The Original Memory Book for the late Philip Leroy Clarke
HOMEGOING SERVICE FOR THE LIFE OF THE LATE
PHILIP LEROY CLARKE
Semi Military Funeral Service
SUNRISE: January 5, 1959
SUNSET: June 14, 2025
AGE: 66 Years
SERVICE HELD AT: THE CHURCH OF GOD OF PROPHECY EAST STREET TABERNACLE East Street, Nassau, N.P. Bahamas.
Friday July 4th, 2025 at 10am
OFFICIATING:
Bishop Timothy F. Johnson
Lead Pastor, Church of God of Prophecy Soldier Road Northeast
ASSISTED BY:
Bishop Dwight Ferguson
Pastor Patrick Musgrove
Reverend Pascal Saunders
Canon Stephen Davies
Other Ministers
INTERMENT: Lakeview Memorial Gardens
Gladstone Road, Nassau, Bahamas.
A CELEBRATION OF LIFE FOR PHILIP LEROY CLARKE
“The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, and He delighteth in his way.” – Psalm 37:23
A BLESSED BEGINNING
As the cool midwinter breeze blew on the 5th of January in 1959, on the beautiful island of New Providence, a handsome baby boy was born to Francella Roberts and the late Leviticus Clarke, formerly of Exuma. They named him Philip Leroy. He was the third child of seven children. He was predeceased by his brother, Percy.
He deeply enjoyed marching and proudly representing his country.
Philip later transferred out of the band and into active police duty on January 30th, 1975, at the age of 18, as a Recruit Constable and was assigned police number 131. After completing his training, and years of unwavering dedication he was promoted to Corporal on March 1st, 1990 with the support of then Commissioner of Police, Mr. Bernard Bonaby. Subsequently, he began performing different duties in various police divisions shortly thereafter. This ultimately led to him being promoted to Sergeant on July 1st, 1995.
LEARNING AND GROWTH
Philip, affectionately known by nicknames like “Phil” and “Jack Hart”, attended Stephen Dillet Primary, Yellow Elder Primary, A.F. Adderley Junior High, and C.C. Sweeting High School, graduating in 1974. He was known as a quick learner.
A LEGACY OF SERVICE
At the age of 16, Philip joined the Royal Bahamas Police Force Band, where he played the saxophone. Phil traveled with the band throughout the Islands of The Bahamas, the United States, and the United Kingdom.
Over the years, Phil additionally served in numerous leadership roles across the country: he was officer-in-charge in Mangrove Cay, Andros; served at both Quakoo Street, East Street South, and Carmichael Police Stations; was second-in-command in Harbour Island; and worked in the Traffic and Mobile Divisions. He later became officer-incharge in San Salvador before retiring on December 14th, 2010, from the Complaints and Corruption Unit, holding the esteemed rank of Police Sergeant.
After completing 35 distinguished years as a career officer serving his country with pride and commitment, Philip rejoined the organization as a member of the Police Reserve on June 8th, 2011, under the designation Sergeant 644. He served faithfully in the Airport Division, Police Band, and Cable Beach Division. In recognition of his continued commitment and outstanding performance, he was promoted to the rank of Inspector on September 1st, 2021.
He also received the prestigious Pinnacle Award on December 14th, 2010, honoring his exemplary service
From 2010 to 2014, Philip worked at the Prescription Parlor Pharmacy. In 2014, he joined the Judiciary as a Court Marshal and later became a Bailiff. Most recently, he was promoted to Chief Bailiff; a position he held with great
pride; leading a remarkable team including Harvey, Willie, Russell, Butler, Mackey, Carey, Smith, and Brown.
One of his most cherished memories was leading the parade for the opening of the 2025 Legal Year, where he carried the mace with honor.
Phil was well respected and deeply loved. These sentiments were echoed by the many individuals whose lives he touched in meaningful and positive ways. Throughout his years of full-time and reserve service, Inspector Clarke exemplified professionalism, humility, and a steadfast sense of duty. His legacy is one of perseverance, selflessness, and a profound love for his country and community.
A LOVE STORY UNFOLDS
It was in 1996, after being transferred to Harbour Island, that Philip met his “young thing”, the love of his life during an introduction to the local business community. After a long and loving courtship, he married his beloved on her birthday, February 7, 2009. Together, they were blessed to parent four boys: Kristin, Kriston, Leviticus, and Kenton. Philip adored his wife, Ellaka, and their bond was unbreakable; they were rarely seen apart, except when work called. Their love for each other was steadfast, fulfilling their vows until the very end.
