R Miller

HOMEGOING C E L E B R AT I O N FOR THE LIFE OF T H E L AT E

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S E R V I C E H E L D AT:

T H E C H U R CH O F G O D O F PRO PH E CY E AST ST RE E T TAB E RNACLE

East Street, Nassau, N.P. Bahamas.

SAT U R DAY S E PT E MB E R 2ND, 2023 AT 10AM O F F I C I AT I N G :

PASTO R T IMOT H Y F. JO H NS O N

Lead Pastor, Church of God of Prophecy Baillou Hill Road A S S I S T E D BY:

PASTO R RANDO LPH P. CU RT IS

Associate Pastor, Church of God of Prophecy MI NISTE R DE NVE R DAME S OT H E R MINIST E RS MUSICIANS:

DR . ANDR E H ANNA • CH AZ T H U RSTO N • E DIS O N RO LLE I N T E R M E N T:

L AK E V I E W ME MO RIAL G ARDE NS

Gladstone Road, Nassau, Bahamas

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J O U R N E Y

A T IME TO B U D

The home of Bertram and Marie Ferguson was filled with jubilation at precisely 4am on April 2nd, 1963 when the happy couple welcomed their seventh child and fifth daughter into the world. To compliment her beautiful appearance, she was given the name “Ruthlyn Roselyn”. With such a strong name, it was evident that Ruth would make an imprint, not just on her home, but her community and all those fortunate enough to encounter her.

A T IME TO B LOSS O M

After receiving homeschooling, Ruth was enrolled at the tender age of five to attend the T. Gibson Primary School. She then progressed to the SC McPherson Jr. and R.M Baily Sr. High Schools in the years 1974 and 1977, respectively. It was during her time in SC McPherson that Ruthlyn first developed her love for teaching. She marveled at the eloquence portrayed by her English teacher, and it was then that her calling to be a teacher became clear.

She was an astute student and excelled in her studies. Upon completion of high school in 1980, Ruth decided to pursue administrative studies, which resulted in her attending a local business school to obtain the necessary qualification to jumpstart her career. Upon completion, she was able to gain employment with Balfour Beaty/ Blount Cavalier Construction. At the time, the company had just won the bid to build the former Cable Beach Hotel and Casino. This was an exciting time for the country and Ruth got the opportunity to do her part R U T H LY N M I L L E R - PAGE - 3

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by working in their administrative office.

She was seen as a diligent, respectful, and dedicated worker. Upon completion of the cable beach project, Ruth quickly transitioned, and found gainful employment as a Data Processor at British American Insurance in 1978. In 1989, after being relieved of her duties due to downsizing, Ruthlyn felt her calling to teach young minds return. This was not a surprise to those that knew her. Ruth was always there to support her siblings. This included being a surrogate parent when needed. For her it was a labor of love being an aunt. She could often be seen cheering during christenings, graduations, weddings, and church programs. She made it her mission to ensure they were involved in Vacation Bible School and any other church activity that assisted in their spiritual growth. Ruth understood that “it takes a village to raise a child”.

With this understanding in mind, she applied and was accepted to attend the College of the Bahamas’ (now University of the Bahamas) Education Program to pursue an Associate Degree in early childhood education. Ruthlyn held onto God for wisdom, knowledge, and understanding as she navigated through her classes with grace. She found the studies to be exciting and she could not wait to enter the classroom where she would be able to engage her students.

Ruthlyn graduated with Honors in 1992, receiving high commendations from her lecturers and Assessment Officials due to her perfectionist attitude and exemplary

teaching skills. These commendations proved beneficial as she entered her first classroom in Ridgeland Primary School with God’s favor on her. This grace shone through as she taught class after class, year after year, guiding her students through various curricula. However, Ruthlyn’s greatest accomplishment was her ability in leading all her students in learning Bible scriptures, gospel songs, and leading them all in accepting the Lord into their hearts through reciting the Sinner’s Prayer. Ruthie put her best foot forward in the administration of her duties, and graciously contributed to the Ministry of Education for 30 years (1992 – June 2023).

