The Form & Order for the Celebration of the Solemn Eucharist in Thanksgiving to God for the Life and Witness of
Nickola
PATRICE GOMEZ-DAWKINS
Born: February 25th 1960
Died: March 6th 2026
Aged: 66
Service Held at Holy Cross Anglican Church Soldier Road at Highbury Park New Providence, The Bahamas On Thursday, April 9th 2026, at 10 am
Officiating:
The Rev’d Dr. Ethan P. J. Ferguson
Assisted by:
The Rev’d Fr. Berkley J. Smith
The Rev’d Canon Norman D. Lightbourne
The Rev’d Canon Peter A. G. Scott
The Rev’d Fr. Whitfield Hutcheson
The Rev’d Fr. Eric A. A. Miller
Organist
Mr. Calvin Parker & Mr. Justin Hudson
INTERMENT: Lakeview Memorial Gardens
NICKOLA (NICKI) GOMEZ-DAWKINS
Obituary
To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heavens Ecclesiastes 3: 1 (KJV)
Some people pass through this world quietly, leaving only faint memories behind. But others leave a mark so deep, so full of warmth and love, that their presence never truly fades. It lives on in every smile, every shared story, and every heart that they touch. Nicki was that kind of person. She was vibrant, full of life, and gave her love so freely. Her heart was open to everyone, and she had a way of making you feel like you mattered from the very first moment of the interaction. Through the Seasons of her life, she had an impact on those she encountered.
A time to be born
On February 25, 1960, Patrick and Jeanie Gomez welcomed the birth of their first daughter, Nickola Patrice (Nicki). Nicki’s birth came quickly, and was a welcome addition to the young Gomez family. She was the first girl following her brothers, Tony and Andy. Nicki was the first of the four sisters (including Nathalie “Nattie”, Michelle and Lisa). Nicki’s birth was a quiet, but powerful start to a life journey well-spent.
Nicki took her role as a big sister seriously, and was the glue that bonded and controlled everyone. Even though she was the third child, Nicki always was the independent mediator and found solutions to suit everyone, with minimal offense to others. Even when the siblings’ children came along, “Aunty Nicki” was the go-to person to support and guide the next generation. She spoke a language appropriate for all ages.
A Time for education
Nicki’s early education began at Eastern Junior School, which she attended with her brothers. When Kingsway Academy opened, she left her brothers for a new beginning with Nattie. Her time at Kingsway was always a part of her storytelling, about her special memories and friends.
After Kingsway, she attended the Big Red Machine, St. Augustine’s College, where she increased her pool of friends and educational successes. Upon graduating from SAC, she received the award for Chemistry. She then went onto another first, to the new College of the Bahamas (COB), where she got a taste of college life while still living at home. Nicki graduated from COB (now University of the Bahamas) with honors in dual degrees in Biology and Chemistry.
After graduating from COB, Nicki continued at Minnesota State University at Mankato to join her brother Tony, a graduate from MSU who was living in Minnesota. Tony was glad to show off his smart sister to his friends and to show his sister the Minnesotan and American way of life. Nicki ultimately completed her university program with a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science with a minor degree in Accounting.
Nicki graduated from the University of Miami with high honors in a Master’s Degree in Business Administration.
Many of her classmates often teased her family members that Nicki always finished the exams far too early, and they often had to ask her to sit for a while in the exam room, just so she would not make them look badly.
A time for professional life
After graduation, Nicki became a computer science professional, working at major corporations in The Bahamas, such as British American Bahamas, Resorts International (Atlantis) and then at BTC. Nicki was a hands-on Systems Integrator & Project Manager with a wealth of experience across a broad scope of industries in the implementation of IT and enterprise systems.
After being in executive management for many years, Nicki began her own firm, IBIIS Company Limited and became an IT Consultant, especially to her brother’s firms, Baker Tilly and Grant Thornton.
In recent years, she went back to her earlier professional roots in the insurance industry as a Certified Fellow, Life Management Institute (FLMI), and became an insurance broker for Star General, while still managing her IBIIS portfolio.
Nicki had an entrepreneurial spirit, and for many years she owned and operated The Corporate Lady, a boutique specializing in professional wear for women.
A time for family
Nicki’s greatest pride and joy was her daughter, Gabrielle Jade “Gabi” Dawkins. After Gabi’s birth, Nicki devoted her life to being a wonderful and dedicated mother.
It was easy for Nicki to talk about Gabi, with the listener fully sensing the love and pride that she had for her daughter. Nicki poured herself into Gabi, and in much the same way that Nicki excelled in school, she made sure that Gabi excelled in her own academics, as well as campus involvement and social life, making strong lasting friendships.
Nicki was excited to see the culmination of Gabi’s medical training to ultimately become a board-certified Internal Medicine physician, Dr. Gabrielle Dawkins! From working on the front lines of the Covid-19 pandemic to taking care of the most vulnerable populations in the hospital setting, Gabi learned to serve just like her mother, in her own way. They were the same, and yet different. Although they did not live in the same country, their bond continued to flourish over the years. In 2023, Gabi’s health took a turn and Nicki fully committed her time and prioritized Gabi’s care and return to good health. Although this period was emotionally difficult, it provided an opportunity for Nicki and Gabi to spend quality time in their adult years.
In addition to Gabi, Nicki made it abundantly clear to all, that her father and her mother, sisters and brothers and their families, were also an integral part of her life. Her commitment to them were marked by compassion, strength, and deep devotion
to her family.
Nicki’s fiancé and life partner was Dale Minnis. As childhood sweethearts, Nicki and Dale were bonded early in high school, and attended their prom together. As with any perfect romance novel, they got their second chance at their love story when they met again years later as mature adults. They enjoyed hanging out with their high school friends and traveling the world together. Dale was Nicki’s Co-Pilot, always accompanying her to Pilot events in the US, Bahamas, Japan, and elsewhere. Dale remained at Nicki’s side to the very end.
A time to live a faithful and committed life
Nicki had a strong faith, fully rooted in her personal relationship with God. She led a life that was strongly committed to church and community. She was a life-long member of Holy Cross Church, having been a member in excess of fifty-five years. Nicki served as head of the Girls Guides and Brownies; a Sunday School teacher; member of the count team, chairman of various Holy Cross Ball committees, a member and President of the Usher Board and one of the persons who started Holy Cross’ Junior Usher Ministry; Vestry member, People’s Warden. At the time of her passing, Nicki was Holy Cross’ Treasurer.
In the wider community, Nicki served as Treasurer of the Parkinson Foundation, as a member of the Red Cross’ Ball committee, a member of the Anglican Ball committee and her favorite organization, the Pilot Club.
As a Pilot, Nicki held various positions which included the Fund-Raising Coordinator, Treasurer, Vice President and President and then Governor of The Bahamas district.
At Pilot International she served as Director, then Vice President, PresidentElect and then the highest position of Pilot International, a worldwide organization.
Her crowning moment was when she was installed as President of Pilot International in Denver, Colorado. She was able to showcase The Bahamas to the world with approximately 700 delegates and friends of Pilot in attendance. Junkanoo, Ambassah and the video highlights of the Bahamas were on full display and of course this would not have been complete without a presentation by K. Darron Turnquest and the keynote address by her brother, Tony.
In 2025, Nicki was awarded the “Distinguished Leadership Award 2025” by the Caribbean Global Awards Committee, under the theme “Unity is Strength”, at a ceremony held on the 27th of September 2025 in London, England. While serving as the President of Pilot International, Nicki had the desire to expand the Pilot brand with the establishment of new Pilot clubs throughout the Caribbean, the United Kingdom and the rest of the world. Nicki inspired and promoted the establishment of a Pilot Club in Accra, Ghana, which is now, in fact, the sole Pilot Club on the African continent.
