The Form And Order For The Celebration of The Solemn Eucharist of The Resurrection In Thanksgiving for the life of
DEANNE
ELIZABETH GIBSON
Born: July 23rd, 1969
Died: August 23rd, 2022
Age: 53 Years
Service Held At: St. Agnes Anglican Church Nassau, The Bahamas
Saturday, September 17th, 2022 at 11 a.m.
Celebrant
The Rev’d. Fr. DeAngelo Bowe Rector, The Church of The Most Holy Trinity Nassau, Bahamas
Assisted by:
Rev’d. Fr. John Kabiga
Associate Priest, The Church of The Most Holy Trinity Nassau, Bahamas
The Rev’d. Fr. Roderick Bain Rector, St. Barnabas Anglican Church Nassau, Bahamas
Rev’d. Fr. Ruel Strachan Assistant Curate, St. Agnes Church Nassau, Bahamas
Rev’d Fr. Richard Wood
Rev’d Fr. Dr. James Moultrie
Organist: Mr. Preston Ferguson
Interment: St. Agnes Cemetery Nassau Street New Providence, The Bahamas
THIS IS MY STORY
DeAnne Elizabeth Gibson, 53, of Nassau, Bahamas, went home to be with her Lord on August 23rd, 2022 at 9:21AM, with her husband by her side.
She was the fifth of six children born out of the union of the late Ambrose DaCosta and Rosamund Vashti Williams (nee Roberts), arriving on July 23rd, 1969. She was closely connected to her other siblings Karen and Christopher, whom she interacted with on a regular basis.
DeAnne’s passion for life extended across every dimension of her existence; her friendships, work, family and church life all had equally significant
roles, but her ability to skillfully master each with none feeling cheated or ignored was nothing short of genius.
As a child DeAnne was known as the singular welcoming committee for the neighborhood, the Ambassador of Skyline Heights as her cousin Mimi called her. Few kids moved into her domain that she didn’t know, welcome, and befriend often all in the first encounter. Primary and High School were just another domain that DeAnne would flourish in. Surely within the QC Class of 1985 are countless stories of encounters with DeAnne. To this day the “QC Girls” are a constant part of her village that have stuck beside her on this journey.
DeAnne, affectionately known as “Dee Dee”, attended Queens College from ELC until her high school graduation in 1985. She went on to attend the Bahamas Hotel Training College and completed her formal education receiving a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Hotel & Restaurant Management from Johnson & Wales University, Providence, Rhode Island. With this foundation it is no surprise that as DeAnne grew her reach and impact grew as well.
Hospitality has been at the core of DeAnne’s life.
Upon graduating from The Bahamas Hotel Training College, DeAnne began her career as an intern at the Carnival Crystal Palace Resort and Casino. Fueled by a passion to strengthen her knowledge, and on the advice of several industry executives with whom she developed and maintained life-long friendships, she left the Bahamas to continue her studies abroad.
Armed with her degree, DeAnne would return home to embark on what would become a stellar career in the Tourism, Hospitality and Culinary industries. Her impact was far reaching across properties such as Comfort Suites, where she served as an Assistant Manager - Reservations; The Westwind Club as an Assistant Manager; The Radisson Cable Beach Resort with dual Management roles in local Corporate Sales and the Weddings Department.
DeAnne’s passion however would also be combined with a duty to country and the development of the next generation of leaders; when like other family members, DeAnne trained as an educator, joining
the Ministry of Education as a Family and Consumer Science teacher. Working at both C. H. Reeves Junior High School and C. R. Walker Senior High School. “Mrs. Gibson” was well loved by her students, who today still speak about her classes and her encouraging spirit.
After almost ten years in the classroom, her hospitable inclination would eventually lead her back in the hospitality arena, and in 2006 she joined the The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism in the Cultural and Authentic Events Department. It is here that she would flourish even more as this was a good fit for her personality, customer driven, great oral communicator, implicit on maintaining standards, and exceptional organizational skills. DeAnne’s 16 year career with the MoT saw many accomplishments not only
for her personally but on a national level. She assisted The Bahamas in gaining several regional awards, highlighting the culinary arts of the country. DeAnne understood the importance of educating locals and tourists about the diverse history, techniques, and food trends of our destination. Food inspires travel and so the country was blessed for her passion for the craft.
Family, as is said, if you know then you know. DeAnne’s family both immediate and extended were near and dear to her.
Family gatherings, Super Bowl Weekends, monthly Prayer Breakfasts were ingrained in her DNA and she ensured her children understood, participated and appreciated the value of strong family bonds. In the Williams’ and Roberts’ families, lines between first, second, third cousins do not exist, everyone is just family. She and Dwight often joked that a function for “immediate family” could be 50 people easy!!
In James 2:17 it reads “So you see, faith by itself isn’t enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless” (NLT). We’ve all heard of mustard seed faith and all can agree DeAnne was a living example of that. A person who didn’t just attend church but lived out what it meant to be an active contributing member of the faith.
Though DeAnne was baptized, confirmed and married in St. Agnes Anglican Church, her walk with God and spiritual development was not confined only to the Anglican faith. For a period, DeAnne, Dwight and their children attended St. Michael’s Methodist Church. The family later returned and joined the Parish Church of the Most Holy Trinity, where they have been faithful members for the last 20 years, active in many ministries. ACW, Marriage Ministry, Cell Church, Cursillo, Prayer Ministry, seems like a daunting list, to the average person probably, to DeAnne, simply what her God called her to do.