LIVING A G O DLY LIFE / MINIST E RING T H RO U G H S O NG

Every aspect of Ruth’s life was guided by God. This was evident when at the tender age of 9 years old Ruth accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and personal Savior and was called to ministry. Her talent for singing was quickly recognized and nurtured under the coaching of Dr. Beulah Farquharson. Ruth was encouraged to minister through song and embark in Christian ministry. Her first solo performance was during a District Convention when she sang so beautifully and most memorably, “I Come to the Garden Alone’. Her voice touched many and assisted with leading them to Christ. She was not one to take her Christian ministry lightly, as was evident during one of the church’s crusades when the Holy Spirit took control, and she began to speak in unknown tongues. She was truly chosen by God! Ruth was renowned as a songbird. Many may know of her singing with various choirs such as the Blue Bells, The Twilights, and the Tabernacle Concert Choir, as well as praise and worship teams in New Providence and Bimini. However, many may not know that she was also a song writer. Ruthlyn was not a passive Christian. Wherever her life’s journey took her, she made it a point to find a church home and immersed herself in the work of the Lord. She played key roles in various church ministries including but not limited to Asst. Youth Director, Radio Voice Choir long standing member, Director and Asst. Women Ministry Leader, Intercessors Ministry, Ushers Ministry and Evangelism Outreach Ministry. She wanted to be used by God in whatever capacity He felt her worthy. In addition, she encouraged all members of her family to do likewise, and this influence can still be seen even now in the lives of her husband, children, siblings, nieces, and nephews.

A T IME TO LOVE : “H E S E NT ME YOU! ”

During a night at BTI, Ruthlyn met a curly haired Long Island young man by the name of Bob Miller. God also ordained this meeting as many young men had tried and failed in wooing the young damsel. This became a known joke amongst the young people of her time, especially the young men who revealed that they were too afraid to speak to Ruthlyn out of fear of her laying hands on them and seeing them for who they were in the Spirit. This joke did not deter Bob; rather it propelled him to seek after her even more. This pursuit lasted for four (4) years, and on Saturday, April 29th, 1989, Bob and Ruthlyn became one in holy matrimony. Even in this beautiful moment, Ruthlyn’s songbird talent shone through, as she released a one-time single called “He Sent Me You”. This single proved Ruthlyn to be a trendsetter of her generation as many to this day still recall the song and the beauty in the lyrics. Ruthlyn penned and sang that song from her heart as a song of thanksgiving to the Lord for answering every aspect of her prayers for a God-fearing husband to come her way. God did not disappoint, as this union lasted for 34 wonderful years, along with the addition of two (2) beautiful daughters, Gabriel Marie, and Jasmine Richa’ Miller. Bob and Ruthlyn loved each other dearly, and made many beautiful memories together, such as fishing and crab catching excursions, simple jokes and conversations about their dreams and goals individually and as a couple with God as their guide leading through them all. They were never apart for long, and even served together in various ministries, their last assignment being Evangelism Ministry Co-Directors. The love they shared was evident and continued to the very end.

A T IME TO FADE

After spending quality time with her family and sending WhatsApp messages recapping jokes of the day to relatives and friends, Ruth was extended a special invitation that was reserved especially for her. She accepted the invitation with glee and journeyed ahead. She commenced her trip during the early hours of Sunday August 13, 2023, and is now united with her first love, her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We are heartbroken that she left, but we understand that some invitations can’t be declined.

