SEPTEMBER 30TH, 1959 - JULY 23RD, 2024
Marsha WILSON COX
Age: 64 yrs.
Sunrise: September 30th, 1959
Sunset: July 23rd, 2024
Service Held:
ST PAUL’S METHODIST CHURCH
Beachway Drive,
Freeport, Grand Bahama
The Bahamas
AUGUST 17TH, 2024 AT 11:00 A.M.
Officiating: REV. KENNETH LEWIS
Assisted By: OTHER MINISTERS OF THE GOSPEL
Internent: GRAND BAHAMA
MEMORIAL PARK
Freeport, Grand Bahama
The Bahamas
Marsha WILSON COX
“Who can find a virtuous woman for her price is far above rubies”
On September 30th 1959, in the pristine settlement of Nicholls Town, Andros, Bahamas, a beautiful bouncing baby girl was born to the proud parents Rev Nehemiah Boy Wilson and Maud Alberta Colbey - Wilson (both deceased). They both agreed to naming their newest bundle of joy Vanria Marsha, who would become the third addition to their wonderful family. Vanria brought such joy and happiness to their home and they loved her dearly.
Vanria started her early education at The Nicholls Town Primary school and later on continued her education at The North Andros High School, where she excelled greatly, graduating as Head Girl of that institution. While attending high school Vanria became very active in social clubs around the school and outside of school. She participated in her high school pageant where her radiant beauty and brains stood out amongst the other participants, thus allowing her to capture the title of Miss North Andros High. Some time after graduating high school, she made the decision to relocate to Grand Bahama Island where she would begin her search for gainful employment in order for her to be able to better assist her parents with their daily needs.
“ To serve the present age, my calling to fulfill, oh may it all my powers engaged, to do my masters will”
Upon Arriving to Grand Bahama, she speedily obtained employment at The Shalimar Beach Hotel, as an office administrator. After working in that role for a few years she later transferred to the hotels Accounting and Finance Department where she obtained the role of Accounts Payable and Receivables Clerk. She later on, after a few years, decided to resign from Shalimar Beach Hotel upon receiving gainful employment at The Xanadu Beach Hotel, Freeport, Grand Bahama, also in that company’s Accounting and Finance Department. Her time at Xanadu was most enjoyable and she excelled greatly, so much so, that the hotel owner decided that he saw it fit for her to not only a obtain managerial position at Xanadu Beach Hotel, but that she would simultaneously become a manager at another one of his properties, The Royal Palm Hotel, Freeport, Grand Bahama in the same job capacity.
While managing both jobs, Vanria found time to attend classes during the evening hours so that she could become certified in the field of Accounting. This she did with great joy and she excelled greatly as she managed to obtain her certification with honors. Vanria also went to further her studies for a short while in Nassau, Bahamas where she obtained yet another certification in the field of Accountancy. While being employed at both The Xanadu Beach Hotel and The Royal Palm Hotel and also after receiving her official certifications as an Accountant, Vanria again was on the move as she obtained employment at the Sunland Lutheran School, Freeport, Grand Bahama, which later on had an ownership change, which resulted in the institutions name being changed to Sunland Baptist Academy. She was employed at the mentioned institution for a period of seventeen (17) years. During her time, while employed at Sunland, she built so many great relationships with staff members, hundreds of students, and parents alike. She was constantly verbally celebrated by ownership and board members about the excellent work that she was doing
as the schools Accountant and Office Administrator. Board members and owners would rave over how they saw such a great increase in the collection of school fees and how well their expenses were being managed every year, thus allowing them to see greater and greater profit each year. Her role at Sunland was dear to her heart, as she became so much more than an Accountant and Administrator. Oftentimes arriving at work far ahead of working hours and departing for the day far beyond her “knocking off” hours. She became a personal guidance counselor to many students, parents and even sometimes her colleagues. After her seventeen (17) year tenure at Sunland it was extremely unfortunate that as a result of her unclean working environment over the years, that she became ill due to the discovery of mold fungus residing inside the office where she worked for years. It was even more unfortunate that board members and owners did not see it fit to have the matter addressed and thoroughly cleaned in a hasty manner, which resulted in her illness becoming more pressing which eventually resulted in it becoming extremely difficult for her to manage her illness while working at that institution.
During her healthy and vibrant days, back in 2010 while working at Sunland Baptist, Vanria was determined that notwithstanding her current age, that she wanted to pursue obtaining an Associate Degree and later on pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting. She eagerly enrolled at The Bahamas Institute of Business and Technology formerly known as Success Training College where she later graduated in the year 2012 with honors, successfully obtaining her Associate Degree in Accounting Systems Management.
