MESSAGES OF SYMPATHY poured in from online readers for the family and friends of two Barbadians who died last week.
On Thursday, well-known farmer and talk show contributor Vincent Layne was found dead in his car at Bushy Park, St Philip. He had been reported missing earlier by the police. The following day, Dwight Holder, a 30-year-old primary school teacher, was killed in the crossfire between two rival groups while visiting family in Bush Hall, St Michael.
Several readers also lamented the gun problems which persist in Barbados.
For Vincent Layne:
Gibson Jethro: Mr Vincent Layne was a very outspoken person who fearlessly defended various opinions on the numerous issues in our society. He would best be remembered as the best sheep farmer on the island. May he find rest now in the arms of Jesus.
Lana Moseley: Wow. Feels unreal. Condolences to his family and friends. In this life there are some persons who truly suffer tremendous amounts of pain and loss. May comfort swiftly find those who grieve. RIP, Mr Layne.
Ryan Rowe: Rest in peace, Mr Layne. I will surely miss your voice on Brass Tacks for your knowledge that you shared with us. Also my condolences go out to your family and friends.
Thelma Jean Jackman-Forde: So very sad. Grew up in Brereton with him and he was a very ambitious man and a dear friend.
Angela Thompson: RIP. He touched the souls of anyone who met him.
Jerry Amos: RIP, Vincent, gone too soon with a wealth of knowledge. A kind gentleman that said what he meant and meant what he said. My condolences to his wife and family.
For Dwight Holder:
Cheryl Stuart: I am so very sorry to hear of Mr Holder’s death. To his mother, I am in agony with you. My son also died in similar circumstances. I worked with Dwight and he was always pleasant and helpful. I saw him operating as a great role model to young children especially the boys.
Steve Barker: Broke my heart; someone contributing meaningfully to the lives of young ones gone to senseless use of a gun.
Barry Prescod: My condolences to the family. From schooldays he was a cool guy – definitely taken too soon. I only pray that those responsible and others in similar positions understand the weight and full consequence of their actions.
Andrea Tull Baptiste: It is a travesty to hear of young men murdering the innocent. One can only imagine what it is like now for his family and friends. It’s also a school that will be deprived of a young male teacher who had the opportunity to be a fine example to his charges.
Michelle Mitchell: I just can’t believe it. Just last week I meet him, beautiful young man. My condolences to the family and the teaching fraternity.
Baj Beau: Sigh!!! May his family and colleagues and students find comfort in Jesus at this time. So young; gone too soon!!
• Sherrylyn Toppin is The Nation’s Online Editor.