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S H E WAS PRE DE CE AS E D BY:

Her Parents: Bertram S. & Marie C. Ferguson; and Sister: Idella Ferguson-Albries

Left with loving memories are:

HER DEVOTED HUSBAND of 34 years Bob Miller; HER TWO PRECIOUS JEWELS: Gabriel and

Jasmine Miller; GRAND-DAUGHTER: Gionna Miller; SISTERS & SPOUSES: Zelma Moss, Orian (Phillip) Forbes, Joycelyn (Gregory) Musgrove; Brothers & Spouses: Harry (Joycelyn) Ferguson, Starrington (Claudette) Ferguson and Ted (Vernetta) Ferguson; MOTHER IN-LAW: Alice Miller; BROTHERS IN-LAW & SPOUSES: William (Elizabeth) Miller, Welford (Deborah) Miller, Stafford (Marguerette) Miller, Ralph Miller, Neil Miller; SISTER IN-LAW: Louise Miller; NIECES AND NEPHEWS: Keva, Perry, Barbara and Brenda Albries, Tesma (Selathiel) Lloyd, Craig Moss, Tanya (Jamaine) Thompson, Shelton (Joy), Javon (Khrystle), Taurian, Kyjia, & Kranz Ferguson, Clayton, W/Sgt. 3597 Desiree Ferguson, Monique Forbes, O’Cara (Daniel) Nixon, Olivia Forbes, Jason (Shamikka) Musgrove, Jermaine and Jewel Musgrove, Ted Jr. and Toinette Ferguson, Tenille Colebrooke, Sharlene Johnson, Courtney, Alexis and Welford Jr. (Daphne) Miller, Camera and Jezreel Outten, Carson Miller, Joshua Miller, Alicia and Nia Miller; NUMEROUS GRAND-NIECES AND NEPHEWS; AUNT: Eloise (Selathiel) Swain; COUSINS Verlene LaFleur & Family, Shane & Denise Sweeting, Wayde Sweeting & Family, Philip Sweeting & Family, and Terah Swain.

NUMEROUS GODCHILDREN; NUMEROUS RELATIVES AND FRIENDS INCLUDING: Shane Miller, Doreen Campbell & Family, Henry Ferguson & Family, Nora McClain & Family, Delvin, Joseph, Elvis, Sam, The Family of the Late Allan Ferguson, The Family of the Late Lawson Ferguson; The Generation of Bishop Nathaniel and Victoria Beneby, The Generation of Henriette Hart, Descendants of Browns Crooked Island; Bishop Dr. Brice H. Thompson & Family, Bishop Dr. Elgarnet B. Rahming & Family, Bishop Dr. Franklyn M. Ferguson & Family, Bishop Hulan A. Hanna & COGOP East Street Family, Bishop Dr. Woodley C. Thompson & Family, Bishop Dr. Ghaly Swan & COGOP Englerston Family, Pastor Timothy and Deanne Johnson & COGOP Baillou Hill Road Family, Apostles Edward and Merilee Watson & Trinity City of Praise Family, Bishop Kendal Simmons & Family, Pastor Randolph and Laverne Curtis and Family, Raymond & Karen Pratt & Family, Felix Walkine, Alsworth Rahming & Family, Williamae Bridgewater, Harry & Louise Simmons, Lelah Cunningham and Family, Deshaun Roberts and Family, Michael and Joy Tucker and Family, Mrs. Yolanda Rolle and Family, Mrs. Patrice Bodie and Family, Mrs. Dian Hanna and Family, Mrs. Judy Clarke and Family, Ms. Gina McClain and Family, Elder Denver and Merlene Dames and Family, Bis. Edmond and Lineta Ellis, Pastors Adam and KathyAnn Levarity and Family, Ministers Garrett and Olive Johnson and Family, Ministers Kenneth and Maytha Eneas and Family, Pas. Teachlet Pierre and Family, United Church of God Family, The Church of God Bimini District Family, The Bimini All Age School Family, Bailey Town Primary Family, Director and staff of the Department of Immigration, Administrators and Staff of the Cleveland Eneas Primary School, especially the beloved Grade 3 Block, Management and Staff of Bahamas Power and Light, Management and Staff of the Central Bank of the Bahamas, Members of the Bahamas Union of Teachers, Staff of the Ministry of Education Head Office and SouthEastern District.

