A tribute to my Uncle Buster
Upon careful reflection on his life and legacy, I’ve come to realize how my dear Uncle Buster was more than a devoted and loving husband – more than a father, brother, uncle, granddad or great-granddad to his family. To many in his family, his friends and among his community, he was and always will be a source of strength, an inspiration, and a man of respect.
As I listened to the stories of his youth, it was evident to me that, no matter how he started out in life, Buster’s destiny was to take him far from Jamaica in order to build a good life and a wonderful family overseas. His experiences serve as my inspiration, giving me hope and perspective as I chart a similar path far from where I started. His example shows what can be achieved by living a wholesome life. His journey exemplifies what it means to have a positive impact within a community, irrespective of the station one holds.
Never one to boast, Buster was strong, resilient, humble and kind. But he was also the irrepressible comic, who had the uncanny knack of making you smile without saying a word. I admired him for how he could quietly observe and make sense of all that was happening around him. Because of this, Buster’s advice was always sincere and you just knew that it came from a heart of love.
To me, Buster embodied what it means to be righteous, for your life’s work to mean something.
“the just man walketh in his integrity: his children are blessed after him”
Proverbs 20 verse 7
Uncle Buster, thank you for your encouraging words, your warmth and for being a gentle giant to so many. Even in the silence, your presence is still felt. This world has truly lost a sweet soul, but your life has truly been a blessing to us all. Though we are comforted as your light continues to shine and your memory will always be in our hearts, we’ll miss you dearly.
Be at peace, until we meet again.
Your loving niece, Heidi
Heidi Duffy
03/12/2020
