‘Mum was a strong lady’ - Delores Elizabeth France remembered for her Christian impact

Family members, friends and well-wishers gathered at the Norwood Seventh-day Adventist Church in St James last Sunday to bid farewell to Delores Elizabeth France, a beloved matriarch remembered for her steadfast Christian example and maternal influence.

Under the guidance of guest pastor Wilton Bygrave, the service carried moments of solemnity as tearful remembrances were shared about France, affectionately known as 'Mum.' She had passed away on June 11, at the age of 93, following a period of illness.

However, amid the sombre moments, there were also instances of joyful music and celebration. Those paying tribute to France lifted spirits with uplifting songs, fondly recalling her wit, and the warm and welcoming atmosphere she always created.

"Mum was a strong lady as she never had any reason to go to the hospital until one month before her death," son-in-law Errington Edwards said while delivering the eulogy.

"She lived to be almost 94, and truly we could not ask for more. We look for the day we will meet again, when immortal life we will all attain."

Colin Dixon, one of France's grandchildren, gave a moving testimony of how his grandmother influenced him to become a Christian during a period when she was visiting him in the United States.

"To my core, I believe she was sent for me because I was a soul that she saw was going down the wrong path. God sent her to the United States to rescue me, and the person I am today is because of my grandmother," said Dixon.

Born in Cinnamon Hill in St James on November 13, 1929, she was the youngest of seven children for parents Samuel Parry and Pertine Ricketts. France grew up under difficult circumstances following the deaths of her parents early in her childhood. She later went to live in Salt Spring in the parish. She was also trained in dressmaking.

She met and married her first husband, Elias Woolery, while working at the Rose Hall Sugar Plantation. The union, which produced eight children, ended in divorce. France later married Charles France, in 1966, and together they had three children. Charles had two children from his previous union.

The Frances were later baptised as members of the Paradise Seventh-day Adventist Church (now Norwood Seventh-day Adventist Church), and in the years thereafter 'Mum' served as a deaconess, Sabbath School teacher, and choir leader. She also led various outreach activities which benefited the less fortunate in the community. In her latter years, France relocated to Content where she lived with her daughter, Doreen.

In his keynote sermon, Bygrave encouraged the mourning relatives and friends to cherish the Christian legacy that the late matriarch left behind for them.

"You have every reason to be proud as descendants and church members, as she has left a legacy about the knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ that has been passed on to her children. The same Jesus who provided for your mother and grandmother in times of need will provide for you," said Bygrave.

France's remains were buried at Dovecot Memorial Park in Orange, St James.