Special Thanks to: Dr. Eugene Gray, Pedro Ferguson and the staff of East Sunrise Mortuary, and staff of Lakeview Memorial Gardens and Mausoleums. Please accept our apologies if we omitted any names. Kindly note that it was unintentional, we appreciate and are grateful for all your support.

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MUSICAL PRELUDE..................................................... “Beulah Land” ....................................Baillou Hill Road Worship Ministry ARRIVAL AND SEATING OF THE FAMILY ACKNOWLEDGING THE ETERNAL GOD WORSHIP PROCLAMATION & OPENING.................................................................................................................. Moderator SONG OF THE FAITH.............................................................................................................................................. “Master Speak” PRAYER OF INVOCATION............................................................................ Bishop Hulan Hanna (Sr. Pastor East Street COGOP) OLD TESTAMENT SCRIPTURE READING.................. Psalms 121......................................................Mrs. O’Cara Nixon (Niece) CONGREGATIONAL SONG................................................................................................................."Glad I Counted The Cost” When first I started to seek the Lord, I’m glad I counted the cost; I fully measured to Jesus’ Word; I’m glad I counted the cost.

I’ve bid farewell to this world of sin, I’m glad I counted the cost; And now my Jesus abides within, I’m glad I counted the cost.

I’ve paid the price and obtained the prize, He saved my soul that was lost; And now my treasures are in the skies, I’m glad I counted the cost.

I cast on Jesus my every care, I’m glad I counted the cost; And all my burdens He helps to bear, I’m glad I counted the cost.

I laid my sorrows at Jesus’ feet, I’m glad I counted the cost; And now I’ve pleasures so pure and sweet, I’m glad I counted the cost.

’Twill not be long till the Lord shall come, I’m glad I counted the cost; And bear my soul to that heav’nly home, I’m glad I counted the cost.

NEW TESTAMENT................................................. 1 Corinthians 15:50-58......... Toinette Ferguson and Tangia Thompson (Nieces) MUSICAL TRIBUTE........................................................................................................................ Mrs. Cheryl Moree (Co-Worker) RECANTING THE MEMORIES AS I KNEW HER.........................................................................................................................................Mrs. Judy Clarke (Friend) Min. Kaye Rolle (Close Friend) Baillou Hill Road, COGOP Former Principal (Cleveland Eneas Primary) CONDOLENCES....................................................................................Mrs. Belinda Wilson, President, Bahamas Union of Teachers PRAISE & WORSHIP.............................................................................The Baillou Hill Road COGOP Levitical Worship Ministry R U T H LY N M I L L E R - PAGE - 6

MINISTERIAL CONDOLENCES.......................................................... Apostle Edward Watson, Senior Pastor, Trinity City of Praise Elder Denver Dames, Baillou Hill Road, COGOP Bis. Woodley C. Thompson, Associate Pastor, East Street COGOP; District Overseer, Zone 1 Bis. Dr. Ghaly Swann, Senior Pastor, Englerston COGOP MUSICAL SELECTION..................................................................................................................................... Bahama Brass Band APOSTOLIC REMARKS....................................................... Bishop Dr. Franklin M. Ferguson, National Bishop, COGOP Bahamas OBITUARY................................................................................................................................................................... Read Leisurely PROCLAMATION OF THE WORD WORSHIPING THE KING.................................................................................................................The Tabernacle Concert Choir EULOGY & WORDS OF COMFORT.................................................................................................... Minister Timothy Johnson PRAYER FOR THE FAMILY...................................................................Bishop Kendal Simmons, Senior Pastor, Seven Hills COGOP EXPRESSIONS OF THANK................................................................................................................Ms. Jasmine Miller (Daughter) RECESSIONAL SONG....................................................................................................................................... Bahamas Brass Band RECESSIONAL.................................................................................................................... Levites/The Ministry/Casket/The Family

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OPENING REMARKS........................................................................................................................................................ Pastor Timothy Johnson HYMN........................................................................................................................................................................................... "Heaven’s Jubilee"

Some glad morning we shall see, Jesus in the air Coming after you and me, joy is ours to share What rejoicing there will be, when the saints shall rise Headed for that jubilee, yonder in the skies Oh what singing, oh what shouting On that happy morning when we all shall rise Oh what glory, Hallelujah When we meet our blessed Savior in the skies Seems that now I almost see, all the sainted dead Rising for that jubilee, that is just ahead In the twinkling of an eye, changed with them to be All the living saints to fly, to that jubilee.