DeAnne’s faith remained steadfast throughout her 10 year battle. She never waivered, she never doubted, she never questioned. DeAnne often said that for whatever the reason her God was using her in this way, she was confident that His plan was divine.
She married the love of her life Dwight Fitzgerald Gibson on November 27th, 1993, DeAnne is survived by her three Children: Deon DaCosta, Daniel Jarod Alexander and Daria Elizabeth
Mother: Rosamund Williams
Sisters: Desiree (Keith) McCartney, Donna Williams, Denise (Eric) Gordon, Karen Hunt
Brothers: Cardinal, DaCosta “DA” (VaQuicha), Christopher Williams
Mother-in-law: Cora Gibson
In-laws: Joan Herious, Maxwell (Allyson) Gibson, Pamela Gibson, Larry Gibson, Cheryl Gibson, Bernadette Gibson
Nieces & Nephews: Darren (Jennifer), Karl (Dina), Drew & Keisha McCartney, Eric ‘EJ’, Evan, & Eron Gordon, Dior & Demi Williams, Danielle Hunt, Christopher Williams II, Justice Camille DarvilleGomez, Zoe (Anthon) Bowleg, Drs. Demetra (Emmanuel) Obusez, Dr. Larry (Lauren) Gibson, Lovant & Leighton Gibson, H.E. Damian Gomez
Great Nieces & Nephews: Grace, Jax, Miles, Kade & Kataleya McCartney, Emery & Emerson Gordon, Eva, Alexander & Dylan Gomez, Laylah Gibson, Aamari Bowleg, Nicole & Christina Obusez, Natalie & Xavier Gibson
Aunts and Uncles: Evangeline McFall, Christine (Harcourt) Rolle, Jacquelyne & Jodell Roberts
Cousins: Neville (Manita), & Dr. Keith (Sonya), Evon Wisdom, Gerald (Dominique) Roberts, Cora (Donald)
Cooper, Rome Italia Johnson, Cathleen (Brian) Hassan, Gladys (Reginald) Sands, Oscar (Josee), & Dr. Daniel (Immalasha) Johnson, Wayne Roberts, Hollis (Phillip) Delancy, Tanya “Jill”(Dwayne) Bain, Brandon Roberts, E. Pedro (Carolyn) III, & Anna Maria “Mimi” Roberts, Raine and Patricia Roberts, Steven, Andrew and Diane Knowles, Ricardo Daley, Khristine Wring, Janice Daley, Bernadette (Rev. Dr. James) Moutrie, Claudia (Lafayette) Hamlett, Margaret Hargrove, Veronica (Maurice) Willoughby, George II & Kathleen McFall, Sandra (Haymish) Moxey, Marsha (Wilfred) Beneby, Kayla Rolle, Natasha (Ellis) Bastian, Keith and Colin Rolle
Lifelong Friends: Kathleen “Kathy” (Randy) Burrows, Antonia (Andre) Carey
Adopted Children: Adia Deveaux, Jami Thompson, Brandon McPhee
God Parents: Thelma Taylor, Gwen (Idris) Reid, Edward Williams
God Children: Toni Carey, Jayson Braynen, Brenna Evans, Destiny (Audie) Morley, Dylan Gardiner
Special Friends: Ruth (Gordon) Wong, Violet Perpall, Cherylee Pinder, Freda (James) Malcolm, Sheryl (Mike) Carey, Antoinette Glinton, Urmie (Michael) Braynen, Christine (Joey) WallaceWhitfield, Brian Turnquest, Lucia (Richard) Broughton, Pete (Lynette) Rolle, Michelle (Alan) Smith Burrows
The QC Girls: Dawn Hanna, Karla Knowles, Neysa Seymour, Yvette Barker, Krivoy (Stephen) Smith, Gillian (Dion) Thompson, Gail Byer, Renee (Kevin) Davies
The Highlanders: Birgitha (James) Moxey & Family, Georgette (Kendric) Albury, Gerrard (Shaundra) Sawyer, Deeian (Cameron) Pratt, Erica (Ian) Simms, Natasha Major, Shavon McHardy, Rhonda Grant, Patrick Sweeting, Kenrissa McPhee
The Bible Study Group: Marva (Gilbert)
Williams, Drs. Kimberly (Osmond) Richardson, Yvette (Charles) Sands
Culinary Sons & Daughters: Kevyn (Rache)
Pratt, Jamal Small, Tevin Kemp, Derrick Blackman, Richmond Fowler, Marv (Kenya)
Cunningham, Charon McKenzie, Michael
Harris, Astier Dean, Shanique Bodie
And her Village……
The Roberts Family
The Archer Family
The Johnson Family
Queens College Class of 1985
The Skyline Heights Family
The Acadia Avenue Family of Highland Terrace
The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism
The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism Culinary Department
The Bahamas National Culinary Team
The Bahamas Culinary Association
St. Michael’s Methodist Church family
The Parish Church of the Most Holy Trinity family
Bahamas Anglican Church Women
Bahamas Anglican Cursillo
Holy Trinity Prayer Ministry
Dr. Eugene Ahn & Family
The Doctors and Staff of Cancer Treatment Center of America (Zion, IL & Atlanta, GA)
Dr. Barrett McCartney
The Doctors and Staff of Doctors Hospital (Nassau, Bahamas)
The doctors and Staff of Northside Hospital (Atlanta, GA)
And a host of other relatives and friend
THE FUNERAL RITE & THE
ORDER OF SERVICE
PRELUDE | Organ Voluntary
THE INTRODUCTORY RITE
AT THE RECEPTION OF THE BODY | (All Stand)
Celebrant: With faith in Jesus Christ, we reverently receive the body of our dear sister DeAnne, for burial. Our sister was washed in Holy Baptism and anointed with the Holy Spirit. Let us therefore, with confidence, pray to God, our Heavenly Father, the Giver of life, that He will raise her to perfection in the company of the Saints.
