Weeville Gordon dies at 85
Published:Monday | November 22, 2010 | 12:00 AM
Nadisha Hunter, Gleaner Writer
Family and friends of the late Reverend Canon Weeville Gordon, who served for nearly two decades as custos for Kingston, are struggling to cope with his passing on Saturday night.
Gordon, 85, had been hospitalised for some time with an undisclosed illness.
The former custos, who was replaced by Steadman Fuller earlier this year, made the transition at his home about 9:45 p.m.
His daughter, Angella Gordon-Steer, told The Gleaner that he would be missed for the kindness and love he showed to persons around him.
"He was warm, caring and supportive, which wasn't limited to family but to everyone in all walks of life," Gordon-Steer said.
"I miss his laughter; he was always telling jokes and he loved when persons were happy."
Prime Minister Bruce Golding also expressed regret at Gordon's death, noting his long and distinguished career of service to Kingston.
"Our former custos served with distinction and was respected for his dedication to community. He was especially beloved in Allman Town, where he served as a pastor for several decades, but he also became a familiar leader throughout all of Jamaica," Golding said.
"When called upon, he acted as deputy governor general for two governors general under whom he served. We are happy that he was able to enjoy his brief retirement after half a century of public service to this country. I will miss him for his calm spirit and dignified strength," he added.
He served as the custos of Kingston for 18 years - from 1991 until his retirement from the post last year. In 2003, he retired as pastor of St Matthew's in the inner-city community of Allman Town - where a street was also renamed in his honour five years ago in 2005 - after serving there for 40 years.
Gordon was recognised by Governor General Sir Patrick Allen last year for 49 years of service as a justice of the peace. He also served on several committees, including the Commission for the Prevention of Corruption within the Ministry of Justice.
The former custos is survived by three children, Peter John, Flavia Gordon-Gunter and Angella, as well as wife Ellonia.