A TRUE FAMILY MAN
Philip’s family was his pride and joy. He visited his mother, whom he affectionately called “Mamie”, daily, always eager to share a sweet treat and a warm conversation. As a father, he was immensely proud of his children’s accomplishments and looked forward to the day Kriston would become his personal doctor. He was their biggest fan and unwavering supporter. As a grandfather, he took great delight in his grandchildren, whether it was celebrating Denali becoming head boy, enjoying FaceTime calls with Molly and Logan, or sharing ice cream and cartoons with Shai. To his siblings, he was a trusted advisor and confidant, always ready with wise counsel. His nieces and nephews also held a special place in his heart, and he was especially proud of Rolando, who shared his birthday and followed in his footsteps by becoming a police officer.
A JOURNEY OF FAITH
Philip was baptized in the Baptist faith as a child, attending Sunday school at Salem Union Baptist Church, where he learned the scriptures and eventually accepted the lord as his personal Savior. His favorite bible verses came from Philippians 4:13, and Colossians where he found strength and comfort in daily prayer. He loved the old hymns of Zion, often singing “How Great Thou Art.” Philip didn’t just send his family to church; he brought them with him, actively participating in worship at the Church of God of Prophecy, My Blue Hill Road and Solider Road. He had plans to join the musician team upon his retirement, and his son Kriston had even gifted him a soprano saxophone for that purpose. Though his plans were set, Isaiah 55:8 reminds us that our plans are not God’s plan… as life follows a divine plan.
EMBRACING COMMUNITY AND CAMARADERIE
Philip had a vibrant social life and was actively involved in various community groups. He was a proud member
of the Boys’ Brigade, the Royal Ambassadors Band, The Elks Lodge, The Masons; and the Music Makers Junkanoo group where he was among the first to bring brass instruments to Bay Street along with Ronald, Sammy, Virgil, David and Henry. His love for music and community shone brightly through these joyful gatherings and events.
STRENGTH IN ADVERSITY
In the later years of his life, Philip faced health challenges with grace and courage. On February 27, 2025 Phil fell ill resulting in him being hospitalized for a week at Doctors Hospital, nonetheless he continued to navigate his health journey with the support of his loving family. Even in the face of adversity, his spirit remained strong, and he continued to be a source of inspiration to those around him.
On the 5 May 2025 after experiencing heart issues, his wife took him to the Lyford Cay hospital where the doctor administered cardioversion. Despite his steps becoming slower, his wife thought -it was- a part of the healing process.
A HEAVENLY JOURNEY
On the evening of June 14, 2025, Philip peacefully passed away while taking his sons, Leviticus and Kenton to church in preparation for Father’s Day. He gently lowered his head, closed his eyes, and embarked on his journey to meet his Maker. It was a serene and graceful transition, reflecting a life well-lived and a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew him.
Philip is survived by:
His Wife: Ellaka Barry Clarke; Children: Shantell (Keno), Philip Jr. (Ce’Aira), Kriston, Leviticus, Kenton,
Mother: Francella Roberts; Step Mother: Mary Ann Clarke; Mother in Law: Deidre Barry; Father in Law: Leslie Saunders; Siblings: Erma, Kendal, Antonio, Perry, Kathie, Samantha(Darron); Brother in Law: Troy(Annette); Adopted Brother: Davie Rolle(Stephanie);
Numerous Nieces and Nephews Including: Tanya, Tristan, Maranda, Olivia, Celeste, Yolanda, Lavardo, Deallo, Laquanya, Antonya, Anya, Ian, Antonio Jr., Perry Jr., Rolando, Rocco, Summiyah, Dillon, Makayden, Jayden, Taydm, Tamron, Takao, Takumi; Aunts: Maxine, Paulette, Sherryann, Doreen; Uncles: Vincient Storr, Garvin and Apostle Winston(Iva) Roberts; Aunts and Uncles in Law: Vana Roach, Rochelle & Anthony Bethel, Florence & Herks Hart, Charles & Queenie Barry, Georgina Barry, Romell Rolle, Windslow Barry, Eloise Knowles, Shelia Peters, Delsina, Ena, Lisa, Charmaine, Coleen, Ryan, Philip and Oneil Saunders; Numerous Cousins: Especially Hezron, Judy, Caron, Myeisha, Virgil, Diana, Fredricka, Carlton, Warren, David, Kenneth and Cheryl Smith, Bethsheba, Kashala, Ralphie, Arnette, Yvonne, Tanika, Shernique, Raque, Ellie and Alexander Sherman, Dorlan & Kaylisa Curtis, Dr. Leonardo & Ramona Culmer, Bishop Timothy & Deanna Johnson, Darrel & Marie Johnson, Jamal, Quincy, Caleb; Other Relatives and Friends: Bishop Ronald & Doret Campbell, Darlene Mckenzie, Dr. Charles Diggis, Brenda & Winston Moss, Kevin & Ingrid Curry, Susan & Walter Palmer, Sharon & Wayde Hanna, Bishop Rudolph & Vernie Bowe, Percival Johnson, Lional Johnson, Francis Butterfield, King Johnson, James Hutchinson, Selvin Adderley, Teddy, Stephen
