s song, When we get to that city of gold.
IT IS FINISHED
There’s a line that is drawn through the ages
On that line stands an old rugged cross
On that cross, a battle is raging
To gain a man’s soul or it’s loss
It is finished, the battle is over
It is finished, there’ll be no more war
It is finished, the end of the conflict
It is finished and Jesus is Lord
On one side, march the forces of evil
All the demons, all the devils of hell
On the other, the angels of glory
And they meet on Golgotha’s hill
The earth shakes with the force of the conflict
And the sun refuses to shine
For there hangs God’s son, in the balance
And then through the darkness he cries
Yet in my heart, the battle was still raging
Not all prisoners of war had come home
These were battlefields of my own making
I didn’t know that the war had been won
Oh, but then I heard the king of the ages
Had fought all the battles for me
And that victory was mine for the claiming
And now praise his name, I am free
A SONG FOR Mama
You taught me everything
And everything you’ve given me
I’ll always keep it inside
You’re the driving force in my life, yeah
There isn’t anything
Or anyone that I could be
And it just wouldn’t feel right
If I didn’t have you by my side
You were there for me to love and care for me
When skies were gray
Whenever I was down
You were always there to comfort me
And no one else can be
What you have been to me, you will always be
You will always be the girl
In my life for all times
Mama, mama, you know I love you
(You know I love you)
Mama, mama, you’re the queen of my heart
Your love is like tears from the stars, yes, it is
Mama, I just want you to know, lovin’ you is like food to my soul You’re always there for me
Have always been around for me, even when I was bad
You showed me right from my wrong
Yes, you did
And you took up for me
When everyone was downin’ me
You always did understand
You gave me strength to go on
There were so many times
Looking back when I was so afraid
And then you’d come to me and say to me
I could face anything
And no one else can do
What you have done for me
You’ll always be, you will always be
The girl in my life, ooh, oh
Mama, mama, you know I love you
(You know I love you, you know I love you)
Mama, mama, you’re the queen of my heart
(you are)
Your love is like tears from the stars
(Your love is like tears from the stars)
Mama, I just want you to know (ooh, mama I just want you to know) Lovin’ you is like food to my soul
Boys II Men CD I gifted to my mom around 1998. This song perfectly sums up who my mom is to me and why I love her so.
To my beloved Sister,
Rosemary Martin Fountain. Although you’ve been taken from us too soon, you will always be an inspiration to those who knew and loved you. You consistently led by example, a true matriarch by every definition of the word. From your dedication and committment to your career with the US Post Office, to the many ways you helped others in your life, including opening your home to those that needed shelter, guidance or affection. It saddens me to know you did not get the treatment you so richly deserved in the last years of your life from the many who extended an open hand to you. You, my dear sister always led with actions, not with simply empty words. You deserved to be cherished and respected. You deserved the same kindness, thoughtfulness and generosity to be returned tenfold. I am so blessed that we reconnected these past many years so we could rebuild our relationship and solidify the love we’ve always shared for one another, the same love you held for your daughter and your
WHERE YOU ARE
By Elikya R. Mwanda
I hope it’s warm where you are, and it turns your skin golden brown
I hope you’re right on the beach and you can swim as far away from the shore as you want
I hope you can throw a party every week a birthday, a baby shower, a graduation
I hope they throw parties for you
I hope you travel somewhere new every month on a cruise ship in the sky or a train that runs on an underwater track
I hope you drive a tiny red convertible and the top is always down (it never rains) and you fill the passenger seat with shopping bags
I hope the food is good
I hope everyone knows your name like they do down here I hope you don’t miss us
I hope you know how much we miss you Love, Precious And Sweet Pea
Mommy, MOM, GRAMMYIE
It is difficult to imagine life without you. Your unselfish,unwavering love and support will be missed more than words could ever express. Whether it meant regularly traveling to Mason, OH to check on us since we were without family and so far away from home, attending whatever Elikya or Jon may have been involved in, dropping by food just because, giving Bonnie and Blaise great professional advice,you have always been there. While our hearts ache in ways unimaginable, we will somehow find the strength to continue to move forward because we know that is what you would want. Our happiness has always been what was most important to you. And so we will do all we can to honor your memory and move from strength to strength.
-Blaise, Bonnie, Elikya & Jon
My Sister
affectionately called Rosie was the most loving, kind and forgiving person I
Whenever she was in between traveling and doctors appointments she was in Nassau doing whatever she decided I needed help with. And that help normally took the form of gardening which we both enjoyed.
I love my sister dearly , she was my big sister and my best friend. We looked alike but we were different in many ways and it was fine. We embraced each
As I have said to her many times when she was being mischievous, “My sister,
I understand He called and you had to go but I will miss you so much!!! I appreciate all the time we spent together. You will always be in my thoughts!!!