When with all that heavenly host, we begin to sing Singing in the Holy Ghost, how the heavens will ring Millions there will join the song, with them we shall be Praising Christ through ages long, heaven’s jubilee.

PRAYER............................................................................................................................................................................ Pastor Randolph Curtis Sr. COMMITTAL...................................................................................................................................................................... Pastor Timothy Johnson

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HYMNS.................................................................................................................................................................................................... "It Is Well"

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 Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come Let this blest assurance control That Christ hath regarded my helpless estate And hath shed His own blood for my soul It is well with my soul It is well, it is well with my soul My sin, oh, 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, it is well with my soul It is well with my soul It is well, it is well with my soul And Lord, haste the day when my 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 It is well with my soul It is well, it is well with my soul It is well, it is well with my soul

" W H E N W E A L L G E T TO H E AV E N "

Sing the wondrous love of Jesus, Sing His mercy and His grace; In the mansions bright and blessed He’ll prepare for us a place.

When we all get to Heaven, What a day of rejoicing that will be!

When we all see Jesus, We’ll sing and shout the victory!

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

Let us then be true and faithful, Trusting, serving every day; Just one glimpse of Him in glory Will the toils of life repay.

Onward to the prize before us!

Soon His beauty we’ll behold; Soon the pearly gates will open; We shall tread the streets of gold.

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" M AY H I S P E AC E B E W I T H YO U T I L W E M E E T AG A I N "

May His peace be with you till we meet again May His peace be with you till we meet again Till we reach that distant shore And we'll shed a tear no more May He give you strength to endure Till we meet again Till we meet again [x2] May His peace be with you till we meet again May His peace be with you till we meet again When we reach that promised land And we're walking hand in hand May He give you strength to stand Till we meet again, we meet again May His love be with you till we meet again May His love be with you till we meet again Till we walk those streets of gold Where we'll never never never never grow old I'll find rest for my soul Till we meet again Till we meet again May His peace be with you till we meet again May His peace be with you till we meet again Till we reach that distant shore And we'll shed a tear no more May He give you strength to endure May He give you strength to endure May He give you strength to endure Till we meet again Till we meet again Till we meet again Till we meet again ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS............................................................................................................................. East Sunrise Mortuary

CLOSING PRAYER...................................................................................................................................... Minister Anastacia Pratt BENEDICTION....................................................................................................................................... Pastor Randolph Curtis Sr.

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My Rosy Baby When your heart is ripped to shreds and someone tells you it will be alright as life goes on, one will have to see that through faith in the God of Jacob. Looking through tears of love and a very sad and broken heart, it is not visible. My true life’s PARTNER has departed and gone to be with our Lord. Now no more late-night teas, all night talks or my biggest Fan in Life.

Thirty-four years of marriage were the best years of my life; we had hard times, we sorrowed for our deceased ones together, and we held each other no matter the difficulties we experienced in life. We were together and prayed and loved

each other and our children. Now you are no longer here with me to enjoy the rest of our lives together.

The hardest thing for me to experience is when something goes wrong with you and I cannot fix or change the circumstances.

This just plunders my emotions to not be able to help my Rosy Baby. I lived with you and I know that you are with JESUS. Absent from the children and I, but present with the Lord.