Nicki will be remembered as a true International Leader.
A time to show love
Nicki made it her mission to improve the lives of others and to get as many of her friends to become members in the organizations and groups that she was a part of. She was a mentor and true builder and she touched the lives of many who had the honor of knowing her.
She was a quiet pillar of strength, independent, calm, and unwavering in her love for others. To know Nicki was to know someone who could be everything to everyone. A confidant, a guide, a comfort, a steady hand in uncertain times. She gave of herself so freely, making countless sacrifices without ever seeking praise, finding her joy in lifting others up. She led with a gentle authority, never loud or forceful, but steady, wise, and sure-proof that true leadership is rooted in service. She was a teacher in every sense of the word, shaping lives through her compassion, her patience, and the powerful example she set each day.
Nicki’s nurturing spirit wrapped around those she loved like a warm embrace, and her intelligence shone not just in what she knew, but in how deeply she understood people. She carried herself with a quiet confidence, and her pleasant smile, so soft, so sincere, had a way of bringing comfort
even in the hardest moments. Nicki was not just loved; she was needed, cherished, and deeply felt. Her presence was a gift, her life a lesson, and her legacy one of grace, sacrifice, and enduring love that will continue to live on in every heart she touched.
The Final Season
In December 2025, following Christmas celebrations, Nicki began to feel that all was not well with her health. In midJanuary 2026, she attended doctors in The Bahamas and subsequently, in February 2026, she decided to get a formal opinion in Atlanta, Georgia, near her daughter, Gabi. It was there that she learned that her earthly journey was nearing completion, and on March 6, 2026, she passed from time to eternity.
Left to cherish her memory are:
Nickola is survived by her Daughter: Dr. Gabrielle Dawkins; Parents: Patrick & Jeanie Gomez; Fiancé: Dale Minnis; Brothers: Craig Tony Gomez (Candise Gomez) & High Commissioner, His Excellency Paul Andrew Gomez, Sisters: Nathalie Pache (Porfirio “Rafi” Pache), Michelle Gomez (Cliff Moxey), Lisa Moncur (LeRoy Moncur II); Aunts: Jackie & Linda Gomez, Louise Dorsett, Murtel & Flornell Gomez; Nieces & Nephews: Vaughan & Stacy Miller, Anthony (Holly Sands), Bianca “Toni”, Craig Antoin & Cameron “Cam” Gomez, Paul Andrew II & Naeemah Gomez, Dr. Charles Lucas & Dr. Adrienne Gomez-Lucas, Rayne, Deja (Mychael Clarke) & Yale Rutherford (Shannon Wilson), Corei, Ciaro (Michaela Watkins) & Mischa Moxey & Liya & LeRoy “Tre” Moncur III; Grand Nieces and Nephews: Kaden & Kyle Miller, Paul III “Pablo”, Elliot “Cruz” & Christian Gomez, Cheryll-Marie & Anderson Lucas, Daii-Amor Thompson, JaZiya, Rome & Reagan
Riley; Relatives & Friends: Gracine Sermons & Family, Vernon Burrows & Family, Christine Burrows-Williams & Family, Mr. & Mrs. Melvin Brown & Family, Glenroy & Elaine Aranha & Family, Sherry Wood & Family, Devon, Fran & Charmaine Aranha, Cheryl & Marva Aranha, The Aranha Family, Mary Carmel Ritchie, Kenny Stuart & Jasmin Lundy, Kurtz & Carol Ritchie, Mark & Kressville Ritchie, Keith & Elaine Gomez & Family, Leonardo & Patrice Miller, Humphrey Gomez, Jerome & Jean Gomez & Family, Warren Gomez & Family, Marco Gomez & Family, Shantel Gomez & Family, Donna Johnson & Family, Danny & Subrenna Higgs & Family, James & Christine Gomez & Family, John & Simone Gomez & Family, Calae Rolle, Monique Bethel, Dwayne & Tiffany
Pratt, Lisa Rolle, Jason Gomez & Family, Alicia Gomez, Bentley Collie & Family, Hyacinth Grant & Family, Ida Stuart, Lorna Stuart-Taylor, Carol Brice & Family, Diane Curtis & Family, Dr. Adrian Fox & Family, Dominic Sturrup & Family, Lisa Gomez & Family, Andy Gomez & Family, Antoinette Aranha & Family, The Family of the late Edna Miller, The Family of the late William & Alfreda Brennen, The Family of the late Elmore Gomez, The Gomez Family, The Brennen Family, Daisy French, Gregory & Elizabeth Burrows & Family, Yale & Tammi Rahming & Family, Krystal Tynes, Margaret Dillet & Family, Lenora Daniels & Family, Gina Sweeting & Family,
David & Tonya Maynard & Family, Kathy Ingraham & Family, Andi Barr & Family, Carole Barnett, Stephanie Ferguson & Family, Terah Sweeting & Family, Tammy Clarke, Anthony Butler & Family, K. Darron Turnquest, Patrick Rollins, Beverly & Shelly Archer, Ghislane Wilkinson, Keith & Deidra Sands & Family, Patrick & Eulamae Edwards, Loretta Parris, Eva Hilton & Family, Beverley Wallace-Whitfield, Douglas & Angeline Turnquest, The Honourable Justice Bernard & April Turner, Francis Ledee & Family, Angelo Dean & Katina
Roach-Dean & Family, Lydia Isaacs, Wendy Williams, Debbie Smith, Jeffrey Coakley, Kim Major, Ileen Barthley, Cynthia Roye, Natasha Brown, James & Kara Virgill, Antoine & Mei-Lin Hinsey, Carlos & Anastarcia Palacious, LaGary & Mitzy Simpson, Marquisha Franks, Jyssica Batiste, Corey & Kiara Johnson, Dr. Jia Yee & Mark Smiley, Drs. Sassine Ghanem & Evgenia Granina, Matthew Eapen & Dr. Amy Phillips, Dr. Isha Mehta, Dr. Isabel Marcano & Family, Dr. Seema Malkana, Dr. Mica Winchester, Dr. Amber Kuk, DeAsia Lewis, Sanae Murata, Jeanette Dormio, Kathleen Dummeth, Elaine Butler & Family, Venencia Thompson & Family, Patricia Neilly & Family, Barbara Johnson & Family, Marco & Cleo Rolle & Family, Mavis Tinker & Family, Monica Moss & Family, Dellareece Kemp & Family, Joette Edwards, LaDonna Laing, Monalisa Hanna & Family, Paul & Jan Major & Family, Florence
Rahming & Family, Mavis Darling Hill & Family, Ludell Ferguson & Family, Ava Thompson, Stoney & Julie Duncanson & Family, Marcella Sands, David Curry, Troy & Violet Johnson & Family, The Family of the late Joyce Drakes, Cherrylee Pinder, The Community of Palmetto Village, Gwendolyn Brice, PS Loraine Armbrister & Mr. Armbrister & Family, Delores Scavella & Family, Mrs. Hutchinson & family, Denice Sears, Renee McKinney & Family, Mr. Tony Pratt Family, Gwayne Ward & The Ward Family, The Right Honourable Philip Davis, KC and Mrs. Ann Marie Davis, Paulette Campbell & Family, The Right Honourable Hubert Ingraham & Mrs. Delores Ingraham & Family, Mr. & Mrs. Roosevelt Nixon & Family, Nicole Seymour & Family, Dave Hanna & Family, Lillian Smith & Family Patricia Burke & Family, Mitzi Swaby, Leroy & Deloris Moncur, Dr. Leander & Andrea Moncur & Family, Joseph & Mary Mycklewhyte & Family, Peter & Phyllis Garraway, Liu Yun, The Soldier Road Boys, Sir Franklyn & Lady Sharon Wilson, Anthony & Renee Barrow, Pat Mortimer & Stan Davis, Jason & Elsie Moxey, Mae Curry, Tex & Denise Turnquest, Ms. Genie Nutall, Damian & The Honourable Madam Justice Indira Francis, HC Richard & Mrs. Ruth Demeritte, Val & Thelma Grimes, Felix & Carla Stubbs, Minister Fred Mitchell, Ambassador Dr. Gilbert
