Colin Sylvester Thomas

ColinSylvesterThomas

Celebrationforthelifeof Colin Sylvester Thomas

5thMay1961-27thAugust2021

CREMATION

MortlakeCrematorium,KewMeadowsPath,London,TW94EN

22ndSeptember2021

12.40pm

Officiants

Dr. Delroy Hall

Rev David Bussue

ORDEROFSERVICE

Procession- Damien Marley ‘Speak Life’ - Officiants and Family

Welcome - Rev David Bussue

Tribute- Colin’s Step-daughters

TributetoOurFriend - Friends of Colin

MusicalTribute‘What a Wonderful World’ - Cynthia Palmer-Golding (Cousin)

WeRemember - Tribute Freddie Thomas (Son)/Amy (Freddie’s mum)

Eulogy‘Our Brother’ - Danny and Norris Thomas

WordsofComfort - Dr Delroy Hall

Committal

Committal- Rev David Bussue

FinalThoughts‘There’s a Time’ - Rev David Bussue

SongofDismissal‘One Step Forward’ - Tiken Jah Fokaly/Max Romeo

ColintheHusband

ColintheFather

TributefromAmyandFreddie

The supreme happiness of life is the conviction that we are loved’ (Victor Hugo, 1802-1885), French Novelist

Colin was a wonderful father to our son Freddie and step-father to Frances. He felt like he had been given a second chance after the tragic loss of his firstborn baby son. They shared many adventures and made wonderful memories over the years which will remain a comfort to Freddie during this period of grief. Together we raised a fine young man who is kind and generous with his time. Words are not enough to express our pain and bewilderment. “Our time on earth is fleeting, but then our journey continues.“ Rest in peace Colin. You were loved.

ColintheSonandBrother

Colin’sDad

Colin I love and miss you and I cannot believe you are gone. I remember all those times we spent together in England, running up and down and having fun. Those were some good times. Memories I will cherish forever. I appreciate all those times you have helped me and the times you came to visit Jamaica. The people here in the community miss you and were saddened by the news of your passing, because you were always cheerful and kind, especially to the children in the community. I still cannot believe you are not here to celebrate life with us. But God knows best and I pray he will give us the strength to carry on without you. Sleep in peace my son until we meet again.

Colin’sBrother-Taddy

I am blessed to have such a wonderful brother such as Colin Thomas. Colin and I grew up in separate countries, yet we were very close to each other. We always kept in touch with each other on the phone and whenever he visited Jamaica. Colin and I would inform each other of family matters, there was never one visit from England that my brother and I didn't see each other. My brother Colin knows the value of family and so he put his family first, making sure that all family matters and affairs were taken care of. My brother Colin was a wonderful, loving and caring father, he was also a loving and caring son to his father who he visited in Jamaica to oversee and take care of his business. Colin always said that I love to pop style on him. He loved his jerk chicken with a cold red stripe beer. Colin was full of humour, vibes and drama and loved his beaches and fried fish in Jamaica. He also used to say that dad could drink for two days and not get drunk. He also said that because we were both born in the same month , we got along so well with each other. Gone too soon my brother, I will miss my brother’s calls and I will simply miss seeing him on his visit to Jamaica. Now that my brother has left us here on earth, I will say farewell my brother Colin, take your rest and sleep in peace.

Colin’sBrothers-Danny&Norris

Whenever we think of our brother, we smile. Colin was a warm and loving person and was a good friend to so many. He could be counted on and depended on always. He lived his life to the fullest and touched so many people during his time; he was such an inspiration. Colin was happiest when he was surrounded by his family and friends, and he loved his son Freddie dearly. It’s hard to image life without him. You will always be in our hearts, may your soul rest in eternal peace.