As you requested for me to continue to love and watch over our children and grandchild/ren, ensuring no one takes advantage or mistreats them… “I WILL”

WITH ALL MY LOVE, BOB

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MamaBear

TO M Y B E S T F R I E N D,

MyMommy “Love you too Baby”, these were the last

words you said to me before you passed. Mommy, I have no words to say about you leaving us, but all I can say is Thank you. Thank you for showing me the love of a mother for the last 24 years. Thank you for teaching me so many valuable life lessons that I can use to navigate through this world now that you’re gone.

Thank you for singing your “Sweet Brown Sugar I Love You” song to brighten my day or to simply make me laugh. Thank you for teaching me how to cook, bake, and care for a home like you did. Thank you for teaching me how to think for myself and to be independent, confident, yet humble and willing to receive help, instruction and advice from others.

But most importantly, thank for you teaching and showing me what a God-fearing woman looks like; teaching me how to pray and seek the face of God for any and everything, regardless of whether or not I have the answers; and teaching me to never doubt or question God when He speaks or acts on my behalf because it is always for my good.

Mommy, I will miss our spiritual advisor sessions, our bonding moments, whether we’re watching TV together, talking and laughing about jokes of the day, listening to each other vent about the challenges of the day, or cooking and baking together, i.e. you wanting to test a recipe and sending me in the kitchen to follow your instructions. I will miss being your sous chef, human arm rest, shopping buddy, purse carrier, laughing buddy, singing partner, foot massager, shoe steward, but most importantly, your daughter. I thank God that He allowed me to serve alongside and under you for 24 years, and for granting me the ability to be a blessing to you as much as you were to me. I wish we had more time to argue over who loves the other more, but I am comforted knowing that God loves you better than I ever could. I remember one of our conversations before you left, where you laughed and joked about how you couldn’t wait to get your new body, and how it will be better than all the top female celebrities out there. Well Mommy, you now have the new body and life you prayed and worked so hard in the Master’s service for. Enjoy it to the fullest, and I will do my best, with God’s guidance, to see you again. Continue to take your well-deserved rest in the arms of Jesus, and know that I will always love and cherish you as the Queen of our home, and the Queen of my heart.

Wow, how can I say thank you for all the things you have done for me. You were there to watch me experience life as a little girl and now as a young woman. Even though we had our moments where I wasn’t the best daughter at times, you still loved me no matter what. Losing you was not easy, but cherishing the memories we shared will be an absolute joy to my heart. You showed me the love of a mother so that I can be the best mother possible to Gionna. I will tell her stories about the amazing grand-mother she had, who prayed for her, cared for her, and loved her unconditionally. I love and miss you so much, but I take comfort knowing that God loves you best. Continue to rest in Paradise, and know that you will forever be in my heart until we meet again.

LOV E YO U R A S A B O O, G A B R I E L

A T R I B U T E TO

MyMama

Mama: “I Love you Baby G, Gramma child” Gionna: “I you” LOV E , G I O N N A

TO M Y B A BY S I S T E R

Ruth

Oh, my baby sister Ruth, you left me without saying goodbye, like a whisper in the night. To lose you, my baby sister, my close friend, is like a bad dream, but now I see that it is unfortunately a reality.

Memories of our time together swim in my mind. All I can utter is thank you. I thank you for being you!! I thank you for the bond we had, and I thank you for all the wonderful memories we shared. Most of all I thank you for being my pillar of strength and always being there for me. With a heavy heart and a bucket of tears, I now must try to live through each day without you. No more visits on your way from school, or the calls Saturday morning to say Bob is stopping by with a package of my favorite native fruits. Or planning a combined family lunch after church. Know that I will forever love you, goodbye my Ruthie until we meet again in heaven.

F R O M Z E L M A ( YO U R B I G S I S )

TO M Y D E A R E S T “ L I T T L E ” ,

BigSister

F R O M YO U R SW E E T B R OW N S U G A R , JA S M I N E

It seems so surreal to be writing this note. Ruth, you were more than a sister; you were my friend, advisor, and confidant. Thank you for the memories you have left with me and our families. We were privileged to visit you on islands that we may not have visited on our own. We will cherish your memory for now and bid you farewell, until we meet again.

