Former GG and dedicated humanitarian laid to rest

former Governor General (GG) Sir Frederick Nathaniel Ballantyne

Buried on Wednesday, January 29 in a breadfruit wood coffin, a symbol of his humility, former Governor General (GG) Sir Frederick Nathaniel Ballantyne has been described as a man of love.

In his tribute to his father, son Marcus Ballantyne said that the man who most people knew as the GG, lived his life in love.

Sir Frederick’s widow, Sally-Ann Lady Ballantyne hugs her daughter Emma at the graveside of Sir Frederick. At right holding a rose is Adam, son of Sir Frederick and Lady Ballantyne.

“Love’s genesis is in God and whoever lives in love, lives in God. Jesus Christ the Almighty God himself said that the greatest commandments are to love God and love your neighbor as yourself.

“Our father…his life exemplified love. He was a humble man who loved his family, who loved people, who loved humanity, who loved his country. Indeed, he was a dedicated humanitarian,” the younger Ballantyne told mourners at a packed Methodist Church in Kingstown Wednesday during his father’s state funeral.

Ballantyne said that as a physician, Sir Frederick impacted the lives of numerous people.

“Some of you here may have been touched by his practice, some of you may have been healed by his practice, some of you here may have even been saved by his practice. Our father was passionate about medicine, helping to heal the sick and bringing comfort to the suffering,” he told dignitaries, other family members and persons from all walks of life who had gathered at the church for the funeral service.

He noted that his father was instrumental in creating a volunteer program where doctors in almost every medical field have provided free services to the people of St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) for over 30 years and introducing the World Pediatric Project (WPP) to SVG, allowing children both locally and regionally to access free critical care not otherwise available, and expanding immunization programmes to ensure all school children are vaccinated.

“In 2013, our father’s endeavors were recognized by his Alma Mater, Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, New York, who honored him with a humanitarian award,” said Ballantyne who added that despite being honored, Sir Frederick never sought recognition for his work.

“Instead, with humility, he lauded the colleagues and employees who worked with him, the family members who supported him, the members of government who embraced his causes, and the doctors who selflessly contributed to his humanitarian efforts”.

Two of Sir Frederick’s sons paying a tribute to their father. From left James Walker-Ballantyne and Marcus Ballantyne.

The former GG’s son said that from his father’s humble beginnings in Layou, to his ascension as Governor General and even unto death, Sir Frederick lived a life of humility, as is seen in his wish to be buried in a simple coffin made of breadfruit wood.

Another of Sir Frederick’s sons, James Walker-Ballantyne, said his father had a unique ability to uplift others and help the less fortunate.

“He could see potential in others and propel them to excel. Many of you know our father was an avid sailor and fisherman; he loved the sea. And, he embraced others who had similar interests,” said Walker-Ballantyne.

He added that his father wanted his children to excel as he believed that education was paramount.

“Dad believed education was critical to establishing a foundation for self-sustainability and success. He not only educated all of his children, and continues to do so, but he selflessly facilitated the education of many others, quietly, from his personal resources,” revealed Walker-Ballantyne.

He added, “our father lived an extraordinary life, yet he did so with love for others and in humility. He was always working to better himself and those around him.

“He always wanted everyone to live their best lives ever. And he certainly lived his best life ever. Anyone who knew our father or who has been close to dad has heard these words, ‘don’t address your mind to that’.

“He always had a plan for everything and didn’t want anyone to worry. If he were speaking to you today, my father would say, ‘don’t address your mind to the fact that I am gone. I am now in a better place. I have left this sojourn but my legacy of love for humanity will endure through my children, my family, my friends, and my people, the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines’.”

The funeral also heard from one of Sir Frederick’s daughter’s, Beth Satchell who rendered the song ‘His Eye is on the Sparrow’.

Son and daughter Adam Ballantyne and Loren McIntosh respectively as well as family friend ,Dr Drew Clare, did the scripture readings.

The homily was done by friend and Methodist Lay Preacher, Monty Maule, while Superintendent Minister, Reverend Adolf Davis, presided. Prime Minister, Dr Ralph Gonsalves paid tribute on behalf of the people of SVG.

Sir Frederick was Governor-General from September 2002 to July 31, 2019, the country’s longest-serving Head of State. He was succeeded by Susan Dougan, on August 1, 2019 and died last week Thursday, January 23 at his home.