CousinCynthia

I close my eyes and wonder if I’m dreaming. I hope I am, then I realise that I’m not and you have really gone. My cousin Colin, more like a brother than a cousin. Your fortnightly visits to see your beautiful boy Freddie in Sheffield will occur no more. On Saturdays I would cook the dinner and you would bring the pudding - always apple pie and ice cream. Since our parents reconnected in the early 80s we have never been apart. I even came to live with you all in White City for a while when I got a job in London. I cannot comprehend that I will never go on holiday with you to Jamaica again. No more going up to country to visit your dad and my parents’ birthplace and family. You have left a void in my heart that will never, ever be filled. The world will be a darker place for me now that you’ve gone. You once helped me get out of a deep, dark hole and reprimanded me for not asking for your help earlier. I can’t believe that I couldn't have helped you in the same way. Our talks in the middle of the night during those last few weeks, even when you asked me to pray for you, never prepared me for this. I am not an angry person but I am angry that life became so difficult that you felt you had to leave us. I remember the things you told me up to your untimely death and you can rest assured the God that I believe in is not sleeping and sees and hears everything. We might not know everything, but everything will be revealed in time. Rest in peace my dear brother/cousin. I am so sorry your journey has ended so tragically. I love and miss you, and although you have gone from my home, you will always, always remain in my heart.

CousinGodfrey

Colin, where do we begin? It seems surreal that you are no longer here and that we won't be able to link up like we have, over the last 30 years. You have been a fabulous role model, confidant, cousin, and an exceptional father. I pray that you are at peace now and you will never be forgotten. RIEP Goff, Andrea, Louis, Jody and Reece.

CousinNoel

Where do l start? I can’t believe l won’t ever see that big paid for smile that we both went to Budapest, for it only seems like yesterday. I’ll never forget all the regular phone calls on your way in to work, every suggestion, or bit of advice you gave me if l wasn’t sure about something. You were someone l could rely on to just tell it as it was. You were one of the most down to earth people l have ever met. We had so much fun on holiday, l can’t even begin to tell you what a great time we had and now you’re gone s left a great big hole in my heart. l’m sorry we didn’t get to say our goodbyes, but l really do hope you’re at peace now. We will all really miss you. Love always, Noel and family x

CousinSonia

To my darling cousin Colin, I can’t believe this is even real and I’m having to pen these words. You are more like a brother than a cousin to me. I loved our Friday and Saturday evenings when you used to come up to see Freddie and stay at my house for the weekend. You always used to text or ring and let me know you were cooking curry chicken and rice, or your infamous corned beef and rice and that you would leave some for me if I was out singing with the choir. We would sometimes sit and watch a movie and share a glass of red wine together, or you would tell me about your work week. You selflessly stopped coming to stay at mine over the weekend because of Covid as you knew I was high risk, but you still always kept in touch and let us know you were up for the weekend even though we couldn’t see you. But once the ban was lifted you used to come round to mine or Cynthia’s again on the weekends that you were up. Will miss you like crazy cuz, but I hope you are able to find the peace you so deserve. Love you always, forever in my heart, Sonia x

CousinValda

Charming - always pleasant, likable, lovable and sociable. Obliging – always willing to lend a hand.

Light-hearted – always cheerful with a ready smile. Inspiring – always mentoring and encouraging so many people to believe in themselves and to try to do well.

Neat – always tidy and smartly dressed.

For all those who truly knew him, the words we see above, only go some way to describing the man we grew to love. He was here with us, but now he is gone, but we can honour him by letting memories of him live on.

CousinKieran

I have known Uncle Colin all my life. When I was younger he used to take me on trips out and to the cinema with Fredrick. He gave me the opportunity to come and learn fibrous plastering in London, as well as giving me a home for 2 years. I will be forever grateful for the life that came from it. He will be forever missed.

NephewRandellOmarThomas

My dear uncle Colin, thank you for those phone calls when I needed business advice. Thank you for sharing your philosophy on business and on life. Thank you for the beers and the BBQs. Thank you for my cuzzy Freddie, he will make you proud. I know we promised to catch up soon but we weren't able to in this life, but I hope we do in the next life. I know you went to bed after 9pm because you were dedicated to your work. I hope one day to emulate some of your class and examples, so until the trumpet sounds goodnight, goodnight, sleep tight, sleep tight.

ColintheFriend

FrankPascal(Friend)

How would you describe a good man?

Is it a man who had run his own business, was a skilled craftsman, and had fought against the odds to keep the business afloat in an industry where there were few men like him? Literally walking the streets to find work when necessary, to keep things going.