“My love, there’s only you in my life, the only thing that’s right. My first Love, you’re every breath that I take, you’re every step that I take”
It was the year 1991 where she met her soulmate Mr. Gustavus McDonald Cox, a man who fell in love with her wholeheartedly and she the same, as it relates to him. The two had an inseparable bond. A love relationship like none other. Their love and affection for each other was so natural and seamless. Vanria would oftentimes travel to the Turks & Caicos Islands to spend time with Gustavus as he resided on the island for work purposes. He too, on any given work break would immediately find his way to Grand Bahama to spend time with Vanria. In the year 1996 the two officially
VANRIA MARSHA WILSON - COX
“ A Charge to keep I have a God to glorify a never denying soul to save fitted for the sky”
Vanria was a devoted christian woman. She was a God fearing woman and a prayer warrior. She loved God wholeheartedly and oftentimes would encourage her husband, two sons and her entire family to seek God first, to trust him and to know that he is an able God. Her goal was to see her entire family baptized and to have them commit their lives to christ. She started her christian journey as a tithing member of The St Paul’s Methodist Church, Freeport, Grand Bahama where she was very active in the churches women’s ministry, youth ministry and also she became an intricate member of the churches choir. She later on transitioned to becoming a member of The St John’s Jubilee Cathedral for many years where she again became extremely active in that church and ensured that her tithes were paid. After falling ill and as a result of her receiving no assistance from her then Pastor of St John’s Jubilee Cathedral, Bishop Godfrey Williams, who at that time simultaneously was her boss of the institution where she was employed (Sunland Baptist), she decided to withdraw her membership at St John’s Jubilee and returned to her church home at St. Paul’s Methodist. When she returned to St. Paul’s Methodist, it was almost as if she never left a day in her life. She was welcomed with open arms, and she jumped right back into becoming active in the progression of the church. Almost immediately after board members and her Pastor, Rev. Brian Seymour, among other members, learned of her illness, without hesitation they began to offer to help her in any way possible. After her illness worsened and she became unable to attend church her pastor Rev. Seymour among other members visited her at least once per month to ensure that she received communion, and would always come bearing some sort of gift, whether it be in the form of a floral arrangement or oftentimes some sort of grocery item. In recent times the women’s ministry of St Paul’s Methodist church discussed with her their plans to help in donating funds toward her being able to receive another portable oxygen concentrator to replace the small one which she had that had gone bad. Assisting with the replacement of the portable oxygen concentrator would allow for her to be able to possibly attend church again, since the concentrator would be small and easy for her to carry around.
It was a normal day back in 2016, just as any other day when Vanria proceeded to her place of employment at Sunland Baptist, as she usually would. After being in office for only a few short hours she expressed that she was not feeling very well and had to be taken to hospital. Several tests were ran, and it was discovered that she was experiencing respiratory issues and was advised by doctors of the Rand Memorial Hospital that she should look into traveling to the United States for more in depth testing and treatment. Since that somber day in 2016, she was unable to return to work. Due to the time frame that she was out of office, she eventually had come to the point where she had used all of her company allotted sick days, which resulted in a halt as it related to her being paid her salary. During the same year 2016, she began seeking further medical attention both locally at Rand Memorial Hospital and other private medical institutions and also abroad at Cleveland Clinic in Weston Florida. She also traveled to Canada on several occasions to attend doctors. Due to the fact that her place of employment Sunland Baptist did not see fit to have its staff members protected by medical insurance of any sort, Vanria was left with the responsibility of covering all costs related to her doctor visits, testing and treatment on her own. Thankfully, she had a loving husband, sons and other family members who pitched in and were able to help her financially in order for her to be able to keep up with doctor visits, testing and treatment that she needed both locally and abroad. As
her medical bills over the years started to become a bit of a struggle for her family to bear, she thought it a great idea to reach out to the owners of Sunland Baptist and her then church Pastor Bishop Godfrey Williams to seek financial assistance in order for her to be able to continue receiving the care and attention that she needed in order for her to effectively battle her illness, both locally and abroad and also to be able to help ease the financial burden that her family was coping with. To her surprise the response from the owners was that there was nothing they could do to assist her. This later resulted in her having to file a personal lawsuit against Sunland Baptist and its owners, inorder for her to try and gain some type of financial assistance so that she could continue receiving treatment, since at this time it was already long discovered that the the results of her experiencing respiratory issues was due to her coming in constant contact with mold that was in her office at Sunland Baptist. Her office as well as her private home were both tested by professionals for mold and the finding of mold was prevalent in her work office at Sunland. After what she felt was an unnecessarily long drawn out legal battle with the school, she agreed to settle for a mere dollar figure that was far less that what she and her family had already spent out of pocket in order for her to be able to go on with receiving treatment without delay and to help with easing the financial strain that was placed on her family.
Vanria was an elegant, Sophisticated and Beautiful lady who naturally captured the attention of a room when she entered without even having to utter one word. She was a devoted wife to her husband, a devoted mother to her two sons and devoted grandmother to her two grandchildren. She took on the role as a second mother to her daughter-in-law and took this role very seriously. Vanria was the pillar of strength for many of her siblings and her nieces and nephews. Always being that listening ear and that giver of keen knowledge and advice.