Seymour, Deon Roach, Stephanie and Selena Lockhart, Lorrie Whitfield, Erica, Danya Williams, Christina Forbes, Ethel Brown, Kimbo Woods, Lennie Woods, Charlotte Ahawa, Pascal Saunders, Rasheda Deveaux, Tyrisha Smith, Prince Oliver, Fredrick Calander, Yvonne Albury, Audley Dean, Lakeisha & Delano Mackey, Philip Duncombe, Samuel Bain, Camille Basden, Shania Forbes, Cedric Williamson, Donna Williams, Vincent Churchill Rolle, The Royal Bahamas Police Force (especially the band), “The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge” Free and Accepted Masons, Prescription Parlor Pharmacy, The Judiciaryn (especially the staff in The Bailiff Department), Mr. Wilkinson, My Blue Hill Road and Solider Road Church of God of Prophecy, Salem Union Baptist Church, Crooked Island Street Community, C.I Gibson Class of 92, The Communities of Mangrove Cay Andros, Harbour Island and San Salvador.
ORDER OF SERVICE
PROCESSION OF MINISTERS, COLOR PARTY & CASKET | Ministers & Police Officers
OPENING SENTENCES/CALL TO WORSHIP | Reverend Pascal Saunders
PROTOCOL | Canon Stephen Davies
OPENING HYMN | “Heavens Jubilee”
Some glad morning, we shall see Jesus in the air Coming after you and me, joy is ours to share What rejoicing, that will be, when the saints shall raise Headed for that jubilee, yonder in the skies.
(Chorus)
Oh what singing, Oh what shouting On that happy morning, when we all shall rise Oh what glory, hallelujah?
When we meet our blessed Saviour in the skies.
Seems that now I almost see all the sainted dead Raising for that jubilee, that is just ahead In the twinkling of an eye, changed with them to be All the living saints to fly to that jubilee
When with all the heavenly host, we’ll begin to sing, Singing in the Holy Ghost how the heav’ns ring Millions there will join the song, with them we shall be Praising Christ thru ages long, Heaven’s jubilee.
TRIBUTE/AS I KNEW HIM | Mr. Toote & Mr. Harvey, Bishop Roland Campbell, Kriston Clarke
HYMN | “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.
(Chorus)
It is well, it is well, With my soul, 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 has 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 the cross, and I bear it no more, praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!
And, Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight, the clouds be rolled back as a scroll; the trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend Even so, it is well with my soul
SCRIPTURE READING | (Psalms 27) | Leviticus Clarke- Son
MUSICAL SELECTION | RBPF Choir/Band
REMARKS | Representative of The Commissioner of Police
PRAISE & WORSHIP | COGOP Worship Team
SERMON | Bishop Timothy Johnson
PRAYER FOR THE FAMILY | Dr. Leonardo Culmer
RECESSIONAL HYMN | “And Can It Be”
And can it be that I should gain An interest in the Savior’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?
’Tis mystery all: thee Immortal dies: Who can explore His strange design? In vain the firstborn seraph tries To sound the depths of love divine. ’Tis mercy all! Let earth adore, Let angel minds inquire no more.
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!
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 feel off, my heart was free, I rose, went forth, and followed Thee.
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 thee eternal throne, And claim the crown, through Christ my own.
Graveside Service
PROCESSION OF MINISTERS, COLOR PARTY & CASKET,
MILITARY SALUTE | RBPF
OPENING REMARKS & PRAYER | Pastor Patrick Musgrove
COMMITTAL & WORDS OF COMFORT | Bishop Timothy Johnson
HYMN | “That Glad Reunion Day”
There will be a happy meeting in heaven I know When we see the many loved ones we’ve known here below. Gather on the blessed hilltops with hearts all aglow. That will be a glad reunion day.
(Chorus)
Glad day, a wonderful day, Glad day, a glorious day; There with all the holy angels and loved ones to stay, That will be a glad reunion day.
There within the holy city we’ll sing and rejoice, Praising Christ the blessed Saviour with heart and with voice. Tell him how we came to love Him and make Him our choice. That will be a glad reunion day.