Is it a man who created jobs for others giving them opportunities where there were none, believing in them so that they could start believing in themselves?

Is it a man who you had known as a brother from another mother, all your formative years who had grown up with you, shared a love of Marvel comics and had always been there with you through thick and thin?

Is it a man who you could reason with and discuss all manner of topics, and was interested in other worldly views, to broaden his and your minds?

Is it a man who was typically upbeat in nature, was good natured and respected, always knew how to crack a joke to make people laugh, and got on well with so many people, due to his amiable nature?

Is it a man who you had shared so many wonderful adventures with, in Cuba, Miami, Thailand and Ghana, to name but a few? Having travelled the world with, had shared so many memories and was planning the next trip, which probably would’ve been our last great adventure.

Is it a man who had been central to all of us over the many years we have shared, whom all have looked up to and could call a brother and a friend, and had always been there to turn to over the years?

Is it a man who looked after his son, and took on board his responsibilities, unflinchingly, though he was many miles away, because he knew it was the right thing to

Is it a man who looked after his father though in another country, and made certain that he was comfortable and wanted for nothing, taking the time to see him, year after year, also taking his son, so that he knew his grandfather and his roots?

Is it a man who supported his brothers as only a brother could throughout the years, the good and the times when things were not so good?

Is it a man who knew how to treat women well, always planned to do right by them, was not in the habit of doing them a disservice, and was prepared to stand by them, even when they could not see that he was doing the right thing?

Is it a man who was able to forgive those who hurt him emotionally and financially, when all he was trying to do was do the right thing as best that he could?

Is it a man who didn’t realise how much we loved him, and had I recognised, how much he was hurting, would have done my utmost for him to be still be here with us This is how I would describe a good man. This was our

brother, my brother from another mother, Colin Thomas. He was a good man. Gone too soon from us physically. Will always live in my heart, our hearts & my head spiritually Love you my brother R I P Will see you in my dreams.

Royan(Friend)

A friend and family man who left us far too soon, who was a wonderful human being. He will always be remembered for his kindness and unwavering support. Words cannot describe the true depth of loss that has been felt amongst us all. You will forever be in my heart. Rest in peace.

AlvinFaloon&Family(Friends)

Colin was one of the first friends I made living in White City 50 years ago, a lifetime. He was the one I looked up to as he was the oldest amongst our crew, he was the leader for sure, getting us all together to go places, just meet up, go to a new club, which is something he continued to always do in later years. I will remember his bubbly personality, the big afro of which we competed, smart dress oozing with confidence, although he did moan at times especially if you were late as he was always on time. He was the first to get an apprenticeship, which was inspiring and encouraged me to also follow that path. I remember when he crashed his first car and blamed the woman in the hot pants that he had been watching, and I had to calm the situation down, she even said sorry lol. We had a wonderful JA holiday together in 1999, travelling the island, take turns driving, beating me at pool, reaching the top of Dunn’s River, chatting and reasoning about life, memories of which I will treasure forever. I will miss you dear friend RIEP

Terry(Friend)

Colin, my faithful friend, my brother. I have known you since we were children – practically all my life. We played together, grew up together and were in each other’s lives - even more so when we had our families as you became Godfather to one of my children. You were always thinking of others, kind and considerate. Checking on me if you hadn’t heard from me in a while. You were always the sensible one, the first one to buy a car and build a successful business. You encouraged me to go that extra mile and to be a better person.

I knew I could depend on you for anything, because you would help without question, but also with a brotherly shoulder to lean on. I have only good memories of my friend, far too many to mention because they span a lifetime, but I know I shall carry Colin with me daily - his smiling face, the sound of his laughter and above all, his thoughtfulness to me and all those that knew him well. RIEP my brother. Terry Tavernier and family x

MaureeninJamaica(Familyfriend)

Colin you were a good person and it is sad you had to leave so suddenly. I will cherish all the memories we have of you here in Jamaica. I have known you for the past 14 years while working with your father and I am happy I got the chance to meet you. I always remember you waking up in the morning and asking for a cup of coffee, and after I made you a cup, you would say I made your day. The children will miss you at Christmas time as you would bring a lot of gifts for them whenever you came to Jamaica. We are still in shock, but God knows everything so rest in peace.