T ODAY, we gather to honor and remember our beloved stepmother, Rosie. With heavy hearts, we reflect on the profound impact you had on our lives. Your love and wisdom shaped our family, leaving an indelible mark on me, Kara, and our three daughters, Meghyn, Maddyson, and Morghyn.
Rosie, we are eternally grateful for the years you spent with us, offering your unwavering support and guidance. Your nurturing spirit created a home filled with warmth and love. The special bond you shared with Meghyn was a treasure, and the memories you both created together will forever hold a special place in her heart.
You taught us the true meaning of kindness and compassion, and your laughter brought joy to our lives. We miss you dearly, but we find comfort in knowing that I had the chance to express my adoration for you before we lost you. Your love continues to guide us, and the memories we shared will always be a source of strength.
Rosie, you will forever remain in our hearts. We love you and we miss you deeply. Rest peacefully, knowing that your spirit will live on in us, and that the love you gave will
AS I SIT HERE AND STARE AT THE SKY I STILL CAN’T BELIEVE YOU’RE ACTUALLY GONE.
The shaking. I met you or you actually came into my life some 30yrs ago. I know not a day went by that you didn’t think of Mikie and I and then when I had Miguel it was all over after that. Whether it was seeing you in person or getting that phone call I know I’d see you or hear your voice. It’s hard right now to put these words on paper to say what’s in my heart. If I had known the last time I’d see your face was when I was in hospital I would’ve kept you there longer. No one but you can ask me a question and get answers from me. You always gave a diagnosis as to how I’m feeling whether I answered the phone or not but I know for sure you’d give me your 5 cents. I never questioned your love for us and you are not just a stepmother but my 2nd mom. How could someone be so lucky to have 2 mothers? I expressed myself to you on paper because I’m not a big talker but I am happy that God put you in our lives and despite the circumstances he had much better plans for you for taking you when he did. I can go on and on writing about and to you but I won’t. I’m comfortable knowing you knew what was in my heart and I was able to let you know how much you were/are loved. Thank you, thank you and again I say ‘THANK YOU’. We love you and you will forever be in our hearts.
Loving you always, Mia and Miguel
, A TRUE FRIEND AND SISTER
Rosie
God has truly blessed me with some sisters in Christ who are loyal, honest, open,
Rosie’s love will never be forgotten by those who understood the values she affirmed and principles she lived. She was such a strong, family-oriented person who wanted only the best for her nuclear and extended family.
Her laugh was infectious, and we shared so many fond memories for almost thirty years. I am grateful to God that she was able to travel as much as she eventually did.
The world has lost the presence of an amazing woman, but in her absence, we have the opportunity to emulate her very best qualities.
My sister-friend, you are a rare treasure who fought a good fight, teaching us all how to endure sickness and suffering with prayerful grace.
May you rest in peace, and may we all meet again in glory.
DEAR MY
Ms. Rosie,
Thank you for being the sun that breaks the rain, and the light that brightens the sky. You were always a flower that blossomed when I spiked curiosity. Thank you for being that open-guided person.
Forever your friend, Ralphy
MY DEAR FRIEND, Rosie
What a beautiful friend you have been to me over these last almost 50 years. There are so many wonderful memories I will always carry in my heart of conversations, visits, laughs, traveling and always your never- wavering support and friendship. You have lent your many talents for planning to me and the family many times ... the renewal of wedding vows for George and me, putting together the program for George’s memorial service, hosting a cook- out in Nassau for Shawn & Jennifer, and helping decorate for their reception back here to name a few. None of these would have been as well done without you! We’ve been to some nice places together thanks to your planning and pushing! Thank you, dear Rosie, for being YOU! Your smile, your friendship, your contagious laugh, and your love have meant so much. I honestly cannot imagine my life without you, but I thank God for all the years we’ve had. I’ll always love you, Rosie, and I’ll always carry the beautiful memories God has blessed me with in my heart to relive and smile. I’ll miss you so much. May you rest in peace, free of pain, and enjoying the company of all your loved ones who were waiting for you! I’ll see you again some day.
Love to you always, my friend! Pam
A TRIBUTE TO OUR ROSIE
R OSE O UTSTANDING S OCIAL
That’s Rosie.
How can you say good-bye to a Classmate, Friend and Sister, who you have known, seen and spoken to for over half a century?
Rosie, being the consummate warrior that she was, was the glue that kept the ‘Golden Girls’ together. Her laughter, resonating over the lines, or in person, as she spoke about her adventures, and planning her SAC Class of ‘72 Cruise for June 2025… She was a force to reckon with. Rosie was the quintessential SACCER, and she was enthusiastically looking forward to another year’s reunion with her Classmates. She was a light in dark times, and a source of joy and inspiration.