“Oh the soul thrilling rapture when I view his blessed face, and the luster of his kindly beaming eye; how my full heart will praise him for the mercy, love, and grace that prepares me for a mansion in the sky”
As the evening hours drew near and darkness began to fall on July 23rd 2024, Vanria received a call from the Lord to come home. She fought for a period of eight (8) years trying to regain her health and God saw that she was weary and thought that she should struggle no more. Heaven’s gates opened up and God called his child home to be at peace and to rest her soul in his loving arms. We believe that he uttered the words said in Matthew 25:23 “Well done my good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things; I will put you in charge of many things: enter though into the joy of the Lord.”
Holding on to precious memories and awaiting the glad reunion are:
HER LOVING HUSBAND: Gustavus Cox Sr.;
SONS: Vaccaro Wilkinson and Gustavus Cox II (Michaela Forbes);
DAUGHTER-IN-LAW: Melissa Wilkinson;
GRANDSON: Shakur Seymour;
GRANDDAUGHTER: Armani Wilkinson;
BROTHER: Ricardo “Rex” Wilson;
SISTERS: Mary Fynes, Helen Tillach, Penal Woodside, Vernell Rubke, Patrice and Patricia Wilson;
ADOPTED CHILDREN: Stefan Rahming, Tristan Knowles, Shaneka Wilkinson, Shavanda Nicholls and Shaneka Wilkinson,Tomii Culmer, Felica (Dixie) Frazier, Kadesha Culmer and Owen Gibson;
ADOPTED SIBLINGS: Karen Brennen, Jeff and Jane Wilson, Michelle Rahming, Henry Wilson, Linda Oliver, Lashawn and Shanez Wilson, Jackie Newton, Henson and Tencie Evans, Gail Roberts, Father Neil Nairn, Ray Nairn, and Rochelle Thurston.
ADOPTED GRANDCHILDREN: Caiden and Keanna Taylor
BROTHERS-IN-LAW: Armando Rubke; Shervin Tillach Sr, Anthony Woodside, Nathaniel “Junior” Cox, Morriston Cox; Sisters-in-law: Lavern Wilson; Rosalie Cox, Stephanie Cox;
NIECES AND NEPHEWS: Karus Fynes (Keishel), Bernique Wilson, Raynado & Shervin Tillach Jr, Alexander Rahming Jr, Cordeia Munnings, Brenton, Rakeisha, Ricardo, and Rickia Wilson, Romado Tucker, Kylon Newton, Neshann Rose (Charles), Shanae Butler (Apostle Leroy), and Simone, Alecia Rahming, Carlos Ramsey, Norma Fynes, Twanya Frith (Clevon), Jovette Harvey (Don), Lekisha Payoute (Kerry), Shandria Parker (Andino), Randell Deveaux, Nathia Cox-Smith (Kenneth), Lamon Cox
UNCLE: John Wilson;
AUNTS: Pemula and Dorothy Coleby; GRAND NIECES AND NEPHEWS: Kaelum and Kemuel Fynes, Sidney Rolle Jr, A’Lijah and A’Laysia Desir, Rhaya Bullard, Brayden Wilson, Kayleigh and Kayrie Saunders, Royell Butler, Alexander Rahming III, Cleannya FrithEdwards (Curvin) Clevon Jr and Twanisha Frith, Andino Jr, Ashaun and Adari Parker, Kerriann and Kiajah Payoute, Dontaye and Don Harvey, Ka’Myah and Alexiou Rolle Jr, La’mori Cox and Jai’ya Farrington;
GREAT GRAND NEPHEW: Curvin Edwards Jr;
GODCHILDREN: Sanchina Rodgers, Kendra Woods and Felix Bowe.