RoseHaylett(Lindsey)(Familyfriend)

Colin, I am struggling to believe you are no longer here with us. But from what I can remember you were "quiet." I never heard you raise your voice, you were always friendly and approachable even as children. You will be sorely missed so God bless you. I hope and pray you’re in a better place. One love.

Neville(Familyfriend)

Where I'm from Colin was a business titan. Also, as Colin is a humanist, wherever he went he brought that entrepreneurial flair. One love.

Patric(Workfriend)

Hi, we will miss one thing from Colin, the warm welcome smile he always had for anyone, sleep well my friend.

Susan(Familyfriend)

My dearest and oldest friend Colin, I am truly heartbroken at your loss but I have the most wonderful memories that I will treasure forever that can never be erased or are impossible to forget. We went to Friday late-night movies and you took me to see the scary movie ‘The Exorcist.’ I stayed up half the night listening to music because I was too scared to go to sleep. Hanging out with you and Frank, having our little debates and winding Frank up, you pleading with me to stop and make up as it went on for daysstubborn me stubborn Frank. Reflecting on times around all the guys - Alvin, Terry, Frank, Kenrick and Royan even though I wasn't always welcome from some of the guys (Terry) being the only girl around, you were the one to calm things down even though I held my own. I remember Terry, still have mad love for ya. Hearing the sound of your laughter and seeing that smile of yours as we hung out as kids but also seeing you grow into the wonderful man you became. Watching you create your own business later, taking on my son as apprentice, he's become successful in his accomplishment of what you taught him, and found your name to be very well known in the business. Lee was taken by surprise how well known you were too in the film industry, He's forever grateful for the life lessons you’ve given him. Colin I've known you to be hard-

working, never complaining, a good listener, supportive, giving and kind-hearted, never forcing your opinion upon anyone, but giving truthful valuable advice. You called a few months ago to say how proud you were of Lee having sat down with you and acknowledge everything you told him all those years ago. ’He finally got it’ you said. No words can express what you meant to me, the love we had for each other I'll treasure for the rest of my life. You'll be truly missed not just by me but so many friends all over the world, so many people you've touched that love you. You’re in a better place now my dear friend, no more heartache, no more suffering. Love you always xxx

TheLindseyFamily-Viola,Michael&Rose

Memories of Colin and his brothers go back a very long way, as his parents knew my parents, and Mrs Thomas looked after me when I was a toddler. Colin was like an older brother, an extra one, looking out for me. We grew up in Phipps house, White City and our block was exciting and fun, the place to be. Kids of all ages from City gravitated to our block to play games and challenge the champ Mr T. Colin was brilliant A1 champ and had an advantage with his long arms. He was hard to beat and had a few opponents, Danny being one of them. You had to be good to play against colin helped me to play and move up by slamming others out, I loved that. Colin has presence, he was kind and supportive and was there for us when my brother passed. He put together amazing photos of them as young teenagers. I still can’t believe you’ve left us and we are so sad. Colin you have a special place in our heart and will always be remembered fondly. Rest in peace, the Lindsey family,

Randolph(Friend)

Colin was a gentle soul with a soothing demeanour and a smile that lit up and made you smile. The last time I saw Colin was just over 3 years ago. We sat down and talked about life and reminisced about the good old days. We laughed about events, things we all did and the way we were. Colin I shall always remember you as you live on in my memories with your beautiful, contagious smile. RIP Colin.

Gerry(Friend)

Colin was a person I knew for over 45 years. He always gave 100% in the 2 marriages he was involved in and I played music at both of them. He was dedicated to go and see his son in Sheffield every 2 weeks, which shows what kind of father and person he was. He will be missed by family and friends. May his soul RIEP.