Morris, Andrew Owen, Dr. Selvin Seymour, Dr. Nazia Habib, Andy Ingraham, Tonya Bastian & Family, Garth Fraser & The Honourable Madam Justice Debbie Fraser, The Honourable Madam Justice Cheryl Grant Thompson, Sir Arthur and Lady Foulkes, Lorraine Collins, Hon Algernon & Retired Honourable Justice Anita Allen, Duchess Williams-Alonga, Dr. Evadney Keith, Shando Rolle, Fr. Stephen Coleman and Mrs. Coleman, Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Mitchell, Candice Hanna, Tina Demeritte, Barbara Outten, BJ Saunders, Janet Johnson, Cherisse Moss, Dave Cartwright, Craig Gibson, George Watson, Dellareese Symonette, Mary Mitchell, Jeffrey Beckles, Lloyd Wong, Allison Christie, DHC Janet Charles, Damian Francis , Franz Hepburn, Melvin Claridge, Majestic Tours, Michael & Bernadette Saunders, Rev. Milton Pinder & Family, Michael Bethel, Michael & Dulce Pratt, Robert & Linda Bartlett, Rory Higgs & Family, Danny & Ingrid Knowles, Sheila McPhee, Eric and Lynn Gibson, Charles Scott, H.E., Max and Allyson Gibson, British High Commissioner, H.E. Smitta Rossetti, Dame Mary Martin, Eldridge McPhee, Matthew Mitchell Malvese, Minister Glenys Hanna Martin, John Bain, Danny Ferguson, Antoine and Lisa Bastian, Justice Cheryl Bazard,, Justice Cheryl Grant, Catherine Bellot, Ambassador Pat Hermanns,
Diana Wallace, James and Freda Malcolm, Paul and Jan Major, Gina McKenzie, Dr. Debbie Bartlett, Leslie Vanderpool, Phillip and Hedda Smith, Elaine Pinder, Albertha Bartlett, Sharon Stuart, Gandhi Pinder, Dr. Veronica McIver, Stan & Dennie Burnside, Mary Elfituri, Dedrie Turnquest, Deborah Jamieson, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Caricom Caucus of High Commissioners in London, Bahamas High Commission in London, Baroness Patricia Scotland, Karen Cummings Palmer, Charles & Andrea Gordon, Gilles & Inez Graham, Ambassador Tony Joudi, Kendall and Emily Demeritte, Don & Sue Demeritte, Ambassador Peter Deveaux-Isaacs & Mrs. Isaacs, John Xanthoudakis, Julius Xanthoudakis, Mr. & Mrs. Terry Corcoran, Raffaele & Josefina Di Lillo, Mrs. Michaelene Holder-March, Caribbean Global Awards Alpha Intel, Tracey Godet, Patrick Wilson & Family, Inell Adderley, Linda Bain, Ilene Smith & Family, Judy Williams & Family, Anne Turnquest & Family, Sonia Saunders, Evan Dean & Family, Nathaniel Adderley & Family, Gladstone & Marva Patton & Family, Renee Hamilton, Debbie Stubbs & Family, Tony Galanis & Family, Shirley Russell & Family, Kelly Burrows & Family, Kendal “Funky” Demeritte & Family, Ivan Butler & Family, The Gardiner Family, Lavern Cooper, Malcolm Adderley & Family, Seron Adams, Derek Rutherford & Family, Roselene Gustelia & Family, Michael Saunders, Marko Chea & Family, The entire Bartlett Family, Mark & Naja Finlayson, Andrew & Sheryl Chea, Dellareese Roxbury-Wilson, Cleomie Lightbourne, Shelton & Shelly Beneby & Family, Brenda Duvalier & Family, Loretta Butler Turner, Patricia Roberts & Family, Dominque Johnson & The Honourable Madam Justice Denise Lewis-Johnson & Family, Pam Smith, Christa Grant & Family, Vivian Dean & Family, Dr. Christine Chin & Family, Dr. Sheena Antonio Collie, Vanessa Colby & Family, Mary Davis & Family, Illinois Cash & Family, Anne Smith & Family, Wanda Williams, Leesa Coakley & Family, Vasco Bastian & Family, Glen & Zina Pratt & Family, The Moncur Family, Antoinette Knowles, Victorine Bannister-Collie, Holy Cross Anglican Church Family, St. Margaret’s Anglican Church Family, Canon Lightbourne & Mrs. Wendy Lightbourne, Fr. Ethan Ferguson & Rev’d Anatol Ferguson, The Rt. Reverend Laish Z. Boyd & Mrs. JoAnne Boyd & Family, Whitfield Hutcheson & Mrs. Hutcheson & Family, The Partners & Staff of Baker Tilly, Star General Insurance Company, Bahamas District of Pilot International, Pilot International, SAC Class of 1977, Go Go Flamingo Staff and a host of relative and friends too numerous to mention.
Order of Service
THE RECEPTION OF THE BODY
Celebrant: With faith in Jesus Christ, we receive the body of our Nickola Patrice 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.
Celebrant: The Lord be with you.
All: And also with you.
Celebrant: Let us pray.
O God of grace and glory, we remember before you this day our Nickola Patrice. 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: Praise be God, the Father of Our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all consolations! He comforts us in all afflictions and thus enables us to comfort those who are in trouble, with the same consolation we have received from Him.
People: Blessed be God, the Father of Our Lord Jesus Christ.
Celebrant: I bless the body of Nickola Patrice 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.
OPENING SENTENCES
Jesus said, I am the Resurrection, and I am the life: he who believes in Me, though he dies, yet shall he live, and whoever 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 the 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
Condolences | Mrs. Connie Moore, Pilot International Past President 2016-2017
Tributes | Tre Moncur (Nephew) on behalf of Lisa Moncur (Sister)
Corei Moxey (Nephew), Soloist
K. Darron Turnquest (Friend)
Prisca Burrows, Soloist
Craig Tony Gomez (Brother)
The congregation stands for the opening hymn:
All:
INTROIT HYMN | How Bright These Glorious Spirits Shine
1 HOW bright these glorious spirits shine! Whence all their white array? How came they to the blissful seats Of everlasting day?
2 Lo! these are they from sufferings great Who came to realms of light; And in the Blood of Christ have washed Those robes that shine so bright.
3 Now with triumphal palms they stand Before the Throne on high, And serve the God they love amidst The glories of the sky.
4 Hunger and thirst are felt no more, Nor suns with scorching ray; God is their Sun, Whose cheering beams Diffuse eternal day.
5 The Lamb, Who dwells amid the Throne, Shall o’er them still preside, Feed them with nourishment Divine, And all their footsteps guide.