A HOST OF OTHER RELATIVES AND FRIENDS: Cassie Curry and Family, Jonathan, Pastor Cardinal (Valarie), Maxwell (Portia) and Elvie Woods, Timothy, Ashwell and Marvin Wilson, Franklin Brown, Kelsev Strachan, Micheal, (Cynthia) Colebrooke, Simon Barr, Zina Smith, Louise (Della) and Rodrese Bowe, Leona Wallace and Family,
Althea Wallace and Family, Rosnell Evans and Family Georgie Rhondina, Princess, Elanor and Delerese Wilson, Dora (Wendell) Evans, Withlean Obrien and Neville & Jessie Dorsett, Zera Woods and family, Jillian, Jovan andJamal Evans, Anita Miller, Veronica Dean, Althea Grant, Annis Hensley Ambrister, and NeressaHamilton, Rosie and Farley Williams of Nassau, Louise and Lou Glinton of Miami. Betty andEthlyn Gibbs of Turks and Caicos, Majorie Cox of Provo, Helena Greene and Family, Edith and Gailey Delancy and Family, Keeler and Lloyd Grant and Family. Brenetta, James Bullard,Victoria and Shirlean Rolle, Rosetta, Kinsley Murray, Iona, Pastor Mark Knowles, Engret andBeltrum Curry, Patrice and Rick Cox, Barbadella and Rev. Rudolph McKinney, Gretta andWayne McKenzie of Abaco. Elder Velma Smith, Esmae Cox, Brenda Williams, Fitzroy Antoine of Nassau, Alrica and Larry Williams of Abaco Robert and Leona Hall and Ann Dean, Alvin and Bernadette Forbes, Floretta Gibbs (Turks and Caicos Island), WithleanForbes, Wellington Dean, Herbert and Sheba Gibbs, Anthony and Valderine Hamilton, Richardand Syann Gibbs, Audley and Sonia Gibbs, George Gibbs, Eddison Gibbs, Hanfred and LavernGreene of Turks and Caicos, Donley Cox of Florida, Alpha Gibbs of Washington, Fernley andOdell Cox of Abaco, Lisa Cox and Family, Kay, Trudy, Josephine, Danny, Patrice and Lynden(Cox), Linderia Cox and Family, Noel, Barry Ewing and Family Bishop Reno Smith and Family,Reverend and Mrs. Raymond Neilly, Lakeva Nesbitt, Karen (Arlington) Rahming, EdwinaBrown, Cherley Kelly, Ricky (Angie), Cynteche, Coleby, Judith, Avlyn (Ishmell) Grant, Gregory,Kendrick, Richard (Mary), Rendal, Magistrate Lennox (Joy), Dennis, Elcott (Sharon), Dwight, Carson (Michelle), Jeffrey (Manvella), Andrew, Barone (Phillipa), Rossano, Rocco, Branford,Lawrence Jr and Derek Coleby, Elcine Pickstock, Romina (Ricardo) King, Rosetta (Maxwell) Adderley, Rhonda (Ellison) Moncur, Helen, Angela, Lynette, Desmond, Tova, Stacy, Indera,Kevin, Sophia, Anethra Coleby, Veldia, Vanessa and Alginald (Marcia) Coleby, Mrs. Irma L.Coleby (Wayde) of Turks
Island and Family, Jerome and Judson Hendfield, Sheila Rolle and Family, Marguretta Lightbourne and Family, Catherine Clarke and Family, Rosie (Jeffrey)Collins and Family, Marina Maillis, Linda (Stanley) Wildgoose and Family, Edamae Rolle and Shawn Pickstock, Rex , Shandice and Rexy Rolle and Family, The Management and staff of Western Air, Pet and Kenneth Smith, Bishop Theophilus Rolle and Family, Rev. Kenneth Lewis and Family, Rev. Brian Seymour and the Members of St Paul’s Methodist Church, Rev Raymond R. Neilly and members of Mt Zion Wesley Methodist Church and the entire Andros Circuit, Members of Heritage of Redeeming Love Methodist Church and Rhodes Memorial Methodist Church (Nassau, Bahamas), The Womens Ministry of St Paul’s Methodist Church, Earl andBarbra Deveaux and Family, Arnold and Geraldene Dorsett and Family, Audley and Marina Greaves, Ivan and Clara Mcphee, Clara Evans and Family,Cyril Peet and Family, Verdant Scott and Family, Janet Bain, Cleora Pratt, Ellerston and Daphne Smith, Mervyn Jr (Margarett) and Brenda Fynes, Varnet and Mandy Coleby Dean, Lieutenant Commander Lennox Coleby Jr. RBDF, SarahLombardi, Bonnie Basden and Family, Orlando and Paulette Maxwell and Family, Martha Lockhart and Family, Dayle Bain, Amanda Bain-Robinson and Family, Rhonda Haven and Family, Rev. Beulahmae Fowler and Family, Pastor Dion Gibson and Family, Pastor Ed and Patricia Ambrister and Family, Arthur “Ted” Rahming and Family, Dr. Carolyn Rolle and Family, Arnette Watson and Family, Alexis Mackey, Clarise Evans and Family, Caston Evans andFamily, Zendal Evans and Family, Satfford Evans and Family, Janet Storr and Family, Iva Dean and Family, Pastor Harris Evans and Family, Mazie, Derry, Shanell, Justice Milton, Tony Evans and Family Chief Magistrate Carolyn Vougt and Family, The entire Evans Town Family (Andros), Gary (Jerri),and Lenny (Marsha) McDonald and Family, Perry and Ingrid Scott, Carlise Wallace and Family The family of the Late David and Maude Romer, The Family of the late Jonathan and Kirklyn Rolle, The Coleby Family (Mastic Point), Griffith and Vernice Williams and Family. Jena Major and Family, John and Charlotte Armbrister and Family, Jason Adderley and family, Alex Thompson and Family, Lilly and Michael Knowles, Cardi Newton, Eddie, The management and staff of Gustavus Augusta, The management and staff of Creative Avenues (Nassau) Reginald and Florence Dean and Family, Sidney and Tanya Sawyer and Family, Huel Deveaux and Family, Renee Higgs and Family, Beth Chatelain and Family, Ernestine Young and Family, Simeon and Marion Sweeting and Family, The entire community of North Andros, Mr. Sherlyn Woodside and Family, Reginald and Albertha Dames and Family, The Christie Family (Andros) The Hutchinson Family (Andros), The Riley Family (Andros), The Sumner Family (Andros), The Woodside Family (Andros), The management and staff of Westside Memorial Mortuary, Management and Staff Bethel Brothers Morticians, Dr. Nadia Martinez Galvis the pulmonary team of Cleveland Clinic (Weston Florida), Dr. Odia Stubbs, Dr.Kristen Adderly and the nurses at the Rand Memorial Hospital.
