Three dozen pink roses, carefully tucked into the casket of the late Alecia Ballin, were the final loving tribute from the Soroptimist Club of Anguilla of which she was a leading member over the years.

Mrs. Ballin’s final journey

But the Soroptimist Club was only a small part of the milling throng of people, from all walks of life, who crowded inside, sat or stood outside the Bethel Methodist Church on Saturday, July 8, to bid farewell to the well-admired and celebrated Mrs. Ballin.

A number of individuals and group representatives also paid tribute to her in words and song.

Crowded tent in church yard

The officiating Clergy were Reverends Lindsay Richardson, Superintendent Minister, whose sermon took the form of a prayer as he reflected on the life and work of Mrs. Ballin; Reverend S. W. Hodge and Reverend Cecil Weekes.

Mrs. Ballin was laid to rest at the Sandy Ground Cemetery, where her husband, Murray, was interred some years ago.

Following is a message of thanks from her family:

I am extremely appreciative of the warm wishes, cards, flowers, prayers and genuine love expressed on behalf of my dear mother, Alecia Ballin.

After my Mom’s final return to Anguilla, in the weeks preceding her passing, she was uplifted by the phone calls, well wishes and numerous acts of kindness from so many.

Even during this most difficult time, her thoughts and concerns were directed toward Anguilla. My mom’s wishes were for Anguillians to take care of Anguilla by preserving our history, cherishing our customs and protecting the land.

Mingling crowd following the Thanksgiving Service

She remembered a day when we helped one another and wished good will for our neighbor, and hoped we could bring back this tradition. She wanted us to guide, advise and inspire the youth to stay out of trouble, complete school and succeed because she recognized that they are responsible for our future.

It is now our challenge to continue on the path my mother envisioned. We must give to the youth the tools to excel in the world so that they may continue to serve Anguilla.

Her love of Anguilla and its people is an inspiration to all.

Alex Ballin, her daughter.

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