Governor General, PM, join scores at Service of Thanksgiving for the late Josephine Astaphan

Josephine Augusta Sahely-Astaphan

BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, MARCH 21ST 2011 (CUOPM) – St. Kitts and Nevis’ Governor General, His Excellency Dr. Sir Cuthbert Sebastian and Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Denzil L. Douglas joined scores of mourners at a Service of Thanksgiving for the Life of well-known businesswoman Josephine Augusta Sahely-Astaphan.

The Service at the St. George’s Parish Church on Saturday 19th March was also attended by the Chief Minister of Anguilla, the Hon. Hubert Hughes; Senior Minister and Minister of Agriculture, Dr. the Hon. Timothy Harris; Minister of Public Works, Hon. Dr. Earl Asim Martin; Minister of Health, Hon. Marcella Liburd; Speaker of the National Assembly, the Hon. Curtis Martin and persons from all walks of life including the business and professional communities.

The Service, which was conducted by the Venerable Archdeacon Valentine Hodge, included tributes by granddaughter Lana Kelsick-Mc Master, Cuthbert Woods and Joan Millard. The eulogy was delivered by one of her sons, Mr. G.A. Dwyer Astaphan.

Ms. Charlotte Salter and Mrs. Agatha James-Vendries read the First and Second Readings respectively, each followed by a moment of silence.

Archdeacon Hodge delivered the Sermonette.

The Catholic Youth Choir rendered two selections and Mr. Larry Vaughan, a solo.

Mrs. Astaphan died in Canada at age 90. The body was cremated in accordance with her wish. Saturday’s service was held on her 91st birthday.

She is survived by 11 children, several grandchildren, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.