T E D, V E R N E T TA A N D T H E C H I L D R E N .

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A T R I B U T E TO

MySister

Although Ruthlyn was younger than I, whenever she felt that anyone was taking advantage of me, she would graciously rise up and defend me. Whenever there was a crisis in my life, she would offer all the counselling that she knew. After that she would begin to pray, and she would continue praying until the situation was resolved. Sometimes I would become anxious, and I would ask her if she was still praying, and her response would be “I pray for my siblings every day, and sometimes I pray for them twice a day, as the Lord placed them in my spirit.”

We look similar, and occasionally someone may address her as Orian. However, as they looked closer, they realized that a mistake had been made. Then they would ask if I was her sister.

That would always cause her to smile. She was a confidential person, which is quite rare today. Last year she suggested that both of us should retire as we were the only ones among our siblings that were still working.

A few months ago, I noticed that she was not calling me frequently. I do not know if it was intentional or not. Then Saturday, 5th August 2023, I picked up the telephone and called her. She did not answer, therefore the call went to voice mail. About three hours later, she called to inquire if I had called her? I told her that I did, and I asked her why she did not answer my call? She gave me some lame excuses. Therefore, I told her in the future whenever she sees my number, please answer my call. I called her shortly afterwards and I informed her that I had some guineps for her, which was one of her favorite fruits. She laughed and said that God had a sense of humor, because she had recently purchased some for another sister, but she did not purchase any for herself. Arrangements for them to be picked up were made.

On Sunday, 13th August 2023, her voice was no more. I am confident that she had fought a good fight. She had finished her race, and she had kept the faith. She cannot come to me, but I will go to her.

Farewell my precious sister, my love for you and your family will never end.

Ruth, you left us without warning, but you left us with so many memories that we will forever cherish.

ORIAN FORBES (SISTER)

TO M Y

Baby Sister

O U R AU N T R U T H Our beloved Aunt Ruth was a gift that brightened our lives in countless ways, and her memory will forever be etched in our hearts. Her infectious laughter could light up even the darkest of days, and her kindness knew no bounds. She had a unique ability to make everyone around her feel loved and cherished, leaving an indelible mark on all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Aunt Ruth was a source of unwavering support and guidance, always ready with a listening ear and shoulder to lean on. Her patience was a source of comfort to us all, and her legacy will continue to inspire us as we tread this life’s journey. Whether through her delicious homemade meals, her heartfelt advice, or her warm and genuine hugs, she had a way of making us feel safe and cherished. Her absence leaves a void that cannot be filled, but her spirit will forever live on in the countless memories we shared.

As we reflect on her life and the love she showered upon us, we will remember the lessons she taught us about compassion, resilience, and the importance of family. In honoring her memory, we strive to carry forward her legacy of love and kindness, spreading the warmth she brought into our lives to others who need it. Though she may be physically absent, her love, laughter, and spirit will forever resonate within us. Rest peacefully, Aunt Ruth, knowing that you are deeply loved and sincerely missed.

With much love, P E R RY, K E VA , B A R B A R A & B R E N DA

RUTHIE

Ruth, you were so dear to me. You always made yourself available when the family needed you. You were always the Master of Planning and Organizing, as you always knew how to put things together for the family to enjoy. I will miss you so much, but I know that God has you in His arms. Continue to take your rest, and know that I will do my best to meet you in Heaven one day.

LOV E YO U R B I G B R OT H E R , S TA R

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“AuntRuth”

She was a ray of light that shone brightly even on the darkest of nights.

The warm vibrato of her laughter and humorous jokes always left us gasping for breath but it felt nourishing to the soul. Our aunt truly was a rare flower that bloomed to grant us a lifetime of memories and lessons, and for that we say thank you. Shell shocked by her sudden departure we still say thank you. For the life she lived, the legacy she left behind, the lives she touched, we say thank you.

