Tears flow

Grieving mother Jovona Barrow bowed her head as she knelt beside the tiny white caskets of her children, Riordan and Reya-Anna, yesterday.

With the same reverence, she did the same at the much larger wooden coffin of her late husband Corelius Barrow, which was sandwiched between the two infants at the altar of Sanctuary Empowerment Centre, Country Road, St Michael.

This was one of the most emotional acts displayed at the funeral of Corelius, or “Cori”, 42, Riordan 22 months, and eight-month-old Reya-Anna who died together on July 24.

They all perished in a fire at their Regency Drive, Warrens Park South, St Michael home; but an autopsy later revealed the children died before the blaze destroyed the home.

The incident made headlines as many Barbadians referenced a number of posts the father of two made days before his death on Facebook where he detailed the couple’s custody battle.

Yesterday’s service, however, was peaceful as police officers directed mourners into the centre, including representatives of PAREDOS Daycare and students of Coleridge & Parry School, where Corelius taught. (TG)

Subscribe now to our eNATION edition for the full story.

For the latest stories and breaking news updates download the Nationnews apps for iOS and Android.

Despite tears, Jovona Barrow (second from right) worshipped during the funeral service of her late husband and children. She was supported by (from left) father Shawn Johnson, twin sister Jovana Johnson and mother Jennifer Johnson.