Island gives Jean-Luc a fond farewell
MARIGOT--The late Territorial and Executive Councillor Jean-Luc Hamlet was laid to rest yesterday during an emotionally charged funeral ceremony that was underscored by a massive outpouring of sympathy for the bereaved family from the island population.
Jean-Luc (47) died April 14 while in the prime of life after losing a long battle against cancer. He leaves behind his widow Marie-Georges Hamlet, his children Christelle, Jean-Sébastien, John-Lloyd, and Jordane, as well as his brother Jacques and four sisters.
It was arguably one of the biggest funerals to take place on the French side, with hundreds of people cramming the foyer of the Hotel de la Collectivité to pay their respects, and again at the Catholic Church which was full to capacity, leaving standing room only.
Leading the mourners from the Dutch side were Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards and Leader of Government Sarah Wescot-Williams. Also seen at the ceremonies were Commissioner of Public Works Theo Heyliger, People’s Progressive Alliance (PPA) leader Gracita Arrindell, former commissioner Michael Ferrier and Princess Juliana International Airport President Eugene Holiday.
Scores of mourners stood outside in Rue de L’Eglise and even in Rue de la République listening to the church service, which was broadcast over loudspeakers, a testament to the politician’s popularity.
The coffin had been taken to Hotel de la Collectivité earlier in the morning to lie in state, where many persons offered condolences to Jean-Luc‘s family. Also present were Jean-Luc’s mother and father, Julie and Louie Hamlet.
Wescot-Williams was one of the early arrivals, joined by Member of Parliament Erno Labega, French-side/Dutch-side coordinator Marcel Gumbs, and representatives of the Dutch-side tourism office. All signed the condolences book.
Various tributes were paid by elected officials, some of Jean-Luc’s favourite songs were sung, and a video clip shown.
President of the Collectivité Louis-Constant Fleming said Jean-Luc had fought for a better St. Martin and had worked with conviction, courage, and determination.
“He was dedicated to public service. His passing is going to affect everyone who knew him and worked with him. It is a void that is impossible to fill,” said Fleming.
Commented Opposition Leader Alain Richardson: “Jean-Luc left us while in his contributive age, in the prime of his capacity, and in the prime of his desire to serve. We have lost, and will truly miss, a most valuable St. Martiner.”
Other tributes were paid by Vice President Daniel Gibbs, Territorial Councillors Noreen Brooks and Guillaume Arnell, UPP party President Frantz Gumbs, Daniel Gumbs, Head of the Culture Department Nicole Piper, and Business Association President Paul Whit.
Arnell described Jean-Luc as “a man of action, a man of the heart” while Gumbs recalled Jean-Luc’s dedication to his medical profession.
“Jean-Luc always stuck to his shifts at the hospital, but even when it wasn’t his shift he would be there. That was the man he was, always looking to serve the interests of others,” Gumbs said.
Piper described him as a man of the people who had regarded everyone on the same level and who had never felt too high to join in with Carnival or parties.
More tributes were paid at the church service where mourners viewed the body for the last time. Visiting Government dignitaries who gave addresses included Anguilla’s Chief Minister Osbourne Fleming and President of Guadeloupe’s Regional Council Victorin Lurel.
Former mayor Albert Fleming gave a very brief tribute, focusing more on asking the population to give support to the family and children at such a difficult time.
Osbourne Fleming said the family could take comfort in knowing that Jean-Luc had gone “into the trenches” to provide a better life for children and better medical care. “The evidence is here today, that the people respected what he did,” said Fleming.
Lt. Governor Franklyn Richards said Jean-Luc had been a devoted representative of his people and commended his leadership talents, contributions to the change of status, and clear cut convictions on many issues. “He had a natural sociability, making no distinction of class, creed, colour, or nationality. He transmitted a joy for life everywhere he went.”
Wescot-Williams paid tribute to Jean-Luc’s “remarkable courage and optimism” during his time of suffering. “We would often discuss matters affecting both sides, and he shared a great concern for young people, and the violence that often raised its head,” she recalled. “But it must be a consolation to you that he was loved by the entire community. He touched many lives and his memories will always be precious to you.”
Other speakers included Préfet Délégué Dominique Lacroix and Director of the Hospital Pierre Nuty.
In an emotional statement touching on the fragility of life and sibling relationships, Jean-Luc’s brother Jacques “Billy D” Hamlet thanked everyone for attending the funeral.
His sister Janine Hamlet, who gave the eulogy, ended her address with a play on words relating to Jean-Luc’s party “Réussir Saint-Martin.” “From what we see today we can say that Jean-Luc “Il a réussit” (he has succeeded),” she said.