We shall miss you Rosie, but we know that our Heavenly Father loves you best. He decided that there would be no more pain for you and elevated you to a better place.
Forever in our Hearts. Love You!!
The Golden Girls – Maria, Lew, Renee, Audrey and Doreen
Our Rosie
ST. AUGUSTINE’S COLLEGE “SAC CLASS OF 1972”
“A Rose by any other name is still a Rose” - “It seems she hangs upon the cheeks of night, like a rich jewel in an Ethiop’s Ear; a beauty too rich for use, for earth too dear.”
These words from SHAKESPEARE’S ‘ROMEO AND JULIET’, truly capture the essence of Rosemary Martin Fountain, our ‘Rosie’. It was a bright and sunny Monday morning in September 1967, when the class of ’72 of St. Augustines’ College (SAC), set foot on the campus, located on Bernard Road, Fox Hill, Nassau, The Bahamas. It was history in the making, as it was the year that SAC became Coeducational. Prior to this date, SAC was the only ‘all boys’ school in the country. A decision was made to combine Xavier’s High School, located opposite the Western Esplanade on West Bay Street, and SAC; thus the ‘two became one’. It was here that we first met Rosie. What makes the Class of ’72 so special is that we were the first co-ed class to graduate, after spending five full years at SAC. Over the years, we forged a true and lasting friendship with our Rosie. Our reflections on Rosie, will show how she affected our lives.
HUEL DAMES: As the Sun radiates “LIGHT and WARMTH”, Rosie radiated “JOYFULL ENERGY” and “BUBBLY ENTHUSIAM”. These admirable qualities she shared generously with her Classmates of “72”. In her presence, there was a “Pleasurable Urge” to share in her melodious laughter and infectious humor! She has left a void, but it is one filled with “Positive Uplifting Memories”. For being our “ROSE OF SUNSHINE”, Class of 1972, together, we pray for your eternal Rest in Peace.
GILDA WEECH HOUSE: “We planned to meet, we tried to meet, but somehow it was not meant to be.” Rosie and I reconnected in 2021, Prior to the SAC ’72, 50th Reunion. She called me out of the blue one day, to say that she wanted to help with the SAC ’72 Scholarship Fund. I remember reflecting on the years that had passed and saying to myself that her voice had not changed one bit. Over the course of the months leading up to the reunion, I learned that she was not well. We exchanged Texts and calls as she kept me posted on her health. Rosie and I kept saying we would get together in Tampa or DC, NC or somewhere else, after she was unable to make the reunion in 2022.
A few weeks ago, I spoke with Rosie, and she told me that she was in excruciating pain”. I was chilled to my bones after reading her text. Now, all I could think about is that we came so close to meeting in October, but sadly, she was unable to make the trip. Rosie was a warrior! Her deep-throated laugh was so special. What I regret most is that we did not actually see each other in person, as we had planned. This leaves me with hope that Rosie will be among the angels waiting for me at the Pearly Gates to Heaven, with the open arms she so passionately shared with me virtually. I am certain that she will say, “Girl Gilda, I told you we’d meet again!”
TERRY NOTTAGE FORBES: I will always remember Rosie for her Lively, Bubbly spirit.
Val McEwan: Rosemary Martin Fountain, exemplified Love, Life, Faith and resilience. Rosie’s spirit will forever live in my heart, thoughts and mind. Sleep In Sweet Peace!
LINDA RUSSELL: Rosie was energetic and the life of the party.
SONIA BASTIAN ROSE: Rosie and I came into contact when both of us were living in Washington, DC. She had reached out to me for assistance with obtaining a passport for her brother. At this time in our lives, what strikes me most about Rosie is that even though she was ill, she was more concerned about the welfare of her daughter and her siblings. I spoke with her the day before she entered the hospital, concerning our plans to meet in DC in October, 2024. Despite the pain and the severity of her illness, she held firm to her desire to meet with her classmates and indicated that she would make every effort to be there. It pains me that we did not get to meet! Memories of her will remain in my heart.
LEWELLYN OLANDER BURGZORG: I met Rosie in high school, where we had a good friendship. She was ‘Bubbly and a little Mischievous’. After high school, we went separate ways. I was happy when we reconnected while planning our 50th Reunion, June 2022. Even though Rosie was in NC, she became a part of the planning committee. Sadly however, Rosie was unable to make the 50th Reunion that she had helped to plan. Not long after this, fate intervened and Rosie was able to make the ‘SAC ‘72 Red Explosion Reunion’ in Freeport Grand Bahama, June 2024. We became even closer after this. I am saddened by her loss, but the Father knows best, so He took her to His Home. Love you always Rosie!
