funeral

The world said a final goodbye to Queen Elizabeth II on Monday, marking the end of her 70 year reign.

As millions watched on television, thousands more traveled to London and Windsor for the state funeral and burial to honor the Queen in an hours-long service.

Flowers adorning the coffin were picked from Buckingham Palace. On the wreath, her eldest son King Charles III penned a note to his deceased mother, “In loving and devoted memory. Charles R.”

Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, who delivered the eulogy said grief for the late queen was felt around the world. “She was joyful, present to so many, touching a multitude of lives.

“People of loving service are rare in any walk of life. Leaders of loving service are still rarer.”

Her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren who at times became emotional, followed the coffin as it was carried in a procession through London. Mourners lined the route, many seen weeping openly.

The Queen will be laid to rest at the King George VI Memorial Chapel alongside her husband Prince Charles who died last year.

She died on September 8 at the age of 96.

Photo credit: Sky News, The Guardian

Former Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham emerged from obscurity to pay respects to Former Cabinet Minister Darrell Rolle, who died at the age of 77.  Prime Minister Ingraham criticized the government for not permitting the funeral at a church. He called it “very wrong” and “inconsiderate.”

Why it matters

• Hon Darrell Rolle is a former Cabinet Minister, serving in the Pindling administration. His last appointment was Minister of National Security, a position he held from 1990 until August 1992, when the PLP was voted out of office.
• Traditionally, official funerals are held at churches.

The big picture

The Emergency Order outlines the limitations of funerals in the country as health officials combat the spread of the virus. The competent authority has restricted funeral services to graveside only, with ten individuals in attendance, excluding the officiant.

What Former Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham said

He said, “I am very disappointed because the government did not allow Darrell Rolle’s funeral to be held in a church. He gave distinguished service to the Bahamas over many years.”

Ingraham said he did not want to involve himself in any controversy over the emergency order.

Government funeral status for former cabinet ministers

• Hon Darrell Rolle falls under the second tier of official funerals given to former Cabinet ministers and serving members of Parliament.
• The government covers funeral costs up to a maximum of $10,000 and the police and defence force provide an honour guard.
• Lying-in-state takes place in the House of Assembly. The church service is carried live on radio and may be recorded for future airing.
• The church service is attended by the governor-general, the prime minister, Cabinet ministers, other parliamentarians and senior public officers.