‘Auntie Sharon’ gets cheerful send-off

The Emmanuel Chapel in Mt Salem, Montego Bay, was filled with music and fond memories as relatives and friends turned out on Sunday, August 12, to say their final goodbyes to Sharon Walker-Frater, who was praised as a loving mother and faithful friend.

From the outset, songs such as Born, Born, Born Again, Jesus' Name So Sweet, and Every Praise is to Our God paved the way for the easing of sadness in favour of joyful memories.

Walker-Frater, affectionately known to her loved ones as Auntie Sharon, was born on August 28, 1957, to parents Frank and Zoila Walker. She later raised three sons and also served as a mother figure to other relatives and friends.

The 60-year-old was an active member of the Emmanuel Chapel and a faithful supporter of the Western Sports Association and the People's National Party until she eventually succumbed to illness on July 6.

Cousin Norma Jackson, who gave the eulogy, remembered Walker-Frater as a loyal and helpful friend who was sometimes quite emotional.

"No matter what, Sharon was always there for you. She would walk the whole place to find crayfish, shellfish, ackee, or whatever you asked for," said Jackson. "She would cry at the drop of a hat, no matter the situation, whether joy or sorrow. Now that she is gone, we're really missing a link in our lives."

Daughter-in-law Nagra Plunkett described Walker-Frater as being loyal to her family.

"Auntie Sharon carried a strong warrior spirit and an unbreakable bond of family. Auntie Sharon, we love you, and we're thankful we were ordained to be part of your journey," said Plunkett.