Over 300 mourners and well wishers were in attendance at a service of thanksgiving for the life of late World War Two veteran Herbert Mackay Sweeney who died at 96 years of age.
The service was held at the Anglican Church in St. Ann’s Bay, on Wednesday April 13, 2016.
Mr. Sweeney, who died in Hospital on March 19, 2016, following a stroke, was fondly remembered for his leadership and service to his country. In October 2013, the Nation presented him with the Badge of Honour for long and faithful service to Jamaica Legion and his community.
He was enlisted as a member of the Royal Air Force, which allowed him the opportunity to serve England in World War II.
On his return to Jamaica in 1946, Mr Sweeney returned to his trade as a tin smith and his duties as a loyal member of the Anglican Church in Farm Pen, Westmoreland, where he was born.
After spending over 30 years in Westmoreland, Mr. Sweeney moved to St. Ann’s Bay with his late wife Edna Bernard where they got married. The union produced three sons George, Ladrick, and Dave. He had another son Bertram from an earlier relationship as did Ms Bernard.
As a dedicated community worker he was a member of several organizations including the Anglican Brotherhood, The Jamaica Burial Scheme Society, and the Jamaica Legion Society, serving in various capacities.
He was president of the Jamaica Burial Scheme Society, St. Ann’s Bay branch from 1962-2000 and chairman of the Jamaica Legion branch in St. Ann for decades, which saw the movement hosting annual New Year dinners and Christmas trips to Curphey Home in Manchester to pray and mingle with ex-soldiers, who are housed there.
Mr Sweeney was always involved in distribution of Poppies each year and represented the Legion at the annual May Day Parade.
The eulogy, which was read by Mr Sweeney s nephew, Michael Nicholson, also highlighted his special love for his children and grand children as well as his jovial attitude.
National representative of Jamaica Legion Sgt. Peter Xavier Williams also paid tribute to Mr Sweeney.
He leaves to mourn four children, one step child, 12 grandchildren 25 great great grandchildren, three sisters and a brother.
Following the service, which was conducted by host Pastor Rev. Monique Campbell, members of the Jamaica Defence Force took custody of Mr Sweeney s Body and transferred it to a Funeral Home in Kingston.
Another Thanksgiving Service will be held at the Garrison Church, Up Park Camp following which burial will take place in the Garrison Cemetery.
