Omar Wilson (at far left), husband of the late Alsion Marie Roach Wilson, consul general of Jamaica to New York, along with members of the family and the large congregation. PHOTOS BY DERRICK A. SCOTT the Jamaica Independence Gala, transforming it into a premier New York celebration of national pride and philanthropy. The service of thanksgiving was officiated by The Rev Lester Taylor, Bishop Dr Cecil Riley and the Rev Dr Griffiths. A moving musical tribute was rendered by Grammy award winner Gramps Morgan, who performed People Like You, offering comfort and celebration of Wilson’s life and legacy. The celebration thanksgiving service was attended by an eminent gathering including Jamaica’s Ambassador to the United States, Retired Major General Antony Anderson, United States Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke, who delivered a heartfelt tribute, and State Minister Delano Seivewright, minister of state in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce. EXTENSIVE CHARITABLE WORK Jeremiah Hyacinth, chair of the CARICOM Consular Corps, also paid tribute to the late consul general. Christopher Benjamin, community relations officer at the consulate, offered remarks on behalf of the Consulate’s staff, honouring Mrs Wilson’s dedication and service. Touching tributes came from her daughter, Vanessa, and from Shaune Brown, who delivered on behalf of her husband Omar, and son Brian, which celebrated her life as a devoted wife, mother, and servant of Jamaica. Business leaders from New York’s financial sector, members of the Jamaican diplomatic service in the US, including Ambassador Brian Wallace, Jamaica’s permanent representative to the United Nations (UN), Consul General at Miami, Oliver Mair, honorary consuls, members of the Jamaican Embassy and Permanent Missions to the Organization of American States and UN and numerous members of the Jamaican diaspora community were also present. “She gave more than she took,”Prime Minister Holness reflected, noting her extensive charitable work and her commitment to strengthening the bonds between Jamaica and its diaspora. “Her passing leaves a void in our hearts, but also a legacy of devotion, patriotism, and excellence that will continue to inspire all who knew her.” Roach Wilson is survived by her husband, Omar, and children Brian, Vanessa, and Patrick. 5 DELIVERING THE CONSUL-GENERAL’s NATIONAL AWARD – Jamaica’s Prime Minister, Dr. Andrew Holness (second from left) presents the Order of Distinction (Commander Class) insignia to Alsion Wilson’s husband, Omar (right) at the celebration of life service held at the Community Baptist Church of Englewood, New Jersey, on Friday December 5, 2025. Looking on (from left) are; United States Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke and Senator Kamina Johnson Smith, minister of foreign affairs and foreign trade. The late Jamaican Consul-General to New York had been conferred with this honour earlier this year in recognition of her outstanding contributions to Jamaica’s national development in education, technology, and healthcare capacity-building, but was unable to be in Jamaica to accept the award in October because of her illness. TRIBUTE Continued from, P3 Senator Kamina Johnson Smith, minister of foreign affairs and foreign trade of Jamaica, delivers a heartfelt tribute. THE WEEKLY GLEANER | DECEMBER 11, 2025 - JANUARY 7, 2026 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | FEATURE Do you want to assist family or friends to migrate to Canada but don’t know where to start? Are you a Spouse/Parent or Child in Canada – find out if you can Sponsor family. If you are in Canada on a Work or Student Permit, find out how to qualify for Permanent Residency. Are you outside Canada, and want to find out your options for migrating to Canada? Then contact our office to find out your options. We advise and assist with Canadian Immigration applications only. Please note that we are not a Placement Agency. Nadine Mahabeer is a Licensed Immigration Consultant, with over 22 years of Experience, and is a Weekly Guest on “Immigration Mondays” @ 9:00am on Nationwide 90FM. Consultations may be done via Zoom, Telephone or WhatsApp. Please call or e-mail to get the details for a consultation.
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