Serious Offences, Kingstown Magistrate’s Court in sombre mood as Cumberbatch passes

A sombre mood engulfed the Serious Offences and the Kingstown Magisrate’s Court earlier this week, as co-workers of the late Elvis Cumberbatch tried to come to grips with his sudden passing.{{more}}

Cumberbatch died on Thursday, April 14, after a long battle with illness. He was 39 years old.

Cumberbatch, who was attached to the courts as a clerk since October 7, 2002, was described by his colleagues as a man who was always ready to lend a helping hand.

Neville Gaymes, Senior Executive Officer/Court Administrator, said they are still trying to stay strong after losing a great friend.

“Everyone is disheartened at what happened; It was so sudden,” he said.

Describing the Belair resident as a reliable person who always remained positive on a dull day, Gaymes recalled that Cumberbatch’s health had deteriorated in the past two years, which saw him being admitted to the hospital on two occasions.

“We were always wondering if we would see him again, but he managed to bounce back. We miss him very much,” Gaymes added.

Dulsy Durrant, Court clerk, who found it hard to speak about her friend’s passing, said that Cumberbatch was an “exceptional individual who placed people before himself.”

Co-worker Glenda Abraham said she only has fond memories of Cumberbatch, whom she said always managed to put a smile of people’s faces.

The desk where Cumberbatch used to sit was decorated with flowers, candles and photographs of him in happier times.

Cosmore Shallow, Executive Officer of the Magistrate’s Court, echoed the sentiments of others and said Cumberbatch was irreplaceable. “I lost my best worker. For the six years I’m here, I never saw that man with a frown on his face. You could always guarantee that Elvis went the extra mile for people,” he said.

Cumberbatch was laid to rest on Wednesday, April 20 at the Belair Cemetery.