V. The Lord be with you.
R. And also with you.
V. Let us pray.
Celebrant: O God of grace and glory, we remember before you this day our sister DeAnne. We thank you for giving her to us, her family and friends, to know and love as a companion on our earthly pilgrimage. In your boundless compassion, console us who mourn. Give us faith to see in death the gate of eternal life, so that in quiet confidence we may continue our course on earth, until, by your call, we are reunited with those who have gone before; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
All: Amen
Celebrant: (The use of holy water is appropriate at this reception)
I bless the body of DeAnne with the Holy Water that recalls her baptism into Christ of which St. Paul writes: “All of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death.” By baptism into His death we were buried together with Him, so that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might have a new life. For if we have been united with Him by likeness to His death, so shall we be united with Him by likeness to His resurrection.
All: Amen
(The coffin (urn) is then covered with a pall. After the coffin is covered with a pall it is not to be opened again. The Procession to the Sanctuary begins)
THE ENTRANCE:
(An acolyte or some other person leads the procession carrying the lighted Paschal Candle. Thurible, Cross and torches are carried after the Paschal Candle. The Celebrant follows (with assisting ministers). During the procession to the Altar one or more of the following sentences may be read)
Celebrant:
Jesus said, I am the resurrection, and I am the life; he who believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and who ever lives and believes in me shall never die. (John 11:25-26)
The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, His compassion never fails: every morning they are renewed. (Lamentations 3: 22-23)
Jesus said, Let not your hearts be troubled; believe in God, believe also in me. (John 14:1)
I am sure that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 8: 38-39)
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. (Romans 14: 8-9)
We brought nothing into the world, and we take nothing out. The Lord gives, and the Lord takes away: Blessed be the name of the Lord. (Job 1: 21)
The eternal God is our refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms. (Deuteronomy 33:27).
(The coffin (covered) is placed in the middle of the center isle before the altar. The foot of the coffin faces the altar. The position of the Paschal Candle is to the front left side of the coffin facing the altar)
THE INTROIT HYMN | “For All The Saints”
1. For all the saints who from their labors rest, who thee by faith before the world confessed, thy name, O Jesus, be forever blest. Alleluia. Alleluia.
2. Thou wast their Rock, their Fortress, and their might; thou, Lord, their Captain in the well-fought fight; thou, in the darkness, still their one true light. Alleluia. Alleluia.
3. O, may thy soldiers, faithful, true and bold, fight as the saints who nobly fought of old and win, with them the victor’s crown of gold. Alleluia. Alleluia.
4. O blest communion, fellowship divine! We feebly struggle, they in glory shine; yet all are one in Thee, for all are Thine. Alleluia. Alleluia.
5. And when the strife is fierce, the warfare long, steals on the ear the distant triumph song, and hearts are brave again, and arms are strong. Alleluia. Alleluia.
6. The golden evening brightens in the west; soon, soon, to faithful warriors cometh rest. sweet is the calm of Paradise the blest. Alleluia. Alleluia.
7. But, lo, there breaks a yet more glorious day; the saints triumphant rise in bright array; the King of Glory passes on His way. Alleluia. Alleluia.
8. From earth’s wide bounds, from ocean’s farthest coast, Through gates of pearl streams in the countless host, Singing to Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, Alleluia. Alleluia.
Celebrant: Let us pray: Almighty God, we remember before you today your servant, DeAnne, and we pray that, having opened to her the gates of larger life, you will receive her more and more into your joyful service, that, with all who have served you in the past, she may share in the eternal victory of Jesus Christ our Lord; who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for, ever and ever.
All: Amen.
THE LITURGY OF THE WORD
THE OLD TESTAMENT READING | Read by: Zoe Gibson - Bowleg (Niece)
The Reader says: “The Word of God, written in The Book of “Wisdom 3:1-5, 9”
1.But the souls of the righteous are in the hand of God, and no torment will ever touch them. 2.In the eyes of the foolish they seemed to have died, and their departure was thought to be a disaster, 3.and their going from us to be their destruction; but they are at peace. 4.For though in the sight of others they were punished, their hope is full of immortality. 5.Having been disciplined a little, they will receive great good, because God tested them and found them worthy of himself; 9.Those who trust in him will understand truth, and the faithful will abide with him in love, because grace and mercy are upon his holy ones, and he watches over his elect.
