by Ken Wyllie – (USA) 12.MAR.10

I was saddened by the news of the passing of Mr Alvis Cox of Troumaca (formerly of Couls Hill).

It was also disturbing to learn what his last days were like.{{more}}

I knew him from childhood and he, like so many others, was an extremely hard-working man.

Those were the times when Agriculture was ahead of tourism as the backbone of the economy of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

“Ali”, as he was affectionately called, was a dedicated farmer who understood the importance of his job. He never seemed to lack the strength and spirit to go on. Along with that, he found the time to help his neighbours.

He loved people!

What a fine example he was to the younger men around him! Cox helped to raise many children, many of them not even his own, and some of them chose to turn their backs on him yet he remained the same kind man with a trademark smile.

Even at the end, of other people’s lives he had an assignment.

He was a gravedigger.

The last time I saw Cox was during my last visit to St. Vincent and the Grenadines two years ago. I enjoyed every minute of it and will always treasure those moments. I regret not being there to say “Goodbye”.

Many persons like myself will remember him fondly, and those who choose to forget him after benefiting from his kindness must hang their heads in shame.

My community has lost a hero and I wish him peace in his eternal rest.