LOV E TJ A N D TOY

TO O U R AU N T

TO O U R U N F O R G E T TA B L E

AuntRuth

How can we say “goodbye” to someone that we have loved for a lifetime? We keep waiting to wake up from a dream, but morning comes, and we must face the reality that you are truly gone. You left us such wonderful memories. What we really appreciated was your hands-on approach to being an aunt. Our fondest memories were accompanying you to church conventions, summer schools and beach trips.

We can go on and on regarding the wonderful ways you touched our lives. Be it kind words that ended with I love you or coaching when needed. You had no issues helping us appreciate another point of view. You were good at the art of persuasion. Your special touches were our secret when it came to planning weddings. This was truly the case with Tanya’s because you were residing in Bimini. We will forever be grateful for how you assisted mom with healing after our dad passed. The family vacation to Bimini was what she truly needed. Bonding as a family was so important to you.

You were our second mom! We can’t believe your voice will not be heard again. The morning WhatsApp’s greetings are no more. We have no clue how to adapt to you not being physically here. Oh, the jokes and stories shared over the years! We laugh and then cry while recalling them.

Your departure has placed a dent in our core that can never be filled. Know that we loved you like no other and will never be the same now that you are gone. We thank you for the love you have given not only to us but to your grand-nieces and nephews. We will forever be grateful and appreciate you for everything that you have done.

You are simply unforgettable! Until we see you again LOV E T E S SY, C R A I G A N D TA N YA

Ruth

Ruth was not just a relative; she was a friend, a sister, an aunt and a beacon of light in our lives. Her warmth and kindness knew no bounds, and her ability to bring people together was truly remarkable. Whether it was her infectious laughter, her wise counsel, or her unwavering support, Ruth had a way of making everyone around her feel cherished and valued. One of our favorite memories was the many summers we spent with her and Uncle Bob, playing with Gabby and Jasmine, traveling around the island of Bimini or vacationing in the US. Those were some of the best memories we had our time with you, and we really thought we had more time to make more.

Thought I had more time for my son Zane to spend with you to experience how great, kind and loving of a person you were as you were with me. You raise me like your own and set a foundation in my life that still impacts me and my family to this day. You would do your best to help our family in whatever way you can. You and Uncle Bob were always kind and selfless. We can never repay your unconditional love towards us. As we remember Ruth, let us celebrate the joy she brought to our lives and the love she shared so generously. While we mourn her passing, let us also find solace in the memories we hold dear and the lessons she imparted.

May Ruth’s spirit live on in the stories we share, the laughter we echo, and the love we spread. Let us honor her memory by living our lives with the same zest and compassion that she showed us. Til’ we meet again.

JA S O N , J E R M A I N E A N D J E W E L

T R I B U T E TO M Y AU N T Y R U T H There are so many things I can talk about. So many memories that I can pull on. So many lessons that you have taught me from my childhood that I still practice now and teach to my kids. I could never forget when you sent me to the grocery store with a list. I brought back everything you had sent me for, but I had decided to help myself to 5 cents from the change to buy gum. I came back chewing away. When you found out how I bought the gum, with your 5 cents change….let’s just say from that point on I never, ever did that again!

Ever since you slipped away, all I have been doing is singing. Singing praises, singing about His goodness. And I ponder if there is such a thing as the Mantle of the Songbird. Oh, this one hit real hard! But I know this is not the end. I mourn with hope, and I know that I will see you again. Rest on my Aunty. I will always love you.

FROM CARA ( DA N N Y, DA N T E , A DAYA- R U T H )

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PA L L B E A R E R S CRAIG MOSS JERMAINE MUSGROVE KRANZ FERGUSON DANIEL NIXON

SHELTON FERGUSON JASON MUSGROVE JAMAINE THOMPSON SR. SELATHIEL LLOYD

H O N O R A RY PA L L B E A R E R S HARRY FERGUSON WILLIAM MILLER WELFORD MILLER PHILLIP FORBES

STARRINGTON FERGUSON TED FERGUSON SR. STAFFORD MILLER NEIL MILLER