Goodbye, Brother Tyrone Mitchell

27.MAY.11

Editor: While some heretical followers awaited Judgement Day last weekend, many local Seventh Day Adventists were celebrating the life of Tyrone Mitchell, an angel who lived among us. His funeral service, held at the Colonaire SDA Church, occasioned a glowing tribute to an exceptional human being.{{more}} Indeed, Tyrone’s death has left a great vacuum in the SDA church, especially among the youths who he mentored with distinction. This multi-talented servant of God was distinguished mainly through his musical acumen with which he tutored scores of musicians into playing either the guitar or the keyboard. Protégés like Che Browne, Clayton Jackson, Orlando Luke and Colin Nickie are living proof of his tutelage.

Brother Mitchell was a prolific songwriter, as is testament in his compilation of over fifty gospel releases. His music is well loved and serves as a source of inspiration throughout the Christian (mainly SDA) community. Here is a man who has truly fulfilled his purpose in life by empowering others and using his talents for God. As a gifted songster and a lover of music, it is fitting that he drifted into his celestial sunset performing at a live concert!

In an era when positive role models and holistic values have been experiencing diminishing returns, our society screams for guidance. That is why I was fortunate to have been mentored by Brother Mitchell, having come under his direct influence as a newly converted Adventist Christian two decades ago. His infectious Christian qualities magnetised me towards him – I took an instant liking to him and his compassionate way of dealing with people. Sabbaths were very special at the Mitchells who selflessly shared their homes with many (including me). This gesture of humanity permeated an ambience of heavenly communion among us.

The tentacles of Tyrone’s outreach transcend religious and demographic barriers, as was reflected in the innovative way in which he utilized his office as First Elder to accommodate the Colonaire community in some of the most memorable socials and sporting events. Ring games were so much fun as young and old relived an integrated aspect of the village culture. Under Tyrone’s tenure, young people enjoyed a period of free expression and unrestricted personal and spiritual growth. Having had the opportunity on a few occasions, I can attest that not many persons can make going to the mountains as much fun as Tyrone was able to do through his bubbly and delectable personality.

Brother Mitchell was small in stature but a community giant and a walking encyclopedia, imparting knowledge,

giving friendly advice and encouragement during his daily sojourns. He was also a shrewd mediator who often quelled disputes with humility and tact. Sister Rosalind was privileged to have such a wonderful human being as her soul-mate; so, too, were his two children, Avedonn and Aneisha, who were lavished with fatherly love. I have no doubt that nature predisposed his and my paths to inter-wine when they did. That’s why I am eternally grateful to God for having chosen Tyrone to guide and help me negotiate a turbulent period in my life. I doubt whether my controversial and confrontational nature would have germinated and blossomed had I been shepherded by more mentors of Tyrone’s persuasion.

I extend condolences to the Mitchell family, and heartfelt sympathy to the extended Seventh Day Adventist family. Let these beautiful words from Pastor Dermoth Baptiste comfort your saddened hearts; “When someone you love dies, he becomes a memory. As the years pass by, let that memory become a treasure.”

Do cherish it.

Collin CA$H Haywood