When we live a million years in that wonderful place Basking in the love of Jesus, beholding His face. It will seem but just a moment of praising His grace. That will be glad reunion day.
ACKNOWLEDGMEN | Funeral Home
ACKNOWLEDGMENT | Lakeview Cemetery
FINAL PRAYER / BENEDICTION | Bishop Timothy Johnson
CLOSING HYMN | “It’s Alright Now”
There was a time I travelled a lonely sinful road; Beneath a heavy burden bending low; But now all things are different, since Jesus took my load It’s alright now, I’m His I know.
(Chorus)
It’s alright now, for I am in my Saviour’s care It’s alright now; my Saviour hears and answers prayer He’ll walk with me, (He’ll walk beside me) Till I climb the heavenly stair, And everything (And everything is alright now)
And down a lonely pathway, without a friend to guide, I walked in sin and sorrow all alone ‘Till Jesus came and found me, and drew me to His side; It’s alright now, for I’m His own.
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.
To My Lee,
In the midst of this hurt that I can’t explain, I find myself reminiscing on that smile that first drew me to you. Lee, I miss you so much. Our home is not the same. Our rides are not the same. With tears as I write this, I am hurting, Lee. I feel so lost without you—my friend. I am trying to be strong, but it’s so hard. Nonetheless, I’m trusting in God—only He can bring me through this pain.
As I reflect on the memories that I will forever cherish, I think of our first date, where we sat on the beautiful pink sands beach and ate fish and chips, talking and laughing as if we had known each other forever. As time went on, we got to know each other more—the little things you did made me love you even more. I have no regrets about loving you.
You were my best friend, my husband, my travel partner, my ride, my prayer warrior, my songbird, my chef, my advisor, my doctor, my handyman, my confidant—and an excellent father to our children: Kristin, Kriston, Leviticus, and Kenton. You were my everything here on earth. You gave me all that you could—even your chicken bone (lol), though you would fuss about it.
I am so proud to have had you as my lifelong partner walking beside me. You made me happy. We had our challenges, but we got through them. We argued, but we never went to bed mad. We didn’t always agree, but we respected each other’s opinions. You would always say, “Boo, you can’t be wrong and strong.”
You were looking forward to retirement and had so many plans. You didn’t get to serenade me with your new saxophone—but I will make sure one of the boys learns to play it.
Farewell, my good husband. Thank you for loving me. Thank you for our wonderful, smart, intelligent boys who have promised to take care of me.
Until then, Lee.
Until then, Phil.
Until then, Boo.
Until then, Francella’s good son. I will continue to pray for strength to carry on.
Love Always and Forever, Your Madam, Your Mistress, Your Young Thing, Your Ellaka.
MASTER CLARKE,
“1 in 292,201,338”; that’s the odds of me winning the grand prize in the lottery. A fact I would’ve thought more realistic than this day coming so soon. It’s unfathomable to think that May 21st, 2025 would be etched in history as one of the greatest days of my life; the day we walked across the stage and received a degree from the #1 School of Public Health in the world, together. Yet, less than a month later would bring the worst day of my life. Master Clarke, I am heartbroken… I lost my best friend, and I don’t know how I’m going to go on because I feel like I have no more to give. But that’s fine, right? Because you taught me, through the words of that remarkable song we both cherished, that “in search of that quest to the impossible dream, one must try when their arms are too weary… no matter how hopeless, no matter how far… to be willing to give when there’s no more to give.”
So I will be strong for the family down here on earth. And I will ensure that the world remembers your name. Thank you for being my dad. I am eternally grateful for the time we shared. I trust that you’re up there serenading the heavens with your saxophone alongside Grover Washington Jr. and all the other greats. Maybe even cruising around on the Harley-Davidson we always talked about. I miss you. I love you. And I can’t wait to see you again… and be there with you.
Rest in Paradise, Master
Kriston Clarke
Daddy,
To the world, he was just one man, but to me, he was my entire world. My daddy was my protector, my provider, and my personal cheerleader. He always pushed me to do my best, not out of pressure, but out of love because in his eyes, I always had more room to grow and more potential to reach. His wisdom didn’t just guide me; it shaped the very core of who I am today. He had a quiet strength and a heart full of love. No matter how tough life got, he made sure I felt safe, supported, and deeply loved. He was the kind of man who led by example, whose actions spoke louder than any words, and whose presence alone could calm a storm in my heart. He was never afraid to speak his mind or as he said it “he’d call a spade a spade” daddy I LOVE YOU. you might be gone but you’ll never be forgotten.