6 In pastures green He’ll lead His flock, Where living streams appear; And God the Lord from every eye Shall wipe off every tear.
7 To Father, Son and Holy Ghost, The God whom we adore, Be glory, as it was, is now, And shall be evermore.
THE COLLECTS Collect of Purity
Almighty God, to you all hearts are open, all desires known, and from you no secrets are hid: Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love you, and worthily magnify your Holy Name, through Christ our Lord. Amen
Celebrant: Let us pray:
Almighty God, we remember before You today Your servant Nickola Patrice 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, 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. Amen
The congregation sits
THE SCRIPTURE READINGS
THE FIRST LESSON | Wisdom 3:1-5,9 | Read by: Mark Daniels (Godson)
Reader: A Reading from the word of God written in the book of Wisdom
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.
Reader: The Word of The Lord
All: Thanks be to God
The congregation remains seated as the choir leads the psalm
THE SECOND LESSON | 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
Read by: High Commissioner, His Excellency Paul Andy Gomez (Brother)
Reader: A Reading from the word of God written in the book of Thessalonians
13 But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers and sisters,[a] about those who have died,[b] so that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope. 14 For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have died.[c] 15 For this we declare to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will by no means precede those who have died.[d] 16 For the Lord himself, with a cry of command, with the archangel’s call and with the sound of God’s trumpet, will descend from heaven, and the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up in the clouds together with them to meet the Lord in the air; and so we will be with the Lord for ever. 18 Therefore, encourage one another with these words.
Reader: The Word of the Lord.
All: Thanks be to God.
The congregation stands for the singing of the gradual hymn and remains standing for the gospel proclamation
Gradual Hymn | Great Is Thy Faithfulness
1 Great is thy faithfulness, O God my Father, there is no shadow of turning with thee; thou changest not, thy compassions they fail not, as thou hast been thou for ever wilt be.
{Chorus}
Great is thy faithfulness! Great is thy faithfulness; morning by morning new mercies I see; all I have needed thy hand hath provided great is thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!
2 Summer and winter, and springtime and harvest, sun, moon and stars in their courses above, join with all nature in manifold witness to thy great faithfulness, mercy and love. {Chorus}
3 Pardon for sin, and a peace that endureth, thy own dear presence to cheer and to guide; strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow, blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside! {Chorus}
All, including members of the bereaved, to stand for the chanting of The Gospel
THE GOSPEL
| John 14: 1-6
Gospeller: The Lord be with you
People: And also with you
Gospeller: A Reading from the Holy Gospel of Our Lord Jesus Christ, according to John People: Glory to Christ Our Saviour
14 ‘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.
Gospeller: This is the Gospel of Christ
All: Praise to Christ Our Lord
Anthem by The Choir
Devotional | This Is Holy Ground
1 This is holy ground
We’re standing on holy ground
For the Lord is present
And where He is is holy This is holy ground {Chorus}
We’re standing on holy ground
For the Lord is present
And where He is is holy
2 These are holy hands
He’s given us holy hands
He works through these hands
And so these hands are holy {Chorus}
THE SERMON | The Rev. Dr. Ethan P. J. Ferguson
THE APOSTLE’S CREED (All Stand)
Minister: Let us with confidence and hope confess the faith into which we were baptised, as we say, 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.
THE INTERCESSIONS | Led by: Elizabeth Burrows (Friend)
LEADER: Comfort us in our sorrows at the death of our sister. Let our faith be our consolation, and eternal life our hope. Silence may be kept.
LEADER: Let us pray. Almighty God, you have knit your chosen people together in one communion, in the mystical body of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord: Give to your whole Church in heaven and on earth your light and your peace.
PEOPLE: Hear us, Lord.
LEADER: May all who have been baptized into Christ’s death and resurrection die to sin and rise to newness of life, and may we with Him pass through the grave and gate of death to our joyful resurrection.
PEOPLE: Hear us Lord.
LEADER: Grant to us who are still in our pilgrimage, and who walk as yet by faith, that Your Holy Spirit may lead us in holiness and righteousness all our days.
PEOPLE: Hear us, Lord.
LEADER: Grant to your faithful people pardon and peace, that we may be cleansed from all our sins and serve you with a quiet mind.
PEOPLE: Hear us, Lord
LEADER: Grant to all who mourn a sure confidence in your loving care that, casting all their sorrow on you, they may know the consolation of your love.
PEOPLE: Hear us, Lord.
LEADER: Give courage and faith to those who are bereaved, that they may have strength to meet the days ahead in the comfort of a holy and certain hope, and in the joyful expectation of eternal life with those they love.
PEOPLE: Hear us, Lord
Silence may be kept.
ACT OF PENITENCE
Celebrant: 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.
A period of silence shall be kept.
Celebrant: 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 the newness of life to the glory of Your name. Amen.
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
ELEMENT BEARERS
| Tazia Sweeting (Goddaughter) Anthia Butler (Friend)
OFFERTORY & CENSING HYMN | And Can It Be
1 And can it be that I should gain an interest in the Saviour’s blood? Died he for me, who caused his pain For me, who him to death pursued?
Amazing love! How can it be, That Thou, my God, shouldst die for me!
Amazing love! How can it be, that thou, my God, shouldst die for me!
2 ’Tis mystery all: th’Immortal dies: Who can explore his strange design? In vain the first-born seraph tries to sound the depths of love divine. ’Tis mercy all! Let earth adore, Let angel minds inquire no more. ’Tis mercy all! Let earth adore, Let angel minds inquire no more.
3 He left his Father’s throne above so free, so infinite his grace emptied himself of all but love, and bled for Adam’s helpless race: ’Tis mercy all, immense and free, for O my God, it found out me! ’Tis mercy all, immense and free, for O my God, it found out me!
4 Long my imprisoned spirit lay, fast bound in sin and nature’s night; thine eye diffused a quickening ray— I woke, the dungeon flamed with light; my chains fell off, my heart was free, I rose, went forth, and followed thee. My chains fell off, my heart was free, I rose, went forth, and followed Thee.
5 No condemnation now I dread; Jesus, and all in Him, is mine; Alive in Him, my living Head, and clothed in righteousness divine. Bold I approach th’eternal throne, and claim the crown, through Christ my own. Bold I approach th’eternal throne, and claim the crown, through Christ my own.
THE PRAYER OVER THE GIFTS
President: 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 by God forever. Amen.
THE DOXOLOGY
THE EUCHARISTIC PRAYER
Celebrant: The Lord be with you
All: And also with you.
Celebrant: Lift up your hearts.
All: We lift them up to the Lord.
Celebrant: Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
All: It is right to give God thanks and praise.
Celebrant: It is right, and a good and joyful thing, always and everywhere to give you thanks, Father almighty, everlasting God; Through Jesus Christ our Lord; who rose victorious from the dead and comforts us with the blessed hope of eternal life. For to your faithful people, O Lord, life is changed, not ended; and when our mortal body lies in death, there is prepared for us a dwelling place eternal in the heavens.
Therefore, we praise you, joining our voices with angels and archangels and with all the company of heaven, who forever sign this hymn to proclaim the glory of Your Name:
All: Holy, Holy Lord, God of power and might; heaven and earth are full of Your glory, Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is He who comes in the Name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest.