At the conclusion of the reading, The Reader says, “The Word of The Lord!” All: Thanks be To God
THE 23RD PSALM | Sung
by
Mr. Clayton Curtis (Friend of the Family)
THE NEW TESTAMENT READING | Read by: Drew McCartney (Nephew)
The Reader says: “The Word of God, written in The Book of “2 Corinthians 4:16-5:9”
16.So we do not lose heart. Even though our outer nature is wasting away, our inner nature is being renewed day by day. 17.For this slight momentary affliction is preparing us for an eternal weight of glory beyond all measure, 18.because we look not at what can be seen but at what cannot be seen; for what can be seen is temporary, but what cannot be seen is eternal. 1. For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. 2.For in this tent we groan, longing to be clothed with our heavenly dwelling- 3.if indeed, when we have taken it off we will not be found naked. 4.For while we are still in this tent, we groan under our burden, because we wish not to be unclothed but to be further clothed, so that what is mortal may be swallowed up by life. 5.He who has prepared us for this very thing is God, who has given us the Spirit as a guarantee. 6.So we are always confident; even though we know that while we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord-7.for we walk by faith, not by sight. 8.Yes, we do have confidence, and we would rather be away from the body and at home with the Lord. 9.So whether we are at home or away, we make it our aim to please him.
At the conclusion of the reading, The Reader says, “The Word of The Lord!”
All: Thanks be To God
THE
GRADUAL
HYMN
| “The King of Love My Shepherd is”
1. The King of love my shepherd is, whose goodness faileth never; I nothing lack if I am his, and he is mine forever.
2. Where streams of living water flow my ransomed soul he leadeth, and where the verdant pastures grow with food celestial feedeth.
3. Perverse and foolish, oft I strayed, but yet in love he sought me; and on his shoulder gently laid, and home, rejoicing, brought me.
4. In death’s dark vale I fear no ill, with thee, dear Lord, beside me; thy rod and staff my comfort still, thy cross before to guide me.
5. Thou spread’st a table in my sight; thy unction grace bestoweth; and oh, what transport of delight from thy pure chalice floweth!
6. And so through all the length of days, thy goodness faileth never; Good Shepherd, may I sing thy praise within thy house forever.
THE HOLY GOSPEL | Read by: The Clergy
Reader: The Lord be with you.
All: And also with you
Reader: A Reading from the Holy Gospel according to “John 14:1-6”
All: Glory to Christ our Saviour.
1.‘Do not let your hearts be troubled. Believe in God, believe also in me. 2.In my Father’s house there are many dwelling-places. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? 3.And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, so that where I am, there you may be also. 4. And you know the way to the place where I am going.’ 5.Thomas said to him, ‘Lord, we do not know where you are going. How can we know the way?’ 6.Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
Reader: The Gospel of Christ
All: Praise to Christ our Lord
TRIBUTE
| Mr. Deon DaCosta Gibson (Son)
SELECTION | Ms. Anya Bowe (Cousin)
THE HOMILY | Rev’d Fr. DeAngelo N. Bowe
THE CREED (The Apostle’s Creed)
Priest: Let us with confidence and hope confess faith into which we were baptized as we say:
All: 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 Holy Spirit, the Holy Catholic Church, the communion of Saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.
THE PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
| Led by: Adia Deveaux (Goddaughter) & Brandon McPhee (Adopted Son)
Leader: We have gathered to celebrate the entry of DeAnne Elizabeth into life eternal.
All: To affirm with praise and thanksgiving the goodness of the Lord.
Leader: Let us rejoice in God’s presence with us, in death as in life among those who now see God face to face.
All: Our lips will shout for joy, for God’s love is over all that God has made. Blessed be God’s glorious Name forever!
Leader: We feel the pain of separation, we are conscious of our loss, but we have hope in Jesus Christ.
All: We give thanks to God from whom comes all life and death and who surrounds us in both. We have affirmed our faith and rejoice in Christ’s victory over death, which is God’s promise to us.
Leader: Lord, You raised the dead to life.
All: Give to our sister DeAnne Elizabeth eternal life;
Leader: Our sister DeAnne Elizabeth was washed in Baptism and anointed with the Holy Spirit. Give her fellowship with all your saints.
All: Hear us, Lord.
Leader: She was nourished with Your Body and Blood; Grant her a place at the table in your heavenly kingdom.
All: Hear us, Lord..
Leader: Comfort us in our sorrows at the death of our sister, DeAnne Elizabeth. Let our faith be our consolation, and eternal life our hope.
All: Amen
THE PENITENCE
Priest: If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, God is faithful and just, and will forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. Let us therefore confess our sins.
All: Almighty God our Heavenly Father, we have sinned against You and one another, in thought, word and deed, and in what we have left undone. We are sorry and repent of all our sins. For your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ’s sake, forgive us all that is past, and grant that we may serve you in newness of life to the honour and glory of your Name.
THE ABSOLUTION
Celebrant: Almighty God, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness, and keep you in life eternal; through Jesus Christ, our Lord.
ALL: Amen.
OFFERTORY
HYMN | “How Sweet the name of Jesus Sounds”
1. How sweet the name of Jesus sounds in a believer’s ear! It soothes his sorrows, heals his wounds, and drives away our fear.
2. It makes the wounded spirit whole, and calms the troubled breast; ‘tis manna to the hungry soul, and to the weary, rest.