MUSICAL PRELUDE ......................................................................
St. Paul’s Church Choir
PROCESSION OF FAMILY .....................................................................................................
RECEPTION OF THE BODY & OPENING SENTENCES .............. Ministers of the Gospel
Minister: I Am the Resurrection and the Life, says the Lord; he who believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live; and whosoever lives and believes in me shall never die.
Minister: The hour is coming and now is, when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God, and those who hear will live.
Minister: We brought nothing into this world and it is certain we shall carry nothing out. The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away. Blessed be the name of the Lord.
Minister: If we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord; so then, whether we live or whether we die, we are the Lord’s. For to this end Christ died and lived again that He might be Lord both of the dead and of the living.
Minister: Our Saviour Christ Jesus abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the Gospel.
Minister: I am the first and the last, I am he who lives and was dead, and behold I am alive for evermore and I have the keys of death and of hell
Minister: Because I live, you will live also.
Minister: And death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain, for the first things are passed away.
OPENING HYMN
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.
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
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.
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
Jubilee"
OPENING PRAYER ......................................................................................................................................... Minister St Paul’s Methodist ChuRCH
RESPONSIVE READING ......................................................................................................................................................................... Psalm 91 1:16
THE GLORIA PATRI TO BE CHANTED ................................................................................................................................................... (All Standing) Glory be to the Father And to the Son and to the Holy Ghost, As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be World without end, Amen.
1st SCRIPTURE READING: Ecclesiastes 12:1-14 ........................................................................................................................... Randell Deveaux
Reader: This is the Word of the Lord.
Congregation: Thanks be to God
CONGREGATIONAL HYMN............................................................................................................................."Where The Soul Of Man Never Dies"
To Canaan’s land I’m on my way, Where the soul never dies; My darkest night will turn to day, Where the soul never dies.
Refrain: No sad farewells, No tear-dimmed eyes; Where all is love, And the soul never dies.
A rose is blooming there for me, Where the soul never dies; And I will spend eternity, Where the soul never dies. [Refrain]
A love light beams across the foam, Where the soul never dies; It shines to light the shores of home, Where the soul never dies. [Refrain]
My life will end in deathless sleep, Where the soul never dies; And everlasting joys I’ll reap, Where the soul of man never dies. [Refrain]
I’m on my way to that fair land, Where the soul of man never dies; Where there will be no parting hand, Where the soul never dies. [Refrain]
2ND SCRIPTURE READING: ROMANS 8:38-39 .......................................................................................................................
Reader: This is the Word of the Lord.
Congregation: Thanks be to God
Far away the noise of strife upon my ear is falling, Then I know the sins of earth beset on every hand; Doubt and fear and things of earth in vain to me are calling, None of these shall move me from Beulah Land.
Refrain:
I’m living on the mountain, underneath a cloudless sky; I’m drinking at the fountain that never shall run dry; O yes! I’m feasting on the manna from a bountiful supply, For I am dwelling in Beulah Land.
Far below the storm of doubt upon the world is beating, Sons of men in battle long the enemy withstand; Safe am I within the castle of God’s word retreating, Nothing there can reach me, ’tis Beulah Land. [Refrain]
Rakeisha
Let the stormy breezes blow, their cry cannot alarm me, I am safely sheltered here, protected by God’s hand; Here the sun is always shining, Here there’s naught can harm me, I am safe forever in Beulah Land. [Refrain]
Viewing here the works of God, I sink in contemplation; Hearing now His blessed voice, I see the way He planned; Dwelling in the Spirit, here I learn of full salvation, Gladly I will tarry in Beulah Land. [Refrain]
.........................................................................................................
Mr. Justin Jones
.......................................................................................................................... Lennonx Colbey
Stefan Rahming
............................................................. "I’m a Glad Pilgrim On my Way"
Im a glad pilgrim on my way, going to glory land Jesus my only hope and stay holdeth me by the hand It is such joy to understand things that I never knew Keeping my promise to the Lord Im going thru.
Im His, what a wonderful feeling in my soul He's mine, He's protecting me from the heat and cold I'll do whatsoever He bids me I will do I know my Redeemer will lead me safely thru
Walking with Jesus all the way, singing a happy song
Matters not if it's night or day nothing can lead me wrong Feeling His presence ever near why should I weep or sigh Knowing I have a home in glory by and by.
