Political leaders, family, friends and supporters gathered Tuesday to pay final tribute to former Senator Cheryl Mary-Clare Hurst, whose funeral service celebrated decades of dedication to Antigua and Barbuda, the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party, and the advancement of youth and women in public life. According to Antigua News Room, the service drew an assembly that reflected the breadth of her influence.
The ceremony, held at SJPC House of Restoration Ministries, was attended by Governor General Sir Rodney Williams, Prime Minister Gaston Browne, Cabinet ministers, parliamentarians, diplomats and members of the general public.
Speakers throughout the service reflected on Hurst's distinguished record as a former senator, Minister of State, Leader of Government Business in the Senate, and the first female General Secretary of the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party. Tributes consistently described her as a woman whose influence reached well beyond the halls of government.
Dr. Oswald Thomas recalled that Hurst once declined an opportunity that could have made her the first woman elected to Parliament, choosing instead to support the political advancement of Gaston Browne. Speakers noted she remained steadfast in her loyalty to the Labour Party throughout her life, repeatedly rejecting overtures from other political movements.
Friends and colleagues spoke warmly of her personal devotion to those around her. One longtime friend recounted how Hurst remained by her side during the illness and eventual death of her son, even leaving a Senate sitting to attend the funeral in New York.
Several tributes highlighted her passionate advocacy for young people and women. Hurst, speakers said, consistently sought out opportunities for youth, mentoring emerging leaders and encouraging women to assume greater roles in public life.
Gregory Georges, speaking on behalf of the West Indies Oil Company, described Hurst as a fair-minded leader who balanced institutional responsibilities with a firm commitment to the national interest. He recalled her readiness to intervene in disputes between organisations and her persistent efforts to open doors for young people.
"She was relentless in her passion for helping young people," Georges said, adding that she remained positive and engaged even while confronting serious health challenges.
A written tribute from Archdeacon Franklin Reid described Hurst as a "beloved servant of the people" whose voice consistently championed justice, equality and opportunity. The tribute praised her integrity, compassion and rare ability to make those around her feel valued.
The Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party Choir also paid tribute, honouring Hurst's role in establishing the group and her enduring commitment to the party's principles. Choir members remembered her as a guiding presence who frequently led musical tributes at public events.
The service featured musical selections from the Antigua Community Players, the Labour Party Choir, steelpan performances and worship songs, reflecting Hurst's lifelong involvement in culture and community.
Church leaders, in their opening remarks, described Hurst as a woman whose life was dedicated to service and whose contributions would remain etched in the nation's memory. The congregation was reminded that the occasion was not solely one of mourning, but a celebration of a life that touched countless people.
Hurst was remembered as a champion of youth development, women's empowerment, community service and national progress. Speakers urged those she mentored to carry forward the work she began. Her legacy, tributes noted, endures in the many lives she shaped, the institutions she helped strengthen and the opportunities she created for generations to come.