Mum,Lucky,Sheila,SueandKit

*Colin*….Funny, Warm, Smiley, Caring, Considerate, Loving, Thoughtful - are just a few amazing memories we have of you….. Always late and making us laugh every time we met was guaranteed lol. However, words cannot describe the loss we feel saying farewell to you. But heaven chose to give you wings and now it's time you flew. We wish that we could have more time, that God had let you stay. Forever would not be long enough, but we would gratefully take one day. We wish we had just one more chance to see that tender smile, to laugh with you again dearest Colin just for a little while. Gone too soon, but not forgotten. Forever you will remain our shining star, until we see your face again Rest in peace beautiful man. All our love always and forever. The Bhakta ladies xxxxxx

Carolyn(Familyfriend)

I met Colin in the late 1970s through my friend Valerie who had lived in White City before moving to Hanwell. Colin and his friends, many of whom lived on the estate at the time, were starting up a little sound system called Showcase. They soon had a large and loyal following. It was at the height of the lover's rock era. Showcase played at my 18th birthday party and I can recall what seemed like the whole of White City and Shepherds Bush turned up at my house! My mum wasn't too happy, especially when she saw all the rubbed off wallpaper the next morning! Hanwell had never seen anything like it and it was a great party! I remember afterwards Colin said we should do it again, but life, work and growing up got in the way. Besides, I don't think Hanwell could have handled it! Over the years we may not have seen each other as much, but always somehow managed to get back in contact. I've always thought of him as a lifelong friend and find it hard to comprehend he is no longer here. His big, infectious smile and sweet nature is unforgettable. Rest well Colin x

Gilbert(Friend)

I hardly know were to start with my tribute to Mr Colin Sylvester Thomas. We go back many years growing up on the same council estate and attending Canberra primary then on to secondary school. That's where our friendship grew. We shared the same friends, same adventures, we all went to Holland Park to the adventure playground and got some serious scars falling on the ground from our half made go karts and generally being young people. We had

spirit and that go-for-it mentality. I used to borrow Colin's or Royan's bike because I was poor. Colin always seemed to have income, but do you know we were never ever jealous of each other, we just had a laugh. Part of growing up and exploring gave us so many memories. The parents in the community looked out for each other. If I got licks at home I would always end up at Colin's home or Royan Lewis’ home whose parents would call my mother (RIP) and say ‘Gilbert is here Mrs Tavernier.’ My mother was tough as cookies....I suppose that shaped me to be the person I am. Colin and I would laugh, play music, read comics and chat about the next dance, house of pies, play cards etc. Colin was a gentle soul, he never spoke of himself or his achievements or successes, he was humble to the core. He just wanted to listen to others and would put you first. In April 2020 I caught Covid -19. Almost dead. I lost weight - talking about weight watchers, it was a killer. I contacted my daughter, then I contacted Colin and Royan. I was barely able to talk, but Colin visited every single day bringing his friend food, water etc. The man worked hard, but had the time to look after a friend. Obviously he couldn't enter the house otherwise he would get the infection. Colin, together with others, really supported me - that I will never forget. We all leave a legacy, Colin has left his mark. He was a good man, a genuinely good person. Does anyone know how Colin got into the field of work? Well at school we all used to mess around, I know I did, always the bloody clown. The plaster work teacher used to get so frustrated with us, however he saw that Colin was studious and took the class seriously....eventually he whispered in Colin's ear that he should go to Pinewood and mention his name and he will get an apprenticeship. That's all he had to do because Colin showed an interest to get on. The rest is history. As with you all, Colin will, and should remain in all our thoughts. Colin will be remembered for his kindness and warmth. Gone but not forgotten. May you RIEP. Goodnight.

Freddie

Dad used to sing this song to me when I was little

Thislittlelightofmine,I’mgonnaletitshine, Thislittlelightofmine,I’mgonnaletitshine, Thislittlelightofmine,I’mgonnaletitshine, Letitshine,letitshine,letitshine.

Mulrooney-Thomas(Son)

LyndaSolomon-Thomas(Ex-Wife)

Acknowledgements

The Thomas and Palmer families would like to thank everyone for their calls, texts, cards, gifts, flowers and visits during this sad time. Thank you also for joining us today either in person or via live stream.

Please note, for those of you who would like to give a tribute, there will be an opportunity to do so at the Social Club before the bar is opened and refreshments are served.

Refreshments

Colin’s family would like to invite you all to join them at:

The Maxilla Social Club, 2 Maxilla Walk, London, W10 6SW

The Maxilla Club does not accept debit/credit cards