Fully believing, trusting God, giving Him all the praise Leading me from the paths I trod ever my voice I'll raise He will be with me to the end, comforting with His pow'r And He will be my closet friend in death's dark hour.
.............................................................. St Paul’s Methodist Church Choir
Rev. Kenneth Lewis
.........................................................................
This is the Gospel of Christ. Praise be to Christ our Lord .....................................................................................To be chanted (All Standing)
Hallelujah, Hallelujah, Hallelujah, Hallelujah, Hallelujah, Hallelujah, Hallelujah, Hallelujah
..................................................................................................... Rev. Kenneth Lewis
.......................................................... The Apostles’ Creed (All Standing)
I believe in God, the Father Almighty, creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day He rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Holy, Catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.
................................................................................................ Nakia Pinder
..................................................................... Pastor Dion Gibson
PRAISE BE TO YOU, O GOD OUR FATHER, who created us in your own image for eternal
PRAISE AND THANKSGIVING TO YOU, O CHRIST, OUR LORD AND OUR GOD, who have overcome the sharpness of death and opened the Kingdom of heaven to all believers, and are now seated at the right hand of God in the glory of the Father.
PRAISE AND BLESSINGS BE TO YOU, O HOLY SPIRIT, GOD OUR COMFORTER, who bear witness within us of our acceptance with the Father and have become the pledge of our eternal inheritance
ALL PRAISE AND GLORY, BLESSINGS AND HONOUR, THANKSGIVING AND WORSHIP BE TO YOU, O BLESSED TRINITY, FATHER, SON, AND HOLY SPIRIT, ONE GOD FOR EVER AND EVER. Amen.
We bless your name for the life of Vanria we today lay to rest. We give you thanks for the joy and the blessing her life has brought to others, and her service to her generation according to your will and for every happy remembrance of her life. We bless you for your mercy and goodness which have followed all the days of her life, that now the trials of this world are over and death itself is past. Receive her into your perfect Kingdom and bring us with all who have lived and served you faithfully to the fullness of your eternal joy; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
PRAYER OF COMMENDATION ............................................................................. (All standing)
ETERNAL GOD, who have made us all and hate nothing that you have made, and have given your Son for our redemption we commend our sister Vanria to your perfect mercy and wisdom. Eternal rest grant unto her. And let perpetual light shine upon her.
THE LORD’S PRAYER ................................................................................................................
All standing, hands joined
OUR FATHER, which 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 them that trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Thine is the Kingdom, and the power and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.
BENEDICTION.............................................................................................................................
NOW THE GOD OF PEACE who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus Christ, the great Shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal Covenant, make you perfect in every good thing to do his will, working in you that which is pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory forever and ever. Amen
RECESSIONAL HYMN ............................................................"I’m 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.
Chorus:
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 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. [Chorus]
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. [Chorus]
Although the trials seem hard to bear, I’m glad I counted the cost; I now my burdens with Jesus share, I’m glad I counted the cost. [Chorus]
’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. [Chorus]
Graveside
GLAD DAY OH WONDERFUL DAY
There will be a happy meeting
In heaven I know
When we see the many loved ones
We’ve known here below
Gather on the blessed hilltops
With hearts all aglow
That will be a glad reunion day
Glad day a wonderful day
Glad day a glorious day
There with all the holy angels
And loved ones to stay
That will be a glad reunion day
There within the holy city
We’ll sing and rejoice
Praising Christ the blessed Savior
With heart and with voice
Tell Him how we came to love Him
And make Him our choice
That will be a glad reunion day
When we live a million years
In that wonderful place
Basking in the love of Jesus
Beholding His face
It will seem but just a moment
Of praising His grace
That will be a glad reunion day
FATHER ALONG
Tempted and tried we’re oft made to wonder, Why it should be thus all the day long; While there are others living about us, Never molested though in the wrong.
Farther along we’ll know all about it, Farther along we’ll understand why; Cheer up, don’t worry, live in the sunshine, We’ll understand it all by and by.
When death has come and taken our loved ones, It leaves our home so lonely and drear; Then do we wonder why others prosper, Living so wicked year after year.
Faithful till death said our loving Master, A few more days to labor and wait; Toils of the road will then seem as nothing, As we sweep through the beautiful gate.
When we see Jesus coming in glory, When He comes from His home in the sky; Then we shall meet Him in that bright mansion, We’ll understand it all by and by.