(All kneel)
Celebrant: Sovereign Lord and Father, to You be glory and praise forever. In Your boundless wisdom You brought creation into being; In your great love You fashioned us in Your image; in your tender compassion You sent Your Son, Jesus Christ, our Saviour, to share our human nature; in the power of the Holy Spirit, He overcame the power of sin and death and brought Your people to new birth as first fruits of Your new creation. On the night that He was betrayed He took bread, and when He had given thanks to You, He broke it and gave it to His disciples and said: “Take this, and eat it: This is my Body which is given for You, Do this for the remembrance of me.”
And after supper He took the cup of wine: and when He had given thanks, He gave it to them and said: “Drink this, all of you: This is my Blood of the New Covenant, which is shed for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Whenever you drink it, do this for the remembrance of me.”
Celebrant: Therefore, Father, according to the command of Your dearly beloved Son:
All: We remember his death. We proclaim His resurrection. We await His coming in glory.
Celebrant: And we offer You, Father, our sacrifice of thanks and praise. Send your Holy Spirit on these gifts of bread and wine that they may become the Body and Blood of Your Son, Jesus, our Lord and Redeemer. As we partake of this holy food of new and unending life, may Your Holy Spirit establish us as a royal priesthood with the Blessed Virgin Mary, Blessed Joseph, Blessed John the Baptist, and all your sons and daughters who share in your eternal inheritance; Through Jesus Christ our Lord. With Him and in Him and through Him by the power of the Holy Spirit, we worship You, Father Almighty, with all who stand before You in earth and heaven, in songs of everlasting praise: All: Blessings and honour and glory and power be Yours forever and ever. Amen.
THE BREAKING OF THE 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: God of promise, You have prepared a Banquet for us.
All: Happy are those who are called to the supper of the Lamb.
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 | Hark My Soul! It Is The Lord
1 HARK, my soul! it is the Lord; ‘ Tis thy Saviour, hear His Word; Jesus speaks, and speaks to thee, “Say, poor sinner, lovest thou Me? “I delivered thee when bound,
2 And, when bleeding, healed thy wound; Sought thee wandering, set thee right, Turned thy darkness into light.
3 “Can a woman’s tender care Cease towards the child she bare? Yes, she may forgetful be, Yet will I remember thee.
4 “Mine is an unchanging love, Higher than the heights above, Deeper than the depths beneath, Free and faithful, strong as death.
5 “Thou shalt see My glory soon, When the work of grace is done; Partner of My Throne shalt be; Say, poor sinner, lovest thou Me?”
6 Lord, it is my chief complaint That my love is weak and faint; Yet I love Thee, and adore; O for grace to love Thee more.
And Now O Father Mindful
1 And now, O Father, mindful of the love that bought us, once for all, on Calvary’s tree, and having with us him that pleads above, we here present, we here spread forth to thee that only offering perfect in thine eyes, the only true, pure, immortal sacrifice
2 Look, Father, look on his anointed face, and only look on us as found in him; look not on our misusings of thy grace, our prayer so languid, and our faith so dim; for lo! Between our sins and their reward we set the passion of thy Son our Lord.
3 And then for those, our dearest and our best, by this prevailing presence we appeal; O fold them closer to thy mercy’s breast, O do thine utmost for their souls’ true weal; from tainting mischief keep them white and clear, and crown thy gifts with strength to persevere.
4 And so we come; O draw us to thy feet, most patient Saviour, who canst love us still; and by this food, so awful and so sweet, deliver us from every touch of ill; in thine own service make us glad and free, and grant us never more to part with thee.
1 God sent His son, They called Him, Jesus; He came to love, Heal and forgive; He lived and died To buy my pardon, An empty grave is there To prove my Savior lives!
{Chorus}
Because He lives, I can face tomorrow! Because He lives, All fear is gone. Because I know He holds the future, And life is worth the living, Just because He lives!
Because He Lives
2 How sweet to hold A newborn baby, And feel the pride And joy he brings; But greater still The calm assurance: This child can face Uncertain days because He Lives! {Chorus}
3 And then one day, I’ll cross the river, I’ll fight life’s final War with pain; And then, as death Gives way to victory, I’ll see the lights of glory And I’ll know He lives! {Chorus}
O Jesu, Blessed Lord
1 O Jesu, blessèd Lord, to thee my heartfelt thanks for ever be, who hast so lovingly bestowed on me thy body and thy blood.
2 Break forth, my soul, for joy, and say, ‘What wealth is come to me today! My Saviour dwells within me now; how blest am I! How good art thou!’
THE 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 to us a comfort in affliction, and a pledge of our inheritance in that kingdom where there is no death, neither sorrow not crying, but the fullness of joy with all your saints through Jesus Christ our Saviour. Amen.
THANKSGIVING HYMN | Jerusalem The Golden
JERUSALEM the golden, With milk and honey blest, Beneath thy contemplation Sink heart and voice opprest. I know not, oh, I know not What joys await us there, What radiancy of glory, What bliss beyond compare.
They stand, those halls of Sion, All jubilant with song, And bright with many an Angel, And all the Martyr throng; The Prince is ever in them, The daylight is serene, The pastures of the blessed Are decked in glorious sheen.
There is the throne of David; And there, from care released, The shout of them that triumph, The song of them that feast; And they, who with their Leader Have conquered in the fight, For ever and for ever Are clad in robes of white.
O sweet and blessed country, The home of God’s elect! O sweet and blessed country That eager hearts expect! Jesu, in mercy bring us To that dear land of rest; Who art, with God the Father And Spirit, ever Blest.
THE COMMENDATION:
Minister: Give rest, O Christ to your servant with our saints.
All: Where sorrow and pain are no more neither sighing, but life everlasting.
Minister: You only are immortal, the creator and maker of mankind; and we are mortal, formed of the earth, and to 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.
Minister: Lord have mercy
All: Christ have mercy
Minister: Lord have mercy
Minister: Our Father…
All: …. who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name; they kingdom come; thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.
Minister: And lead us not into temptation.
People: But deliver us from evil
Minister: Let us commend our sister to the mercy of God our Maker and Redeemer. Deliver Your servant sister 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 live and reign, one God for ever and ever. Amen.
All: Amen
Minister: Let us pray:
Into Your hands, O merciful Saviour, we commend Your servant Nickola Patrice. Acknowledge we humbly ask you, a sheep of Your own fold, a lamb of Your own flock, a sinner of Your own redeeming. Receive her into the arms of Your mercy, into the blessed rest of eternal peace, and into the glorious company of the saints in light.
All: Amen
Minister: Rest eternal grant to her O Lord.
All: And let light perpetual shine upon her.
Minister: May she rest in peace.
All: Amen.
Minister: May her soul and the souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace.
All: Amen
THE RECESSIONAL HYMN | It Is Finished
1 There’s a line That’s been drawn through the ages
On that line stands the old rugged cross
On that cross, a battle is raging
For the gain of man’s soul or his loss
{Chorus}
It is finished. The battle is over It is finished. There’ll be no more war
It is finished. The end of the conflict
It is finished, and Jesus is Lord
2 On one side march the forces of evil
All the demons and devils of hell
On the other the angels of glory
And they meet on Golgotha’s hill {Chorus}
3 The earth shakes with the force of the conflict
And the sun refuses to shine
For there hangs God’s Son in the balance
And then through the darkness He cries {Chorus}
4 Then I heard that the King of the Ages Had fought all the battles for me And vict’ry was mine for the claiming And now praise His name I am free {Chorus}
GRAVESIDE HYMNS
It Is Well With My Soul
When peace like a river attendeth my way, When sorrows like sea billows roll; Whatever my lot Thou hast taught me to say, “It is well, it is well with my soul!”
It is well with my soul! It is well, it is well with my soul!
Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come, Let this blest assurance control, That Christ hath regarded my helpless estate, And hath shed His own blood for my soul.
My sin—oh, the bliss of this glorious thought—
My sin, not in part, but the whole, Is nailed to His Cross, and I bear it no more; Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!
For me, be it Christ, be it Christ hence to live; If dark hours about me shall roll, No pang shall be mine, for in death as in life Thou wilt whisper Thy peace to my soul.
It’s Alright Now
There was a time I traveled
A lonely sinful road
Beneath a heavy burden bending low But now all things are different
For Jesus took my load
It’s alright now I’m His I know
{Chorus}
It’s alright now
For I am in my Savior’s care It’s alright now
My Savior hears and answers prayer He’ll walk beside me
‘Til I climb the heav’nly stair And ev’rything is alright now
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 for I’m His own
(Repeat Chorus)
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
(Repeat Chorus)
An Unbreakable Bond
Mummy, the love I have for you needs no words. We have been a pair since I could remember. If someone knew one of us, they knew both of us. I’m so grateful to have had a lifetime of shared experiences with you!
I love you mummy.
Love, Gabi
OUR DARLING DAUGHTER,Nicki
As a child, our Nicki was always a loving, kind, inquisitive, and caring child. Nicki was the third of six children. She grew up in our Family loved by all, comfortable and focused. She was always willing to do her portion of chores and more. She was also a little shy.
She grew up with the boys, her brothers, Tony and Andy. As they played or discussed different things, Nicki would join in, add on, or take away whatever she wanted. She was skinny, and they would tease her sometimes, but this made her tough and she would answer them back! Nicki was like a second mother to her three younger Sisters - Nattie, Michelle and Lisa, often taking the blame for trouble they caused. This toughened her up even more! We knew she covered for them, so her punishment was always less that it could have been.
Nicki excelled in her school work and always got top grades school. In College and in any professional studies afterward, she always was an avid reader and a high achiever. She applied a logical, scientific mind to a variety of business ventures and positions. She was Leader, not a Follower.
Nicki joined Holy Cross Church from childhood and was involved in many of the organizations, from Girl Guides and many other groups up to the time of her passing when she served as Treasurer. She loved giving and serving others. She served in many other organizations where she shared her time and talents - and she was happy to do it!
Nicki’s greatest joy and service was to her daughter, Dr. Gabrielle Dawkins - The Love of Her Life. Into Gabi, Nicki poured a lifetime of learning, passion, and care, ensuring that Gabi would always have what she needed to support, care for and defend herself. But Nicki was never far away, always ready to travel, to celebrate and to counsel Gabi no matter what the situation.
Nicki was full of positivity, and her beautiful smile and humorous words would light up any room. She believed in finding solutions to problems, and would help anyone that she came into contact with. If she could not personally help, she did not hesitate to pick up the phone and find someone who could! Nicki was the glue of our family, and even during months of traveling, she made sure that everything and all of us were doing well!
God gave us a beautiful loving and caring daughter for 66 years. Her passing has left a complete hole in our hearts. Nicki experienced lots of discomfort in her abdomen in early 2026. After checking with her doctors here at the home, she sought specialists in the US, who confirmed that she was seriously ill and suffering from a very rare cancer. Nicki was immediately given the recommended 48 hours of aggressive treatment that was unsuccessful. She passed away on March 6th, 2026.
Nicki’s death has struck our family like a massive whirlwind which passed by and it took Nicki so quickly and unexpectedly.
We are now beginning to understand that Our Heavenly Father saw that His loving and caring child, who had diligently served him for so many years, would have suffered too much from this awful illness. He called her Home to protect her from certain long-term pain and suffering.
Thank you, Lord, for all Your love, mercy and protection of our Family. May your Will be done. To God be all the Glory!
Thank you, Nicki, for the Beautiful Moments and Memories that you lived and shared during your time with your whole Family. We Love you, But Jesus Loves You Best! Mummy & Daddy
Nickola AND I
There are people who come into our lives for a season, and there are those rare souls who become woven into the fabric of our lives forever. Nickola was that rare soul for me.
I first met Nickola in 1972 when we were in high school together. What began as friendship soon grew into something deeper, and over the years from 1972 to 1978 she became not only my high school girlfriend, but my very best friend. Those were the years when life was just beginning to unfold before us, and we shared dreams, laughter, and the simple joy of being young together.
Life, as it sometimes does, carried us in different directions. For about 34 years or so, our paths were separate, each of us living our own separate lives. Yet the bond that had begun so many years earlier had never truly disappeared.
In 2012, life brought us back together again. What followed was something both beautiful and rare — a second chance at love. From 2012 until March 6, 2026, Nickola and I were once again not only lovers, but working on becoming best friends again. Being together again felt like the continuation of a story that had paused but never ended. It felt as though we were finally getting the life together that we had once hoped for when we finished high school.
During those years we shared many moments and experiences. We spent time together, traveled to different places, and enjoyed each other’s company in the ways couples do when they truly cherish each other. Through those years we came to know each other deeply… our likes, our dislikes, our strengths, and our struggles. I came to understand much about Nickola’s health challenges, and learning those things allowed me to care for her in ways that made me feel closer and more comfortable with her.
One of the delightful surprises I discovered after we reunited was how much of a socialite Nicki had become. It often seemed that everywhere we went in Nassau, she knew someone. Her warmth and friendliness drew people to her naturally. She had a way of making connections and leaving a lasting impression on the people she met.
Nickola also became something even more meaningful in my life. As the years passed, she helped me face one of life’s most difficult realities… the thought that I might one day lose my parents or siblings before my own time comes. Her presence gave me comfort, strength, and reassurance during those thoughts. She became my anchor, my companion, and truly my first and real true love.
Sadly, life sometimes reminds us how fragile our time together can be. An unexpected illness took Nickola from this world far too soon. Her passing has left a space in my life that… I think… cannot be filled.
Today, without her, I often feel like a lost soul… drifting through the emptiness of grief and memories. But even in that darkness, the love we shared remains a guiding light. The years we had together, both in our youth and later in life, are treasures that will stay with me always.
Nickola was not only someone I loved… she was someone who shaped my life in ways that words can never fully express. She was my friend, my partner, my comfort, and my true love.
Though she is no longer here beside me, the memories of her laughter, her warmth, and the life we shared will remain in my heart for the rest of my days.
Nickola will never be forgotten. Her spirit, her kindness, and the love we shared will live on forever.
Love you Nicki...
Dale Minnis Hanna
TRIBUTE TO AUNTYNicki
When my mother passed away in 2013, my world changed in ways that left me feeling overwhelmed and unsure of everything. I questioned how I would move forward or find my footing again. Somehow, without hesitation, you stepped in and took the reins in so many aspects of my life. You became one of my guides, my support, my constant.
I remember how close we grew during my wedding planning. Those moments talking, laughing, and figuring everything out together are some of the most special memories I have. During that time, things could have felt overwhelming, but you brought love, warmth, and reassurance. You made everything feel possible.
You were a positive force to so many people, and that says everything about the kind of love you gave to this world. You did not just show up, you carried people. You held us together. You were our safe place.
And that is why your passing feels so deeply painful.
To relive this kind of pain again since 2013, with so many similarities to your illness, truly breaks my heart. It feels unfair in a way that is difficult to express. I keep asking, why? Why you? Why someone so kind, so selfless, so full of love? Why would such a beautiful person be taken so quickly?