3. Dear name! The Rock on which I build, My Shield and hiding-place; My never-failing Treasury filled With boundless stores of grace.
4. Jesus! My Shepherd, Brother, Friend, my Prophet, Priest, and King, my Lord, my Life, my Way, my End, accept the praise I bring.
5. Weak is the effort of my heart, and cold my warmest thought; but when I see thee as thou art, I’ll praise Thee as I ought.
6. Till then I would thy love proclaim with every fleeting breath; and may the music of Thy name refresh my soul in death.
THE PRESENTATION OF THE OFFERINGS:
Celebrant: Through Your Goodness, Lord we have this bread and wine to offer, the fruit of the earth and the work of human hands. They will become our spiritual food.
All: All things come from you, O Lord, and of your own do we give you. Blessed be God forever. Amen
THE MINISTRY OF THE HOLY EUCHARIST
THE SURSUM CORDA
THE EUCHARISTIC PRAYER | Form E - Pg. 142 BCP
THE CONSECRATORY PRAYER
THE ACCLAMATION
THE PATER NOSTER
THE BREAKING OF BREAD
Celebrant: We break this bread to share in the Body of Christ.
All: Though we are many, we are one body, because we all share in one bread.
THE INVITATION
Celebrant: My brothers and sisters in Christ, draw near and receive His Body, which He gave for you, and His Blood, which He shed for you. Remember that He died for you and feed on Him in your hearts by faith with thanksgiving.
All: Grant us, gracious Lord, that we so eat the flesh of Your Dear Son, Jesus Christ and drink His Blood, that we may evermore dwell in Him and Him in us. Amen
THE AGNUS DEI
All: Lamb of God, You take away the sin of the world; grant her rest. Lamb of God, You take away the sin of the world; grant her rest. Lamb of God, You take away the sin of the world; grant her rest eternal.
COMMUNION HYMNS:
HYMN | “Guide me, O thou great redeemer”
1. Guide me, O thou great Redeemer, pilgrim through this barren land; I am weak, but thou art mighty; hold me with thy powerful hand: bread of heaven, feed me now and evermore.
2. Open now the crystal fountain whence the healing stream doth flow; let the fiery cloudy pillar lead me all my journey through: strong deliverer, be thou still my strength and shield.
3. When I tread the verge of Jordan, bid my anxious fears subside; death of death, and hell’s destruction, land me safe on Canaan’s side: songs and praises I will ever give to thee.
1. Alleluia, sing to Jesus! His the scepter, His the throne; Alleluia, his the triumph, his the victory alone: hark, the songs of peaceful Sion thunder like a mighty flood; Jesus out of every nation has redeemed us by his blood.
2. Alleluia, not as orphans are we left in sorrow now; alleluia, he is near us, faith believes, nor questions how: though the cloud from sight received Him when the forty days were o’er, shall our hearts forget His promise, ‘I am with you evermore’?
1.Lord, you give the great commission: ‘Heal the sick and preach the word.’ Lest the Church neglect its mission, and the Gospel go unheard, help us witness to Your purpose with renewed integrity, with the Spirit’s gifts empower us for the work of ministry.
2.Lord, you call us to Your service: ‘In My name baptize and teach.’ That the world may trust Your promise, life abundant meant for each, give us all new fervor, draw us closer in community. with the Spirit’s gifts empower us for the work of ministry.
3. Alleluia, Bread of angels, Thou on earth our food, our stay; Alleluia, here the sinful flee to thee from day to day: Intercessor, Friend of sinners, earth’s Redeemer, Plead for me, where the songs of all the sinless sweep across the crystal sea.
4. Alleluia, King eternal, thee the Lord of lords we own; alleluia, born of Mary, earth thy footstool, heaven thy throne: thou within the veil hast entered, robed in flesh our great High Priest; thou on earth both Priest and Victim in the Eucharistic feast.
HYMN | “Lord, you give the great commission” – 139 SH
5. Alleluia! Alleluia! Glory be to God on high! alleluia to the Savior, who has gained the victory; alleluia to the Spirit, fount of love and sanctity! alleluia, alleluia to the Triune Majesty.
3.Lord, you make the common holy: ‘This My body, this My blood.’ Let us all, for earth’s true glory, daily lift life heavenward, asking that the world around us share your children’s liberty with the Spirit’s gifts empower us for the work of ministry.
4.Lord, you show us love’s true measure: ‘Father, what they do, forgive.’ Yet we hoard as private treasure all that You so freely give. May your care and mercy lead us to a just society. with the Spirit’s gifts empower us for the work of ministry.
5.Lord, you bless with words assuring: ‘I am with you to the end.’ Faith and hope and love restoring, may we serve as You intend and, amid the cares that claim us, hold in mind eternity. with the Spirit’s gifts empower us for the work of ministry.
HYMN | “Alleluia, Sing to Jesus”
POST COMMUNION PRAYER:
All: Almighty God, we thank You that in Your great love You have fed us with the spiritual food and drink of the Body and Blood of Your Son Jesus Christ, and have given us a foretaste of Your heavenly banquet. Grant that this Sacrament may be unto us a comfort in affliction, and a pledge of our inheritance in that kingdom where there is no death, neither sorrow, nor crying, but the fullness of life with all your saints, through Jesus Christ our Saviour. Amen.