CITY OF GOLD
There’s a city that looks-- over the valley of death and it’s glory has never been told, where The Lamb is the light--in the midst of the night in that beautiful city of gold
chorus
Where the sun never sets
Where the sun never sets
Where the leaves never fade
Where the leaves never fade and the righteous forever will shine like the stars in that beautiful city of gold
there will be no more pain, sickness-sorrow or death and the saints, they will never grow old how i long for that city, where there never comes a night
VANRIA MARSHA WILSON - COX
TO MY
My darling honey, my love, my soulmate. Words cannot express my boundless love for you. I will never forget the day we first met. You were the most beautiful woman that I had ever seen and I immediately knew that you were my soulmate. You were the woman I wanted to spend the rest of my life with. Your infectious spirit, beauty and brains captured my attention and it would feel as though I was floating on literal clouds. In the beginning, we spent so much time apart with me working in Turks Island but it always felt like you were right next to me. We would always spend as much time as possible together during our time off. I couldn’t wait to move back to Freeport to spend the rest of my life with you and since then we’ve been inseparable. Over the years our bond grew stronger and stronger. Your unwavering support and love brought me peace.
Honey, you were my everything. I always admired the way you carried yourself, so graceful and pristine. You took pride in everything you did, including raising our sons to be the men they are today. Every day, I watched you pour so much love into them, teaching them respect and instilling values while guiding them through life. You were always so proud of them. You were an amazing role model to them. But it didn’t stop there. Your love was infectious. You poured into every person you met. I loved
that about you. Not a day went by that you didn’t provide any and every one help in the form of support, advice or friendship. So many people loved you but I loved you more.
The day when you departed this earthly realm, my entire world stopped and I felt a part of me leave with you. I am so broken without you. I will forever cherish our fond memories. Everyday I think about you. Now that you are gone, I don’t know how to continue living day to day. Every morning I wake up and I wonder if this is some sort of bad dream. It’s so hard to accept this sad reality. I am so thankful for the years we shared. Our love was real and true, so pure. You were someone I trusted with my life. As I think back, I can recall how much joy and satisfaction I would feel knowing that I could provide for you. When it came to you, you knew that nothing was too great or tedious for me to do for you. You deserved the world and I would gladly bend over backwards, if needed be, to ensure that you got it or close to it. My honey, my darling, my sweet love, I thank you for being such an amazing wife and life partner. During the time you got ill, I felt so helpless knowing I was doing all that I could for you but I couldn’t take away the physical ailment from you. I couldn’t bear
to see you suffering. You were so much braver than I was. It took everything in me to put on a brave face for you but your faith never faltered. You always had faith that you would get better, I still can’t believe you are gone. I know that you are at peace now, and that gives me some comfort, yet still it is so hard to let you go. I am so grateful for the years we spent. Every night that I lay down and close my eyes to sleep, I still see your beautiful face so clearly. When I’m at home I can still hear your voice echoing off the walls, calling for your “honey” as you affectionately called me. Honey, I miss you. I miss hearing your voice, walking up next to you, coming home to you and even our Sunday drives to the beach or to Eight Mile Rock. You were everything to me. I have to find my strength in God and to know that he is able and that he does no wrong. I try my best not to question his works, as you taught me not to. My sweet darling, you knew that I love you but I know that Jesus loves you best. Rest on my honey and know that I look forward to that glad reunion day when I shall meet you again in that sweet by and by yonder in the sky.
Your loving “Honey”.
GUS OR COXIE
TODAY MUMMY...
I celebrate you. I Thank God for blessing me with such an amazing human being. Your grace, your elegance, your stature, your matrotic demeanor, your passion, your cleanliness, you were always on point with everything. A real BOSS. Your smile could overpower any darkness. Your outspokenness was the truth and everyone appreciated your advice. I loved that we never argued or raised our voices even when we didn’t agree. Your dedication to worshiping God was unmatched. You were a prayer warrior and always willing to bend backwards to help anyone in need. Your belief in Jesus Christ also made me a believer.
You shared a dream with me a few days before you passed. Your text said, “I dreamt that I was in a golden bedroom and the only white in there was the sheet on the bed, everything else was gold and someone came in and gave me a gold jacket like a housecoat and a gold slipper. I don’t know what that means but the room was very nice”… I now see it meant that God was calling you home. I wasn’t ready mummy.
I will always look for your video calls on Sundays. Every single call started with a big bright smile before we started talking. I will miss your cooking, even the way you wiped the
excess gravy off the plate so it could be perfect. I will miss the sparkle in your glassy eyes , the way we laughed until tears over the simplest things. I will miss picking up outfits and hearing you say, “make sure you get the tennis to match”. I will miss your guidance and mostly your prayers. You always covered our lives and I will be forever grateful. Mummy, I will miss your hugs and lunch dates. I already miss those “I love you’s” every day . Life is just not the same. You made every day so positive. You were my Earthly God, my Queen.
Mummy, the day you left, I lost my strength. I was always a mama’s boy. I wish you didn’t have to leave so soon but as a believer in the Lord our Saviour, I am confident that you are home. I know that you will watch over me and my family and I know I will make you proud. I want to thank you for making me the man I am today and for being so supportive .