You were the person I turned to for guidance in so many aspects of my life. I would call you and say, “Aunty Nicki, where do I go? Who do I call?” And without fail, you always had the answer. You always pointed me in the right direction. You made life feel a little less overwhelming just by being there.
A few days after you passed, I had that same instinct to call. I reached for my phone, ready to call you. And in that moment, it hit me all over again that I could not. That you, the person who always had the answers, were no longer on the other end of the line.
That kind of silence is, once again, a sad reality. After your diagnosis, you were still the strongest person in the room. You carried yourself with a strength that amazed me. You continued to hold everyone together, even when you were the one going through so much. That was who you were, a pillar of strength, love, and grace.
Aunty Nicki, my Patty, you were deeply loved, and you will continue to be deeply missed every single day. I love you more than words will ever be able to express. Until we meet again, I will keep following the path you helped me find.
With love, Adrienne
TO AUNTYNicki
“This my niece” or “Don’t put too much pepper in the food!” That was Aunty Nicki in her truest form: warm, witty, and wonderfully herself. She lived full of purpose, full of love, and full of a quiet strength that shaped all of us in ways we are only now beginning to understand. From our earliest days, she guided us with steady hands and a servant’s heart. Whether it was through sunflowers and brownies, or the lessons learned in Girl Guides, she planted seeds of kindness, discipline, and compassion that continue to bloom in our lives today. She molded young women! She didn’t just tell us how to live , she showed us. Day by day, with grace and patience. But her love did not stop at childhood. As we grew, so did her presence in our lives. Whether it’s planning birthdays, trips to other countries, weddings, baby showers and big decisions; she was there! In a world that can often feel heavy, she remained our refuge. A safe haven wrapped in warmth, peace, and gentle laughter. You could always count on her and find comfort with her, whether in a quiet conversation or simply sitting in her presence. There was something about her spirit, calm, steady, and full of light which made everything feel alright. Her smile was a gift. Bright, infectious, and impossible to ignore, it filled every room at every Gomez family gathering, every holiday, every celebration. It was the kind of smile that made you feel seen, welcomed, and loved without a single word being spoken. Aunty Nicki lived a meaningful life, one with no regrets. Though she was blessed with her daughter, Gabrielle, her heart was far too big to stop there. She became a mother to many. She nurtured, corrected, encouraged, and uplifted all who crossed her path from the youngest child to the oldest adult. Her legacy lives not just in her family, but in every life she touched.
The Bible reminds us in Matthew 6:19-21 not to store up treasures here on earth, where they fade and perish, but to build treasures in heaven. And if ever there was someone who truly understood that calling, it was Aunty Nicki. She lived a life of service, pouring herself into others, giving freely of her time,
her love, and her wisdom. Her treasures were never material. They were eternal, found in the lives she shaped and the hearts she healed. We are comforted in knowing that her purpose is completed and she is in the arms of the Lord. Today, we not only mourn, we honor. We honor a life well lived, a love well given, and a legacy that will never fade. Her voice, her laughter, her gentle corrections, and her endless care will echo in us forever.
Rest well, Aunty Nicki. Heaven, no doubt, is sweeter because you are there.
From Your nieces Rayne, Deja, and Yale and sister Natty.
A TRIBUTE TO Mother Dawkins
Some people come into your life quietly and simply remain a part of your story forever. That was you. A mother, a friend, a confidant, an advisor — and if we are being completely honest — a real comedian.
There was never a single conversation with you that didn’t end in laughter. You had a way of saying the funniest things at the perfect moment, sometimes without even trying. You could turn an ordinary chat into a comedy show, and somehow still sneak in a little wisdom while we were laughing.
Before you became all those things to me, you were my church member and my Guide leader. Our relationship started through church and Girl Guides, but it didn’t take long — just a few months — for both of us to realize that this connection was something special, something much deeper than meetings and uniforms. From that point on, we were there for each other through every step of life.
I had the joy of standing beside you as you proudly cheered Gabby through college and all the way through medical school. The pride you had for her was something beautiful to see. But just as loudly as you cheered for Gabby, you cheered for me too — through college and now as I run my business. You always believed in me and reminded me to keep pushing forward.
One of my favorite memories will always be our little church joke whenever there was a function. Without fail, you would
look over and say, “Look at Tammi directing.” And just as quickly I would reply, “I learnt from the best.” And the truth is, I really did. I learned from the best — not just about organizing church functions, but about leadership, kindness, strength, and how to laugh through life.
The knowledge and wisdom you passed down to me are immeasurable. Some lessons you gave through serious conversations, and others you delivered wrapped inside one of your jokes. Either way, they stuck.
You pushed me to be better, encouraged me when I doubted myself, and celebrated every victory as if it were your own. The impact you have made on my life is something I will treasure forever.
I imagine heaven just got a little louder with laughter. And if I know you, you’ve probably already started organizing something up there and telling everyone what to do — because after all, you taught me well.
Thank you for the love, the guidance, the laughter, and the friendship. Your legacy lives on in the many lives you touched. And don’t worry…Gabby is forever my little sister who I will look out for no matter the distance. Now whenever someone says, “Look at Tammi directing,” I’ll still smile and say, “I learnt from the best.”
A TRIBUTE TO MUM NICKI
If you knew Mum Nicki, you would know that life with her was never boring. There was always a story, a lesson, or a joke coming and sometimes she would even recreate the whole scene just to make the punchline even funnier. She had a special way of filling a room with laughter and making everyone around her feel at ease.
It is an honor to write these words about a truly special woman, my Mum Nicki. She was more than a mother figure to me; she was a mentor, a guide, and a constant source of love, wisdom, and laughter. She welcomed Tammi and I as if we were her own daughters, and whenever someone asked, she would proudly say, “Tammi and Krystal are me and Beth’s daughters.” Because of her love and the family she created around us, I also gained an additional sister and lifelong friend in Gabi.
Growing up with Mum Nicki meant adventures and trips all over. Every journey became an adventure, and every moment with her turned into memories filled with laughter, lessons, and stories that will stay with me for a lifetime.
On one of the many trips we shared together is where I learned one of my most vital lessons from Mum Nicki. No matter where we were, Gabi, Deja, and I were called back to the room at a certain time to read our Bibles. This often meant Mum Nicki calling different rooms to find us, or sometimes even coming to get us herself. Either way, she always made sure we read the Bible before we went to sleep. Even though we may have tried to duck it sometimes, she made sure it happened. Looking back now, I realize she wasn’t just teaching us discipline she was teaching us faith and grounding us in something that would guide us throughout our lives.
No matter what was going on in life, she was always just one phone call away, ready with advice, wisdom, comfort, or a story that would somehow make everything feel okay again.
By a beautiful coincidence, Mum Nicki and I shared the same birthday. One of my fondest memories is our little tradition of trying to see who would call who first just to sing “Happy Birthday.” It was such a simple thing, but it meant so much, and it always reminded me of the special bond we shared.
There are so many lessons from Mum Nicki’s life that I will carry with me forever her strength, her humor, her faith, and her guidance helped shape the woman I am today. Mum Nicki, thank you for the love, the laughter, the wisdom, and the countless memories. Your presence in my life was truly a blessing.
Rest peacefully, Mum Nicki.
And when my birthday comes each year, I know I will still hear your voice in my heart, calling first to sing “Happy Birthday.”
Love, Krystal
My Friend
My friend, my person, has departed this life to go where all of us want to go at the end of our lives. We had no inkling, none of us did, that she would be gone just like that-No preparation, no expectation that death was just around the corner.