THANKSGIVING HYMN | “As pants The Heart For Cooling Streams”
1.As pants the hart for cooling streams when heated in the chase, So longs my soul, O God, for Thee, and Thy refreshing grace.
2.For Thee, my God, the living God, my thirsty soul doth pine; Oh, when shall I behold Thy face, thou Majesty Divine?
3.Why restless, why cast down, my soul?
Hope still, and thou shalt sing the praise of Him who is thy God, thy health’s eternal spring.
4.To Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, the Glory whom we adore, be glory, as it was, is now, and shall be evermore.
THE COMMENDATION
President: Give rest, O Christ to Your servant DeAnne Elizabeth with Your saints.
All: Where sorrow and pain are no more, neither sighing, but life everlasting.
President: You only are immortal, the Creator and Maker of mankind; and we are mortal, formed of the earth, and to the earth shall we return. For so did You ordain when You created me, saying, “You are dust, and to dust shall you return.” All of us go down to the dust; yet even at the grave we make our song: Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!
All: Give rest, O Christ, to your servant with your saints, where sorrow and pain are no more, neither sighing, but life everlasting. Amen
President: (facing the body says)
Let us commend our sister DeAnne Elizabeth to the mercy of God our Maker and Redeemer. Deliver your servant, DeAnne Elizabeth, O Sovereign Lord Christ, from all evil, and set her free from every bond, that she may rest with all your saints in the eternal habitations; where with the Father and the Holy Spirit you live and reign, one God for ever and ever.
All: Amen
President: Into Your hands, O merciful Saviour we commend your servant, DeAnne Elizabeth. Acknowledge, we humbly beseech you, a sheep of your own fold, a lamb of your own flock, a sinner of your own redeeming. Receive her soul into the arms of your mercy, in the blessed rest of everlasting peace, and into the glorious company of the saints in light.
All: Amen
President: Rest eternal grant unto her, O Lord.
All: And let light perpetual shine upon her.
President: May she and all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.
All: Amen.
RECESSIONAL HYMN | “All hail the power of Jesus name”
1. All hail the power of Jesus’ name! Let angels prostrate fall; Bring forth the royal diadem and crown him Lord of all.
2. Crown him, ye morning stars of light, Who fixed this floating ball; Now hail the strength of Israel’s might, And crown him Lord of all.
3. Crown him, ye martyrs of your God, who from his altar call; extol the Stem of Jesse’s Rod, and crown him Lord of all.
4. Ye seed of Isreal’s chosen race, ye ransomed of the fall, hail him who saves you by his grace, and crown him Lord of all.
5. Sinners whose love can ne’er forget the wormwood and the gall, go spread your trophies at his feet, and crown him Lord of all.
6. Let every tribe and every tongue before him prostrate fall, and shout in universal song the crowned Lord of all.
THE COMMITTAL
(The Consecration of the Grave)
GRAVESIDE HYMNS:
I AM THINE, O LORD, I HAVE HEARD THY VOICE
1.I am Thine, O Lord, I have heard Thy voice, And it told Thy love to me; But I long to rise in the arms of faith, And be closer drawn to Thee.
Draw me nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, To the cross where Thou hast died; Draw me nearer, nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, To Thy precious, bleeding side.
2.Consecrate me now to Thy service, Lord, By the pow’r of grace divine; Let my soul look up with a steadfast hope, And my will be lost in Thine.
3.Oh, the pure delight of a single hour
That before Thy throne I spend, When I kneel in prayer, and with Thee, my God, I commune as friend with friend!
4.There are depths of love that I cannot know Till I cross the narrow sea; There are heights of joy that I may not reach Till I rest in peace with Thee.
IT IS WELL
1. When peace like a river attendeth my way
When sorrow like sea billows roll Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say It is well, it is well with my soul.
It is well, It is well
With my soul, with my soul It is well, it is well with my soul.
2. Tho’ Satan should buffet tho’ trials should come
Let this blest assurance control That Christ has regarded my helpless estate And hath shed His own blood for my soul.
3. My sin oh the bliss of this glorious tho’t My sin not in part but the whole Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul.
4. And Lord, haste the day when the faith shall be sight
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll The trump shall resound and the Lord shall descend Even so it is well with my soul.
IT’S ALRIGHT NOW
1. There was a time I travelled
A lonely, sinful road
Beneath a burden bending low
But now all things are different
For Jesus took my load
It’s alright now, I’m His I know
It’s alright now,
It’s alright now, for I am in my Savior’s care
It’s alright now,
It’s alright now, my Savior hears and answers prayer
He’ll walk with me
He’ll walk beside me ‘til I climb the heavenly stair
And everything
And everything is alright now.
2. A down a lonely pathway
Without a friend to guide
I walked in sin and sorrow all alone
‘Til Jesus came and found me
And drew me to His side
It’s alright now, it’s alright now for I’m His own.
3. No more in sin I wander
No more in darkness roam
The Lord has placed my feet on higher ground
Each day new heights I’m gaining,
My soul is nearing Home
It’s alright now, I’m heaven bound.