TO MY MOM
Most people after losing a mother may say that it’s so hard to find the words, however for me it is somewhat easy, simply because we had such an open relationship and such a great bond. You knew that you were my best friend and we openly spoke to each other about everything. I already miss our daily two (2) hour talks, where the phone network service provider would have to cut our calls because of the time we remained talking, after which we would simply call back and laugh saying “ Ok I think that’s them trying to tell us that enough now”. Mummy, you knew that you held a special place in my heart. You were like none other. I am so thankful for the many discussions we had over the years and the advice that you gave. In you I would always find such a safe space. I would often brag about you and our relationship, being able to express how great of a mother you were to me. I am so glad that I shared with you constantly how much I love and appreciate you and all that you did and would still do for me, no matter how old I got. You would always say to me that I would always be your baby, your “BIG baby”. It is extremely difficult to accept that you are gone from me forever. I thank you for your prayers of protection and your daily teachings on how to trust God in all things. It is because of you that I can say that I truly believe in God, trust Him
and have built a personal relationship with Him. I find some peace in knowing that you are now resting in His arms and that you have to struggle no more. I find some peace also in knowing that I have gained a personal guardian angel, because I know that you are watching over me. It pains me when I think that you will not be here to hold my unborn child and to be able to shower her with that same love and affection that you gave me. I can say that your example as a parent has prepared me well to take on the role as a father, as I plan to be just as loving and affectionate to my children as you were to me. Mum, I know that you are at peace now and that helps to comfort me, however the pain still runs deep inside of me. I will forever hold onto your memory and I am so glad that I do not have to question if you knew how much I loved you. As tears fill my eyes while writing this, I still manage to smile, just thinking about you being the outstanding, jubilant woman that you were. Rest on my precious mother. I will always love you!
YOUR “BIG BABY”
VANRIA MARSHA WILSON - COX
TRIBUTE TO GRAMMY VANNY
Thank you
for always being so happy and joyful from the first day we met. It was like you knew me since I was born, I felt at home immediately.. Thank you for helping me become the man I am today. You helped me realize that anything is possible through happiness and positivity. I’m grateful for all the times at sunland where I needed to get out of trouble or I wanted to come eat lunch in your office. I am grateful to call you my Grammy!! I’ll see you later and tell my future family about how great you are! ! R.I.P. Grammy Vanny…
Please watch over me. I love you.
Grammy,
I miss you. I always thought you would get better and that we would have forever but God had other plans. I miss your video calls asking me about life. You always knew my moods and how to make me smile. I keep looking back at your last text message telling me that when you come out of the hospital, you were gonna make me curry. I will never get that. Thank you for always being there for me. I will always keep you in my heart.
Love you forever
“Your favorite hands down”
Armani,
TRIBUTE TO MY MOTHER-IN-LAW Hi Mama,
I will never forget the day we met. I was so nervous to meet you as your son spoke so highly of you. You were the matriarch of the family, the one in charge, the one person that I had to get blessing from because I loved your son. Little did I know that you would welcome me with the biggest hug and smile and instantly calling me your daughter. I felt so special and that was the beginning of a beautiful relationship with you.
I never got a chance to say thank you...
Thank you for not only welcoming me into your family, but also taking my son as your own grandchild. We were never considered in laws. We loved you so much.
Thank you for all the love, support, laughter, advice, hugs, kisses, and all the other beautiful memories that we are left to cherish.
Thank you for always being there for us as a mom and grandma.
I pray one day to be half the woman you were.
Love you always and forever.
MELISSA
VANRIA MARSHA WILSON - COX
VANRIA MARSHA WILSON - COX
“Sisters are special from the young to the old. God gave us one that was more precious than gold.”
To Our Dear Sister Vanria:
You came into this world with grace, charm and beauty. You were a glittering star beaming and shining wherever you went. Our family and friends observed how you bloomed into the savory character that you were. Your existence on earth was a blessing to many; your poise and beauty blended well with your personality that others wished to emulate.
Thanks, thanks and more thanks was the buzzing word to your ears. Every family member has been positively impacted by your generosity. In times of crisis you gave yourself unselfishly to become that prayer warrior, counselor, advisor and financier when you were able to. You were always willing to make others happy, you were indeed a gift from God and you demonstrated the love He gave through your kind heart and radiant smiles. We give God thanks for you because you epitomized Matthew chapter 25 when you fed the hungry, gave water to those who thirst, took the strangers in, clothed the naked, visited the sick and the imprisoned. The work and service you gave will speak for you. You were indeed a gift from God.
Sister, your life’s span on this side has ended, your work is done and now it is time to take your rest and receive your rewards for the good deeds you’ve done. Losing you is like losing a part of our souls.
Rest among the angels dear sister and may the memories of your love and laughter fill the emptiness and bring us peace. Take
your eternal sweet rest, we love you but Jesus loves you best.
YOUR SIBLINGS
HONORARY PALLBEARERS
GUSTAVUS COX SR
VACCARO WILKSON
GUSTAVUS COX II
J. RICARDO “REX” WILSON
SHAKUR SEYMOUR
STEFAN RAHMING