My friend was one of the “Soldier Road girls.” We walked the Soldier Road strip in packs on any given Monday to get to Holy Cross for Guides and Rangers. On Saturdays, you would find all of us at the Shirley Street matinee just because..... The parties we had back then, oh boy....(we are still keeping the secrets) sweet memories that will live on forever.
We were pulled in by Father Roach to take over the Girl Guides/Rangers. He said to us, “It’s time for y’all to give back,” and that we did. It was a wonderful time that we shared with our girls who are now giving back.
Trips and camping took on another meaning for our girlsBoston, Atlanta, Disney World, Animal Kingdom. Yes, we traveled with them all over and had a great time doing it! These experiences were also shared with church chaperones, who were either parents, siblings, or friends.
We also interacted with the Parish Youth Council, another organization made up of youth leaders. We made so many awesome memories with all the other leaders and children in the Parish as we traveled to the Family Islands for youth retreats.
Nicki and l were the younger ones in the first Usher Ministry that was started at Holy Cross following our elders, and we were so happy to be asked by them to become members. We also started the junior ushers using our guides/scouts as well as our children, who were the first crop in that group. You would think it would stop there, yet again, we were asked to join a count team, and we took our stewardship in this capacity very seriously.
Being asked to join the Pilot Club of Nassau by our mentor (Pilot Rita) was very special, and we enjoyed moving up the ranks in the club with each other. But then Nicki got serious. “Beth,” she said, “l think l want to be Governor,” and that she did, and it went on and on until she reached the highest office. I was always so very proud of my friend, my person. I had her back, and she had mine.
Who am l going to call or have a call from three to four times a day just to shoot the breeze or express our delight or dislike with whatever situation we were dealing with!? (The calls just to say what we were about to eat that day. The calls to say who would drive who to whatever function we had to attend that week. The calls late into the night or early in the morning to proofread or critique a speech or fix a photo). My person is no longer here, and my heart aches with the knowledge that life will no longer be the same.
Our Heavenly Father has chosen to take her before the difficult road ahead descended on her - Before her pain would become so unbearable that it would be too hard for her to endure.
My friend has gone on to a much better place, and l will miss her so much. Rest in sweet peace, Nicki. We love you, but Jesus loves you best.
Love Beth
TO MY DEAREST FRIEND, Nicki
When we first met at BTC many years ago, I had no idea that we would become friends for life. From the very beginning, you welcomed me into your life and treated me like a sister. What started as a simple connection at work grew into a friendship that became one of the most meaningful blessings of my life.
Nicki, you were truly one of a kind. You were a planner, a visionary, and always the life of the party. You had a special way of bringing people together, organizing events, coordinating gatherings, and making sure that everything was just right. But more than that, you always made sure that everyone around you felt comfortable, included, and happy.
I smile when I think about the many planning committees we served on together. Even when I wasn’t particularly interested, you would always include me anyway, saying it would be a good experience. That was just who you
were, always pulling others along, seeking to create opportunities for people to grow and share moments together.
Your birthdays were legendary. Even when you said it would be something small, it always turned into something grand. You celebrated life with joy and intention. And every year, you would ask what I was doing for my birthday. I will never forget the time you bought a cake and we celebrated at your home. That was the kind of friend you were, thoughtful, generous, and always finding ways to make others feel special.
Nicki, you had one of the purest hearts. You were always helping someone, encouraging someone, or finding a way to make someone smile. You were loving, kind, and compassionate. And yet, when someone tried to test you, you had the most diplomatic way of putting them in their place with grace, intelligence, and dignity.
Your faith was also a central part of who you were. Your commitment to Holy Cross Anglican Church was unwavering. You served faithfully and made a meaningful impact on the lives of so many within your church family. Whether it was through your service, your encouragement, or simply your warm and welcoming spirit, people of every age were touched by your presence. Your dedication reflected the love, compassion, and servant’s heart that defined your life.
You were always a family person. Your family meant the world to you, especially your parents, siblings, and your beloved daughter, Gabbi, who was truly your rock.
You were a wonderful and devoted mother, and the love, wisdom, and guidance you poured into Gabbi is evident in the remarkable young woman she has become. You raised her with strength, dignity, and grace, and I know how incredibly proud you were of her. Gabbi, your mother’s love and strength will live on in you, and please know that I will always be here for you, just as your mother was always there for me.
Nicki, you were ambitious and fearless, always willing to explore new ventures and opportunities. I was so proud to stand with you in Denver as you celebrated your Pilot Club achievement. You paid attention to every detail because you wanted every moment to be meaningful and memorable for everyone involved.
We shared so many beautiful memories together. You walked with me through so many seasons of my life, offering wisdom, encouragement, and laughter. You were my cheerleader, my confidant, my sister, and a true friend. Your presence brought light into every room, and your friendship brought strength and joy into my life.
Words cannot fully express how grateful I am that God allowed our paths to cross. It was an honor and a blessing to call you my friend and my sister.
I will miss the laughter, the jokes, the stories, and your wonderful spirit. Thank you for your love, for sharing your family and friends with me, and for always being there for me.
You will always hold a special place in my heart.
I will always love you.
Carole Barnett
NICKOLA “NICKI” DAWKINS –GLOBAL OUTREACH AND IMPACT
In 2025, Ms. Nickola Dawkins was awarded the “Distinguished Leadership Award 2025” by the Caribbean Global Awards Committee, under the theme “Unity is Strength”, at a ceremony held on the 27th of September 2025 in London, England.
While serving as the President of Pilot International, Nicki had the desire to expand the Pilot brand throughout the Caribbean and the United Kingdom, with the establishment of new Pilot Clubs.
With the assistance of the Founder and President of the Caribbean Global Awards, Mrs. Michaelene Holder-March, Ms. Nicki Dawkins inspired and promoted the establishment of a Pilot Club in Accra Ghana, which is now, in fact, the sole Pilot Club on the African continent.
Ms. Nicki Dawkins, Former President of Pilot International, will also be remembered as a true International Leader, with such accomplishments exemplifying her global outreach and impact.
“We did it! We are now official! Pilot International Club of Accra Ghana has been inaugurated successfully. Took a long while but it’s here now and ready!”
High Commissioner, His Excellency Paul Andy Gomez
Remembering Nicki
Nicki was a forever servant and contributor to the community-at-large. In the end, she was taken from her earthly vessel due to a quick affliction. In this same spirit, we are going to collect funds in her name to donate to the Cancer Society.
Please forward all funds to Baker Tilly via check, cash, or bank transfer.
Nickola
|| Nickola
IN LOVING MEMORY O f
Nicki
MESSAGE OF Gratitude
We, the family extend our sincere thanks and appreciation to the many friends and family for each and every act of kindness shown to us during this most difficult time. Your prayers, visits, calls, messages and well wishes will always be remembered.
We Sincerely Thank Everyone of You
The
Family
Pallbearers
Vaughan Miller
Paul Gomez
Anthony Gomez
Ciaro Moxey
Leroy “Tre” Moncur III
Bentley Collie
Jamal Butler
Adam Burrows
Honorary Pallbearers
Dale Minnis
Craig “Tony” Gomez
Paul “Andy” Gomez
Porfirio “Rafi” Pache
Funeral services provided by:
Robinson Road and First Street
Telephone: 325-5268/393-1352/328-1944
P.O.Box N-603
Nassau, Bahamas
Cliff Moxey
Leroy Moncur II
Nathaniel Adderley
Patrick Rollins
Anthony Butler
Quinn McCartney
Tel: 394-BOOK (2665) Mobile: (242) 818-3478
SCAN HERE