BLESSED JESUS HOLD MY HAND
1.As I travel thru this pilgrim land
There is a friend who walks with me
Leads me safely thru the sinking sand
It is the Christ of Calvary
This would be my prayer dear Lord each day
To help me do the best I can
For I need Thy light to guide me day and night
Blessed Jesus, hold my hand.
Blessed Jesus, hold my hand
Yes, I need Thee ev’ry hour
Thru this land this pilgrim land
By Thy saving pow’r
Hear my plea my feeble plea
Lord dear Lord look down on me
When I kneel in prayer
Blessed Jesus, hold my hand.
2.Let me travel in the light divine
That I may see the blessed way
Keep me that I may be wholly Thine
And sing redemption’s song some day. I will be a soldier brave and true
And ever firmly take a stand
As I onward go and daily meet the foe
Blessed Jesus, hold my hand.
3.When I wander thru the valley dim
Toward the setting of the sun
Lead me safely to a land of rest
If I a crown of life has won I have put my faith in Thee dear Lord
That I may reach the golden strand
There’s no other friend on whom I can depend
Blessed Jesus, hold my hand.
Legacey Her
DeAnne Elizabeth Gibson
“WIFEY”
The Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper who is just right for him.” (Genesis 2:18)
Isat and stared at this screen for hours at a time trying to formulate my thoughts and words into some coherent order; because how do you consolidate 30 years into a few lines of text on a piece of paper? As I stressed about tasks, to-do lists and deadlines our organized son Daniel imposed on everyone in true “Dede” fashion, the words of one of your favorite verses came to me. Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths (Proverbs 3:5–6). A calming reassurance in the midst of turmoil.
DeAnne, Dede, Hun, Wifey, all the other names we’ve called each other over the years are so hard to utter now cause there’s no you with that big, vibrant smile looking back at me, or your soft caring voice answering me back!! The pain of this void is so unbearable, one day I’ll cry a little bit less, but will never stop loving the woman you were. You were so full of life and passionate in every area of our lives that the silence now is deafening.
Who could have ever imagined that a blind date 30 years ago between two total strangers would have developed into the story it has? An amazing journey that saw three awesome babies develop into even greater adults, making waves in the world the same way their mother did, ups and downs, disappointments and successes, all the challenges life threw at us, that with each and every one our God showed up and showed
out, constantly demonstrating His presence, grace, mercy and favor.
Since your initial diagnosis in 2012, for the last ten years, I have watched you battle this demon called Cancer with grace and tenacity, while at the same time making time to touch and care for everyone you came into contact with. I think your focus and your faith angered the devil such that he turned up the heat in early 2020 attacking you harder; he didn’t realize just what a warrior you were but you showed him over these last three years! Whilst your physical body may have succumbed, DeAnne your indomitable spirit will live on in the hundreds of people you have inspired and the hearts and soul of our children and me.
Hun, there are so few words to describe what you mean to me, how much you poured into our life together over the years. I have to say Thank you for all you have done. Loving and caring for you was more than just a fulfillment of our vows, but an honor and privilege God handed me on that faithful day in November 1993. On Tuesday morning, August 23rd, 2022 He came back for His earthly Angel, Warrior and Soldier to come home to rest. So while today I release your body, the memories you skillfully made sure to create will live on forever.
Wifey, One day we’ll have road trips again, see movies together again, travel together again, do date nights again, watch Game Show Network and HGTV together again (you know I must love you cause I’m committing to this in writing!), laugh together again. Until then, rest well my warrior Princess.
ALL MY LOVE
Dwight
MUMMY… YOU OWE ME NOTHING!
“Can a mother’s tender care cease towards the child she bears, though she may be forgetful be, I will ever cherish thee.”
Knowing me, is knowing I am the son of DeAnne Gibson, Culinary Tourism Executive, The Cookie Lady, Dazzling DeeDee. From running around Comfort Suites, Crystal Palace and attending summer camps at the Radisson, to dropping her off and picking her up at the various Ministry of Tourism, or culinary team meetings. From her attending my Toastmasters meetings, various speaking engagements, and even my friends’ weddings and our many parties. The scolding but accommodating of my “get togethers” turned into block parties. My mother has been by my side every step of the way, every occasion of my life she was there, even traveling to pick me up from camps across the US and Canada, she made sure I knew my mummy had my back.
Most people know that it was just DeeDee and Deon for a few years, and I think that special period created a connection we never really discussed but it is truly undeniable. She was undoubtedly my very best friend as much as she was my mother, and the ability to call her and ramble about my frustrations and whatever wild dreams I cooked up for us to embark on will be missed. I know that I was one of her confidants also as she shared many secrets with me that I shall continue to keep.
Mum, I feel like I’m rambling now, so I will bring this to a close. I will let my life continue to reflect the love I have for you and do my best to make you proud in everything I do. I’m sorry I didn’t give you the grandkids you asked for, but rest assured whenever they come, they will know all about you and the amazing Warrior Queen you are.
Thank you for all you have done for me and with me and rest easy knowing you owe me nothing and I owe you everything.
Love you forever,
Your forever Baby Boy aka First Born, Deon DaCosta Gibson
To say I’m broken I guess is the best word to describe how I feel, Mommy you came into this world, you met daddy and made me, you raised me to be a God-fearing young man, you inspired me to be a boss, and encouraged me to remain humble and left me as a King. Oh mommy how I miss you and I cannot think about you without tears in my eyes. God knew exactly what He was doing giving me to you on that Sunday morning 25 years ago. To me you were always just my mommy but little did I know I was in the presence of an Angel-Queen.