Dear Daddy,
What can I say, except that I miss you! God saw you getting tired, When a cure was not to be. So, he wrapped his arms around you, and whispered, “Come to me”. You didn’t deserve what you went through, So, He gave you just what you needed, rest. God’s garden must be beautiful, He only takes the best And when I saw you sleeping, So peaceful and free, I could not wish you back To suffer that again.
Sleep on Daddy! I love you. Your Loving Daughter , Sabia
Daddy,
Death may have taken you from this world, but it cannot break the bond we shared. You will always be my dad, my mentor, my friend. Thank you for always showing up and the unconditional love you showed me. Although you are no longer with us your legacy and wisdom will forever live on through my life! And I, Kenton Philip Clarke, will make sure and keep your memories alive. Thank you, Daddy, for being my number one fan.
Your baby
DADDY,
Your smile
I still see everyday
Not just in my mind,
But upon my own face.
Your hands of care, I inherited too
Your heart of gold
Your temperament, your wit
Your ways humble and true
Your stubborn moles, I’ve quite a few
Your sleek, yet quick strides
Your way with words
Your sense of humor
Your integrity
Your nurturing ways for your children
Your sense of pride
Your presence is missed
Your love has not died
In my heart is where you will always reside
With Love always, Sham PAPA,
Papa took me to school and picked me up.
Papa took me for nuggets and ice cream.
Papa played hide n seek with me.
Papa is dead, and I am sad.
Papa is now in heaven watching over me, grammy, Uncle Vitty, and Uncle Denton.
I love you my Papa.
My Brother Philip was not just family, he was one that you could talk to when you needed a listening ear. Not only was he an uncle, brother, father, husband or son - he was a role model. I’ll always cherish the memories we shared filled with laughter and mischief. He was genuine with a contagious laugh and a kind heart. His presence always made everything bright. He was a constant source of support. I will miss his advice, his humour and his unwavering love! Though he has gone, his spirit of love will live on in my heart. The family time we shared will always be remembered. I will always love you my brother. Sleep on Phil, take your rest until we meet again.
Your Sister, Kay
A TRIBUTE TO MY BELOVED BROTHER PHILIP
My heart is so heavy as I mourn you’re passing, losing you Phil was a shock, knowing that I have just spoken with you, and you were on your way to my house. I’m still in shock till now. I’m still hoping you will call my name in your commanding voice Erma.
As we celebrate your life, you were not just a brother, but a friend, a confidant and a source of unwavering strength which I saw on numerous occasion as we get-together with family and on our trip to Baltimore. You may have left but your presence remains in my heart and many memories we shared. You were an amazing person, full of life and vitality. I’ll keep your memories closer to my heart so I can move on.
In your absence, I find solace in the memories we shared and the love that will forever bind us together. Though the pain of your departure is profound, I bid farewell to you, my beloved brother Philip. I am filled with both sorrow and gratitude. Sorrow for the void your absence leaves in my life, but gratitude for the joy and laughter we shared. Until we reunite in the realm beyond, know that you will be dearly missed (Phil).
I take comfort in knowing that you are now at peace. Goodbye, dear brother, may your soul find eternal rest.
Erma (sister)
A TRIBUTE TO HONOR THE LIFE AND MEMORY OFF MY BROTHER PHILIP
Today, with a heavy heart but grateful soul, we lay to rest my dear brother, Philip. A quiet spirit, a gentle giant, and a soul carved from kindness and calm.
Philip wasn’t the loudest in the room, but his presence spoke volume. He had a way of bringing peace without saying a word. He was soft-spoken but strong, gentle but grounded, humble but honorable. A man of few words and deep thoughts, Philip’s strength came not from shouting, but from showing up, being present, and loving in his own quiet, steady way.
I remember him most vividly as a child, always with an appetite! If Philip was hungry, you didn’t need a clock or calendar. You could just watch his hands go to his head as he picked his hair, a signal as sure as the sunrise. It was his unique “hungry-o-meter,” and we all knew what it meant: “It’s time to feed Philip!”
He was affectionate, reliable, down-to-earth, patient, and filled with a quiet humor that would sneak up on you like a soft breeze. He was trustworthy, respectful, and devoted. The kind of man you could count on without question. In his simplicity, there was depth. In his silence, there was wisdom. And in his presence, there was comfort.
Philip, now that you’ve gone on home to glory, the world feels a little quieter and a lot emptier. I will miss your calm energy, your silent strength, your laugh, and yes, your “hungry hairpicking habits.”
But I take peace in knowing that you’re now in the arms of the Lord, where there’s no more hunger, no more pain, only heavenly peace and everlasting joy.
Rest well, my brother.
Your memory is sealed in my heart, and your spirit will forever walk beside me.
Love Always, Your Oldest Brother, Vivian-Kendal
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.
