In pictures: A final farewell to Obediah Wilchcombe

The solemnity of mourning overwhelmed the Christ Church Cathedral on Thursday morning as Cabinet Minister Obediah Wilchcombe was laid to rest following his unexpected death as Minister of Social Services, Urban Development, Information and Broadcasting nearly two weeks ago.

As the coffin was transported to the church, a traditional procession of saddened parliamentarians and family members, marched behind the coffin, drawing scores of onlookers in a vast expression of grief and gratitude as they bade farewell to a man whose life as a public servant helped define journalism and politics in the country.

Prime Minister Philip Davis remembered the beginning of their friendship when Wilchcombe served as a rookie court reporter and Davis, a lawyer.

During his speech, he said Wilchcombe, who once served as Tourism Minister in Perry Christie’s administration, was “surprised” when he was given the portfolio for Social Services in 2021 when the Davis administration won the election. Since the governing party’s ministerial swap last month, Davis remembered Wilchcombe was “full of enthusiasm” when Broadcasting and Information were added to his portfolio.

Opposition Leader Michael Pintard remembered his smile and style, and praised him for easing the tension in the House of Assembly during fierce debates.

During a career that began in 1994, Wilchcombe served as a senator before serving in his ministerial posts.

It appeared he suffered health challenges over the years. He was 64.

Photo credit: The Free National Movement, Oracle Media Consultants