Mommy there are no words to tell you thank you enough for raising me the way you did, the way you sacrificed and worked hard and lived only to be an example. Being the middle child I often felt left out with Daria being daddy’s little princess and Deon being your first born but you always found a way to remind me that I was never alone in this journey called life. I know you never publicly declared this but I knew I was your favorite and always cherished our unspoken little secret. I tried my best to be just like you mommy, in everything I did I wanted it to be “Dee Dee” style even though that often meant us bucking heads and having subtle arguments about almost everything, I just wanted to always prove to you that I got it and you raised me to be independent. However, most of our disagreements ended up in me realizing that I needed you every single step of the way and there was no move I could make without you. Mommy you were and will always be my rock and firm foundation.
Mommy your faith has shown me so many reasons why I should remain faithful even in the midst of this storm.
Despite this emotional rollercoaster of a nightmare I am comforted by the words of one of our favorite songs that I find myself singing constantly these days…….
I couldn’t seem to fall asleep
There was so much on my mind
Searching for that peace
But the peace I could not find
So then I kneeled down to pray
Praying help me please
But then he said you don’t have to cry
‘Cause I’ll supply all your needs
As soon as I stop worrying
Worrying how the story ends I let go and I let God
Let God have His way
That’s when things start happening
When I stopped looking at back then I let go and I let God
Let God have his way
Mommy I don’t know how and I don’t know when but I will make it and I will see you again!
With all my life and all my love, Your Daniel Jarod, Your Danny, Your Danny Boy
MOMMY
,
don’t even know where to begin. You have been there for me every step of the way, every achievement and accomplishment, every parentteacher conference that turned into a very stern talking to on the ride home, every extra-curricular activity, every rant about how school is overwhelming, and most recently my graduation. All of life’s moments you’ve been there. You knew all the right things to say or do. You have been my role model and THE blueprint for my life. Everything that I am, everything that I do is because of you.
You always pushed me to be the best I could be, you never let me settle for average. For every endeavor I wanted to pursue, you always made a way. When I first expressed interest in pharmacy school, you made sure that I went to a summer camp no matter where it was, you ensured it happened. When I looked at universities, you took me to visit the schools in person. Mommy, you ALWAYS made it happen.
When you told us that your cancer came back in April 2020, I immediately knew that I needed to be there for you, and maybe that starting pharmacy school that August wasn’t the most ideal, but God had a plan that I would start school and be able to research your medications and give “advice” to your amazing nurse when you didn’t feel 100%. Those moments of reviewing your medication and looking at your labs will always be cherished in my heart
as, I would always tell daddy, make sure you ask the doctor about this.
You taught me to be resilient and strong through all life’s adversities. I’ve learned so much from you, and although I feel like I still have so much to learn, I will use all that I have gained from you to continue to be the young lady you have raised me to be.
I am beyond grateful that you were there at my Bachelor’s graduation, cheering me on being the proud mother you have always been. I know you were looking forward to watching me walk across the stage for my Doctorate, but I know you will be there in spirit. I will continue to make you proud as I complete this journey and dedicate it all to you.
Mommy, thank you so much for all that you have done for me. You have always been a pillar of strength for me and all those that came in contact with you. Thank you for starting the Cookie Lady, as it was never about me but continuing your legacy. Thank you for loving my friends as if they were your own and pushing them to be the best that they can be. Thank you for always being a phone call away whenever I needed advice or a debrief of the day. Most importantly, thank you for instilling the importance of prayer and trusting God’s plan.
I will continue to make you proud. I love you and you will forever be missed.
Your babygirl, Daria Elizabeth
DeAnne Elizabeth Gibson
DeAnne Elizabeth
Elizabeth Gibson
Elizabeth Gibson
| DeAnne Elizabeth Gibson | This Is My Story
SINCEREST THANKS:
We, the family of DeAnne Elizabeth Gibson truly and sincerely wish to thank everyone who called, visited, who prayed with and for us, offered help in any way possible and provided flowers, sympathy cards, food and drinks. We could not traverse these dark, sad, troubling days without your kindness and support. DeAnne would be very happy to know you cared for her family and helped to ease the burden of her loss. We hope that her one-of-a-kind smile stays in your hearts. May God richly bless and keep you.
The Family
PALLBEARERS
Darren A. McCartney
Drew A. McCartney
Eron E. Gordon
Lovant B. K. Gibson
Karl A. McCartney
Eric A. Gordon
Larry R. Gibson II
Leighton J. W. Gibson
HONORARY PALLBEARERS
Dwight F. Gibson
Daniel J.A. Gibson
Cardinal A. D. Williams
Keith A. McCartney
Maxwell E. Gibson
Funeral Service Entrusted To:
P.O. Box N-1026 Nassau Street Nassau, Bahamas
Deon D. Gibson
Brandon P. McPhee
DaCosta C. P. Williams
Eric Gordon
Larry R. Gibson
Provided by SIDDA Communications Group
Tel: 394-BOOK (2665)
Mobile: (242) 818-3478
Email: info@siddagroup.com Nassau, N.P. Bahamas