‘Auntie Brenda’ loved to serve

Following is the eulogy for Brenda Gill who died July 5, 2021,

written by her sister Carol Gill.

Brenda Catherine Gill was born on May 30, 1940, to George Lenard Gill and Carmen Lowry Gill. She was the seventh of their children.

Brenda’s early education was at San Juan Government Primary School. She then went on to Progressive Secondary School and Johnson’s Commercial Institute.

She was employed for many years at Stephens & Johnsons/Ross Drugs and when the firm closed, she moved on to American Life and General Insurance Company (ALGICO).

When her mother Carmen became ill, she left her job at ALGICO to take care of her full time until her mother’s passing.

All her siblings migrated to the United States, but Brenda stayed in Trinidad. She visited her overseas family often and was elated and excited when family members visited. She was the quintessential hostess, and everyone enjoyed their time with her.

She loved celebrations and took every opportunity to celebrate with everyone. She made you smile with her infectious laugh.

Brenda was never married nor had children of her own, but when her late sister gave birth to her son Marcus, Brenda became his second mother. When Diana passed away, Marcus came to live with Brenda, and she raised him as her own. She also helped raise her niece Valarie and nephews Gerard, Roger, and Ronald. She was also ‘Auntie Brenda’ to the neighbourhood children especially Usha, Alexia and D’javan and was much loved and respected by them.

Brenda was very caring and compassionate in her community. This led her to become a member of the Trinidad and Tobago Red Cross. She later joined the St Vincent de Paul Society and was also Chairperson of the San Juan branch of The Child Welfare League. She was the chief organiser of their annual fundraising tea party as well as their other events.

She also worked with the Zion RC Community at Gethsemane House and was well loved by the members of that Community.

Illness brought an end to her activities and eventually she had to be placed in the St Peter’s Home, Mt St Benedict where she lived her remaining years. It is comforting to know that she lived in that beautiful, serene, and caring environment where she was well cared for and happy.

Brenda has gone to meet her God, leaving us to mourn and celebrate a life well lived.

Rest in peace, Auntie Brenda, till we meet again. You will live forever in our hearts.