Former Senator Mary-Clare Hurst Laid To Rest

Nation Pays Final Tribute to Former Senator Mary-Clare Hurst

Political leaders, family members, friends and supporters gathered on Tuesday to celebrate the life and legacy of former Senator Cheryl Mary-Clare Hurst, whose official funeral drew tributes highlighting her decades of service to Antigua and Barbuda, unwavering loyalty to the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party, and commitment to youth and community development.

The service, held at SJPC House of Restoration Ministries, was attended by Governor General Sir Rodney Williams, Prime Minister Gaston Browne, Cabinet ministers, parliamentarians, diplomats and members of the public.

Throughout the ceremony, speakers reflected on Hurst’s impact as a former senator, Minister of State, Leader of Government Business in the Senate, and the first female General Secretary of the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party. Tributes consistently described her as a woman whose influence extended well beyond politics.

The tribute by Dr Oswald Thomas recalled that Hurst once declined an opportunity that could have made her the first woman elected to Parliament, choosing instead to support the political advancement of Gaston Browne. Speakers said she remained steadfast in her loyalty to the Labour Party throughout her life and repeatedly rejected opportunities to join other political movements.

Friends and colleagues spoke of her generosity and personal devotion to those around her. One longtime friend recounted how Hurst remained at her side during the illness and eventual death of her son, even leaving a Senate sitting to attend the funeral in New York.

Several tributes highlighted her advocacy for young people and women. Speakers said Hurst consistently sought opportunities for youth, mentoring emerging leaders and encouraging women to take on greater leadership roles in public life.

Gregory Georges, speaking on behalf of the West Indies Oil Company, described Hurst as a fair-minded leader who balanced institutional responsibilities with a strong commitment to the national interest. He recalled her willingness to intervene when disputes arose between organizations and her persistence in advocating for opportunities for young people.

“She was relentless in her passion for helping young people,” Georges said, adding that she remained positive and engaged even while facing serious health challenges.

A written tribute from Archdeacon Franklin Reid described Hurst as a “beloved servant of the people” whose voice consistently advocated for justice, equality and opportunity. The tribute praised her integrity, compassion and ability to make others feel valued and appreciated.

The Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party Choir also paid tribute, noting Hurst’s role in establishing the group and her enduring commitment to the party’s principles. Choir members remembered her as a guiding presence who frequently led musical tributes at public events.

The service featured musical selections from the Antigua Community Players, the Labour Party Choir, steelpan performances and worship songs, reflecting Hurst’s longstanding involvement in culture and community activities.

In opening remarks, church leaders described Hurst as a woman whose life was dedicated to service and whose contributions would remain etched in the nation’s memory. The congregation was reminded that the occasion was not only one of mourning but also a celebration of a life that touched countless people.

Hurst was remembered as a champion of youth development, women’s empowerment, community service and national progress, with speakers urging those she mentored to continue the work she began.

Her legacy, tributes noted, lives on in the many lives she influenced, the institutions she helped strengthen and the opportunities she created for future generations.

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