TREVOR HANNA MCKAY: During our high school days at SAC, Rosie was shy, quiet and reserved. Over the years, the shy Rosie blossomed and became a vital member of the planning committee for our SAC ’72, 50th Anniversary Celebrations. Not wanting to burden anyone with her problems, Rosie never shared her health issues, and many of us did not realize how ill she was. At the Red Explosion in Freeport, Rosie, with her bubbly spirit, was the life of the party, and she thoroughly enjoyed each event. Realizing the uncertainty and brevity of life, Rosie led the charge in planning our next event, the ‘SAC ’72 Cruise’ scheduled for July, 2025. Rosie made all the arrangements. Additionally, a small group of us had planned a ‘Girls’ Gathering’ in Washington, DC: Rosie, Paula, Terry, Sonia, and I, were going to be
hosted by Gilda, in DC, October 19th to 27th, 2024. We were all looking forward to this event. When I contacted Rosie on the 9th of October, to tell her that I had deposited my cruise downpayment into her account, she said to me, ‘See you in another week Trevor.” As fate would have it, it was not to be! So, today, even though I am broken hearted and saddened by her loss, I realize that God had other plans for Rosie. I will miss her dearly. God’s Blessings on you, our Special, Red Rose, Rosie!
DOREEN ROLLE: Rosie will truly be missed. I remember her Infectious Smile and Warm Heart. She never held a grudge against anyone. Instead, she always showed love.
DREXEL MARTIN: Rosie my cousin and my Classmate; it is so hard to say goodbye. We can’t believe that you are not with us anymore. We are thinking of you with love today. We have treasured memories of our time with you at the ‘SAC ’72 Red Explosion’ in Freeport, in June 2024. You will remain in our hearts in the years ahead. Love you always Rosie!
CHERYL RUSSELL BASTIAN: Rosie was a special and true friend. Like her name, she was as Beautiful as a Rose. She was a Shining Light like the sun and moon when in her midst. I will miss her Fun-loving spirit. Rest in peace Rosie.
ROSE OLANDER: I remember that we decided, as a class, to affectionately call her ‘Rosie’, instead of Rosemary because, like a rose, Rosie was beautiful inside and out.
MARILYN MUNROE: Rosie was My Dear Classmate, from Eastern Junior, Pyfrom Road Secondary School, then SAC: We enjoyed a special bond as young girls because of the friendship
between our parents. Her Energy, Compassion, Physical Embrace and Humorous comments were directed to every classmate during our ‘SAC ’72 Red Explosion’ Weekend. Her positive attitude was notably remarkable, as she worked at every event with joy and happiness. I will always have treasured memories of a beautiful Rose, our Rosie.
ENDRIC DELEVEAUX: I always found Rosie to be somewhat quiet during the days at SAC - Fast forward to my reconnection with her, during the planning of our SAC ’72, 50th Anniversary Celebrations. The new Rosie was an Outspoken, Effervescent personality who just lit up the room when she entered. She will be missed!
NANCY HILL SWABY: Rosie, you were sheer joy! A Warm and Loving classmate and friend. You will live on in my Heart!
The SAC Class of ’72 is special. Even though we all, along with Rosie, walked through the gates of SAC, and into the wide world, 54 years ago, we are still together as a class, today. What is extraordinary about our reunion is the fact that God Blessed us with having the entire Executive Team of our Student Council present, at the 50th Anniversary Reunion in 2022, THE REUNION THAT ROSIE HELPED TO PLAN: Gilda Weech House, President (Washington DC), George Loukakis, Vice President (Lyon France), Gertrude Tinker, Secretary (Atlanta Georgia), and Godfrey ‘Goffy’ Brown, Treasurer (Nassau, The Bahamas). We are proud that our footsteps, along with Rosie’s, will always echo in the hallowed halls of St. Augustine’s College where, the BEACON still shines brightly.
ROSIE, Today, we Salute You and Honor You, our very special Rose. Memories of you will remain in our hearts and on our minds, and your footprints will remain indelibly etched on the sands of time!!
SAC CLASS OF 1972
(Composed by Trevor Hanna McKay)
PALLBEARERS
BLAISE MWANDA JON MWANDA
REGGIE STUBBS
HUEL DAMES
MIKEY FOUNTAIN
ENDRIC DELEVEAUX
HONORARY PALLBEARERS
RANDOLPH MARTIN-FAWKES JOHN PAMBU
BISHOP ARNALD JOSEY
BERNARD SMITH
JOHN BLYDEN
BDELL RUSSELL
The Family Rosemary MARTIN FOUNTAIN
GODFREY (GOODY) BROWN
NATHAN MARTIN
DREXEL MARTIN
DAVE ROKER
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
For every minute spent, for every word spoken, for every condolence given, for every kindness shown, for every deed performed, for every prayer prayed, for every service rendered, the Family humbly says, Thank you and God bless you.